Home automation is the exploding category of devices that connect to the Internet and allow you to control them remotely. It is the foundation of a smart home and provides the ability to do things like monitor your house’s security, turn on lights randomly when you are not at home so it looks like someone is there, and even lower energy bills with LED smart lighting and connected irrigation timers.
Many people invest in home automation for the convenience and peace of mind that it offers. After all, how many times have you left for work and walked out the door only to realize that you forgot to lock it? Through the use of smart locks, you can quickly check that your home is secure and prevent intruders from entering. You can also let in a neighbor to water the plants or feed the dog when you are on vacation without leaving a physical key that could be stolen.
A good home automation system will let you create a comfortable living space by preprogramming your thermostat to the preferred temperature, enabling you to play music throughout the home at the same time and adjusting your lighting to dim or brighten based on the time of day. Some systems can also be used to record shows or to play back audio from a smart speaker, making your home a welcoming place for guests and friends when you are not there.
The most important feature that home automation offers is peace of mind. For those who have busy lives and tend to forget things, this technology can be a real life saver. It can also help those with limited mobility and those who struggle with memory recall to get around the house more easily. For new parents, a smart device that can automatically record video or play soothing sounds can be an invaluable tool to keep their young ones safe and sound.
Home automation reviews can help you decide which system is best for your needs. Consider the features of each system and its compatibility with other smart home devices. For example, if you have an iPhone or iPad, it is important that the system you choose supports Apple HomeKit. This will give you the ability to control your system through the home app on your iOS device. However, the home app has minor usability issues and is unable to manage certain devices as well as dedicated apps can.
Another option is to look for open-source software for your smart home. One popular solution is Home Assistant, which runs locally rather than in the cloud and allows you to run it on Windows, Linux, ODROID, or the Raspberry Pi. This makes it snappier and more responsive than some other home automation systems, but it also requires a little technical know-how to set up. However, it is an excellent choice for those who are looking to minimize the cost of their smart home setup.