Technology has advanced dramatically, and it’s been moving into the home in new ways. While some form of home automation has been around since the 1930s, there’s no doubting that it’s become more advanced in recent years.
Because of that, you may not know where to start when it comes to automating your home. Possibilities are plentiful, so we’re narrowing it down to the top 10 ways to get the automation process started.
1) Lights
At the end of a long day, playing “you’re it!” when it comes to turning off the lights at night is kind of a pain. The solution to this age-old problem started with The Clapper and has since conveniently moved to your cell phone.
Set mood lighting and check to see if you forgot to shut off your bathroom light from a smart phone app without having to leave bed (or the couch, if it’s movie night)!
2) Smart Thermostats
Credit: designmilk
Now, these are cool (no pun intended). Not only can you control temperature remotely from a smart phone app, but you can program the thermostats to rise and lower throughout the day.
You can also program them to turn off when you leave the house for an extended amount of time, like work or vacation, and either program them or use your app to turn the system back on with enough time to regulate the temperature before you get back home.
Also, see what you’re saving on bills via a web or mobile app and make adjustments to save even more!
3)Feed Pets
You can now buy pet food dispensers and program what time of day your pet(s) get fed. You can either invest in a machine that dispenses food or reveals it per your timing specifications.
While your pet still might pester you for food between feedings, you can be rest assured that, when the time is right, food will be readily available to your furry friend.
4) Blinds
Struggling to adjust the blinds on high up windows? Smart blinds are a great solution! These can be installed on any window and, you guessed it, controlled by an app.
Control your blinds manually or program them to adjust at specific times throughout the day.
5) Coffee Makers
The announcement of the coffee alarm clock made many coffee lovers jump with joy at the idea of waking up to coffee right there next to you, ready to drink. If you’re like me though, your first thought might be of sleepily reaching over to turn off the alarm and burning your hand and staining the carpet.
6) Home Entertainment
Lost your remote again? Control your television and volume from your phone!
Remote controllers will allow you to program when your TV records your favorite shows and manage those recordings remotely.
7) Home Security
Manage your locks while you’re away from home and check your security cameras, all from your smart phone or tablet.
Locks can be placed over deadbolts and controlled remotely, whether you forgot to lock them or want to let someone in without going to the door. Both indoor and outdoor cameras are available with apps that will send you alerts and let you view what is happening at home.
8) Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detection
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can now speak to you, letting you know where the source of a problem is coming from and the level of danger. Some even alert you to fires in the neighborhood.
You can also monitor the systems remotely and see past results, making your more aware of your safety at home.
9) Home Appliances
Need to increase or decrease your oven temperature for a fancy cooking/baking dish? Do it from your smart device without leaving your backyard hammock.
You can also invest in a programmable vacuum that can be timed to get the cleaning done while you’re not home.
10) Voice Control
You can dive even further into the high-tech realm by setting up voice command around your house. Tell your lights to turn on and off, your TV to change channels, and more.
Just… make sure to speak clearly and avoid having to yell at your devices. They’ll appreciate it.
