How to Start to Make Your Home Smart
A smart device is a gadget that can be controlled via an app. A smart home contains multiple smart devices that can be controlled remotely or automatically (based on your settings).
If you want to make your home smart, start with one or two smart devices that can make the most difference in your life. Below we’ll show you how smart home systems can be set up and different options you have available to you.
Smart Home Hub
In most cases, all you need is your smartphone to control a smart device. But if you have multiple smart home devices communicating with each other, you may need a smart home hub. A central smart home hub takes care of all the communication between devices, receiving and transmitting at the same time.
Smart speakers with a digital assistant, such as Amazon Echo or Google Home, can also be set up as your smart home hub. This way, you won’t have to toggle between multiple apps on your phone. You’ll just have to say “Alexa…” or “Hey, Google…” — voice control.
Keep in mind that each digital assistant is only compatible with certain smart devices. While most major device brands work with the three main digital assistants — Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant — it’s something to be aware of. Alexa claims to work with more than 100,000 smart home devices, Google Assistant more than 10,000, and Apple’s Siri just a few hundred.
Whether it’s your phone or a separate smart home hub, a WiFi connection allows the devices to talk to each other and share information. Just make sure that your smart home hub is compatible with the smart device you are looking to add.
Smart Home Options
- Start and stop TVs, washing machines, and other appliances — all from your phone or computer.
- Smart thermostats can be remotely or automatically adjusted.
- Smart electric vehicle charging (EVC) station connects to the utility company for intelligent charging based on electricity price and grid loads.
- Control room lighting, ceiling fans, door locks, doorbells, video cameras, and even blinds and drapes (with voice control if connected to a digital assistant).
Why You Should Schedule Professional Installation
Nobody wants to deal with complicated instructions, toggling between different apps, and hours on the phone with customer support. You’ve got better things to do! Plus, you could lose your warranty.
Whether you’re connecting smart thermostats, doorbells, cameras, or lighting, hire an licensed professional to make sure everything is installed properly.
A DIY job can void the smart system or device’s warranty. Take a close look at the manufacturer’s warranty guidelines. A new thermostat installation can even void your HVAC equipment warranty!
That’s because some thermostats can actually do harm to your current HVAC system. It’s important to speak with a professional about installing a compatible thermostat that won’t damage your equipment or void your warranty.
Sometimes, a smart device isn’t so smart.
Even if your smart device doesn’t cause any damage, it may not function the way it should or provide all the benefits you expected.
Here are some other benefits of professional installation:
- Full compatibility with smart home system and devices
- Greater convenience, comfort, and control
- Expert advice and ongoing support
To get started making your home smart, contact Sobieski Services.
