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Steps to Start Transforming your House into a Smart Home
Smart homes are a new trend in the digital revolution. Rapid technological advancement has made the idea of a 'smart' home more enticing than ever.
14:34 30 December 2020
A smart home uses the latest technology and computerised automation to control some processes in a home. It’s human nature to explore different ways that can make life easier. It's not easy to cover all the benefits of home automation. From helping in the day-to-day running of activities that seek to improve the quality of life, promoting the efficient use of energy to enhancing security and entertainment.
The concept of a smart home used to be a complex endeavour often requiring professional help. Nowadays, building a smart home requires some basic DIY skills that anyone can set up. A few off-the-shelf devices can control several gadgets in a home, some using a simple voice command. These devices can communicate on a home network with other home appliances such as smart TVs, sound systems, lighting, A/C, heating just to name a few. Below are some tips that can assist one in transforming their house into a smart home;
- IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS
Automating a home comes with its fair share of pros and cons. One needs to know the exact reason for transforming their space. For instance, are you doing it to take some of the cumbersome tasks out of your hands or do you find security sensors fascinating? The rule of thumb is to start with basic devices that are easy to use, install and more affordable gadgets on the market.
- DO YOUR RESEARCH
Before jumping into anything, it's paramount to do some research. Check all your devices to make sure they are compatible with one another. Companies that offer smart home appliances such as Google, Apple and Amazon may not work together as they are competing in the same market. It's good to note that smart technology evolves every year hence it’s always good to look for the latest technology you can include in your home.
- SMART LIGHTING IS A LIFESAVER
Any standard family consumes a lot of energy doing different activities in a home. Most modern homes end up choosing between modern and contemporary lighting in an attempt to automate their space. These fixtures work with smart bulbs and switches that are great for a home as they are much cheaper and durable as compared to the rest. These bulbs emit less heat and consume less electricity which helps you save money in the long run.
- A GOOD ROUTER
In today’s society, almost all home devices are wireless. This means that the network is loaded with devices that need a strong Wi-fi. A good router helps with the smart home connection to allow multiple devices to talk to each other. For security reasons, make sure that the network you opt for is secure to ensure the privacy of data.
- CONSIDER VOICE CONTROL
Thanks to technology, the once futuristic voice control on smart devices is now a reality. Platforms such as Google and Apple are dominating the smart home industry with voice control. They offer a technology that provides one with a hands-free mode of operating electronic devices in a home. If you have a love for music, you can now turn on and off the music player with just your voice.
- USE SMART SENSORS
Gone are the days when security came with the heavy installation of alarm systems to keep a home safe. Today, one can use wireless motion sensors on windows and doors that give alerts to your smartphones in case of any movements.