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A “smart home,” by one definition, is one equipped with appliances, lighting, heating/cooling systems, television/entertainment systems, and security systems that can link to one another and be accessed remotely.
Today, consumers can choose from a number of smart home systems. They range from do-it-yourself components to those offered by companies that combine security services with home automation.
In fact, the technology itself is becoming so commonplace that most types of home appliances can now be purchased ready to connect to your home’s hub without any special tools or knowledge. You just follow the instructions provided in the owner’s manual.
Smart home systems range from a smart thermostat that learns a homeowner’s routine to optimize heating and cooling system efficiency, to complete house automation that gives remote access to appliances, security systems and other devices.
As great as the strides have been in home automation, is now the time to convert your home into a smart home? Here are pros and cons you might want to consider before deciding.
Pros
Economics: One of the biggest selling points for smart-home technology has been that, over time, it can save you vast amounts of money. Incorporating smart home components into your house can save cash not just on heating and cooling but on costs such as lighting and water usage.
Component availability: Smart home components are widely available with many choices online, in local shops and as professionally installed turnkey systems. From an entertainment center and washing machine to a coffee pot and door locks, manufacturers offer many devices to automate many systems/devices in an automated house.
Security and safety: Security and safety systems can monitor doors and windows in a home to alert you if they have been opened. These systems also can remotely monitor security cameras and allow a homeowner to unlock doors remotely (so there is no need to keep a key outside). Some systems even can turn off a water line or gas valve if they detect a leak.
Cons
Economics: Smart home components are not cheap. One major costs is the central hub that connects and oversees an entire smart home system. Smart appliances, lights, switches, and other hardware are definitely more expensive than their typical predecessors.
Smart appliances can cost 35-55% more than standard models. For example, instead of replacing a $4 light switch or electrical outlet, smart versions can cost $40, and instead of $2 light bulbs you can expect to pay $15 for a smart LED light.
Component availability: Much of the technology that is available is still in its infancy and may have some reliability issues. As manufacturers come out with newer and more refined models, it might become difficult to get support tomorrow for the appliances you purchased today. This could be especially troublesome for virus protection and firmware upgrades.
Security and safety: Smart homes typically operate on wireless networks. This means they could be subject to hacking if you do not ensure that your wireless network is secure. Change your passwords and usernames to something complex and regularly change them.
Still can’t decide? Instead of taking on an entire home system, try starting out with a smart thermostat or a convenience-oriented appliance. That experience can help you become more comfortable with the technology and evaluate how useful it is.
Today, consumers can choose from a number of smart home systems. They range from do-it-yourself components to those offered by companies that combine security services with home automation.
In fact, the technology itself is becoming so commonplace that most types of home appliances can now be purchased ready to connect to your home’s hub without any special tools or knowledge. You just follow the instructions provided in the owner’s manual.
Smart home systems range from a smart thermostat that learns a homeowner’s routine to optimize heating and cooling system efficiency, to complete house automation that gives remote access to appliances, security systems and other devices.
As great as the strides have been in home automation, is now the time to convert your home into a smart home? Here are pros and cons you might want to consider before deciding.
Pros
Economics: One of the biggest selling points for smart-home technology has been that, over time, it can save you vast amounts of money. Incorporating smart home components into your house can save cash not just on heating and cooling but on costs such as lighting and water usage.
Component availability: Smart home components are widely available with many choices online, in local shops and as professionally installed turnkey systems. From an entertainment center and washing machine to a coffee pot and door locks, manufacturers offer many devices to automate many systems/devices in an automated house.
Security and safety: Security and safety systems can monitor doors and windows in a home to alert you if they have been opened. These systems also can remotely monitor security cameras and allow a homeowner to unlock doors remotely (so there is no need to keep a key outside). Some systems even can turn off a water line or gas valve if they detect a leak.
Cons
Economics: Smart home components are not cheap. One major costs is the central hub that connects and oversees an entire smart home system. Smart appliances, lights, switches, and other hardware are definitely more expensive than their typical predecessors.
Smart appliances can cost 35-55% more than standard models. For example, instead of replacing a $4 light switch or electrical outlet, smart versions can cost $40, and instead of $2 light bulbs you can expect to pay $15 for a smart LED light.
Component availability: Much of the technology that is available is still in its infancy and may have some reliability issues. As manufacturers come out with newer and more refined models, it might become difficult to get support tomorrow for the appliances you purchased today. This could be especially troublesome for virus protection and firmware upgrades.
Security and safety: Smart homes typically operate on wireless networks. This means they could be subject to hacking if you do not ensure that your wireless network is secure. Change your passwords and usernames to something complex and regularly change them.
Still can’t decide? Instead of taking on an entire home system, try starting out with a smart thermostat or a convenience-oriented appliance. That experience can help you become more comfortable with the technology and evaluate how useful it is.
