The Jetsons’ robot maid and horizontal escalator might still be far-off pipe dreams, but the home of the future is already here. With any new home renovation, the goal is usually to add a modernizing touch through new materials and added luxuries. Current homeowners who are planning on renovating their space should also look at creating a smart home by adding some IoT devices.
Technology is seeping into every corner of people’s lives, and the home is no different. The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the way in which people interact with their space. Ordinary appliances that save time and money now provide even more new options.
Besides having control over every aspect of the house, homeowners can also use IoT for added security. But more on that later. For now, check out these amazing IoT gadgets that can add a whole new level of functionality to any home.
What is a Smart Home (Home Automation)?
It’s pretty much exactly what it sounds like – automating normal household chores and functions to save time. IoT devices connect to the internet and can function on their own with a simple voice command or button input from a central device. Depending on the setup, they can be controlled separately, with a tablet/smartphone or smart home devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home.
Smart homes are also greener and save money. For example, lights can automatically turn off if they don’t detect movement. Alerts can be set up as well, for instance, when a thermostat has been left on, or a window has been left open.
6 IoT Devices That Every Home Renovation Needs
Renovations can be costly and frustrating, but they’re well worth the eventual results. These items might add to the price, but they deliver unmatched quality of life upgrades and add a lot of value to the property.
1. Brilliant Control
The Brilliant Control wall switch can connect to various smart items located within the house via WiFi. Through it, anyone in the home can control the thermostat, lighting, music devices, and appliances. It supports Amazon Alexa and comes with a color touch screen that can also show who’s at the door (through a smart doorbell).
2. Philips Hue
The market for smart lighting is steadily growing, which means various brands are starting to push their own models. One of the best off-the-shelf brands is the Philips Hue range, which is easy to install and looks amazing.
3. Nest Learning Thermostat
The Nest Learning Thermostat differs from its predecessors by adapting to its owners’ lifestyles. After using it for a week, the thermostat will set up a schedule and automatically adjust the temperature thereafter. It also has an eco-mode that saves energy when it detects that no one is home.
4. Ring Video Doorbell Pro
The stylish Ring Video Doorbell Pro delivers a quality 1080p look into the outside world just outside the front door. Both night and day activity is recorded and can be watched live, and it offers both pre and post motion detection recording as well.
5. SimpliSafe Home Security System
Home security has gotten a nice IoT bump in these past few years as well. There are many different options out there, including professionally installed and run security systems. But the SimpliSafe home security system can be manually installed, and the monthly plan is optional.
It comes with all the proper functions people have come to expect, including letting someone monitor their house remotely via an app. This nifty system can also detect fires and floods.
6. Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
Timed sprinklers aren’t a new concept, but the Rachio 3 smart sprinkler controller automatically won’t water the lawn when it’s raining, unlike traditional sprinklers. Plus, the sprinklers in eight or sixteen zones (depending on the model) can be controlled from anywhere by using an app.
And Finally, Safety is Part of the Upgrade
Ironically, in the pursuit of automation and better home security, some people might actually be opening themselves up to even more criminals. If the digital security side of things isn’t addressed properly as well, then home automation can turn into a nightmare.
The market is flooded with new IoT brands, some of whom aren’t as adept at handling security in their devices yet. Though even the reputable brands have trouble with security bugs and holes every now and then, as the Nest camera incidents have proved.
It’s vital that homeowners set up a guest network for their IoT devices and download a VPN to secure their network. Also, manually change the login password for every device and keep their software up to date. If you are having problem setting up your smart home gadgets click here to learn more.
Adding new smart gadgets to a room or the entire house during a renovation can be exciting. But don’t get wrapped up in buying new stuff and throw caution out the window. Always keep safety in mind and remember that digital safety is just as important as physical safety in today’s world.
