Today, more homeowners are choosing to use smart technology in their homes to reduce energy consumption, save money on their utility bills, and help the environment. Often referred to as smart homes, homeowners will acquire appliances, devices, and home systems that are identified as using smart technology. A smart home allows homeowners to control a wide range of devices, appliances, and systems using a smartphone or tablet and a wireless or hardwired internet system.

How Smart Homes Work

A smart home can be controlled through one home automation system. Devices are connected with each other and can be accessed through one home automation system. These devices can include: tablet, laptop, televisions, cameras, thermostats, lights, and more. The system is installed on a mobile phone or other networked device. The homeowner is able to create time schedules for making specific adjustments such as lowering the temperature when away,

Types of Smart Technology for the Home

Smart Home Lighting

Smart home lighting allows for lighting control enabling homeowners to reduce electricity use. Lighting can be controlled away from the home through the internet using a home automation portal system. 

Smart Home Furnace

With a smart furnace, the furnace can be set to turn off and on at scheduled times, or you can use the home automation portal via the internet connection to turn it on and off. 

Smart Air Conditioner

Air conditioners can be programmed according to your preferences. These units utilize information collected to learn about your habits and lifestyle, adjusting its operation to your home and needs. It can automatically maintain the right temperature at the appropriate time, and it can be controlled and monitored from anywhere outside of the home. 

LED–Lights

LED–lights generate little to no heat so they maximize energy output. LED lights have a longer lifespan than traditional batteries.

Smart Appliances

Energy-star or smart appliances are designed to reduce energy consumption and save money on utility bills. Appliances that have the Energy Star logo use less energy. There are various smart appliances on the market, including: dishwashers, washers and dryers, refrigerators, microwave, ovens, etc. They have been thoroughly tested to verify they are more energy-efficient than the minimum government standards. 

Smart Water Valve

You can install a Wireless Water Valve on your home’s water main to control the water supply remotely through a Home Automation System. If you are away and an appliance leaks, flood sensors can detect it, shutting off the water supply automatically to limit flood damage. You will be sent an alert to your mobile phone. This technology can be applied to your dishwasher, clothes washer, water heater, etc.  

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats contain built-in sensors that automatically adjust temperature to  your preferences. The programmable thermostat adjusts the temperature at different times of the day, based on your specific settings. These thermostats can reduce heating and cooling costs because you can lower the temperature when you are away.

Smart Plugs

Smart plugs are used to manage the energy consumption of any device you plug into them. You just plug it into your electrical outlets and use the apps to remotely turn the power off and on, program usage times, and even display your total energy consumption.

Smart Power Strips

Smart Power Strips shut down power when devices plugged in go into standby. The electricity gets cut off on devices that are fully charged or not in use.

Smart Home Security Systems

Smart home security systems will send an alert to your phone when there’s an intruder. You can even view a live stream of your property allowing you to see if there is an emergency or if it is a false alarm.

Extended Appliance Warranty 

When you purchase a smart appliance or device, it will come with a manufacturer’s warranty. These warranties have a set term. Upon expiry, many homeowners feel they need longer coverage. It is very beneficial to acquire an extended appliance warranty so you are not without coverage. When you have an extended appliance warranty, you protect yourself from expensive repair and replacement costs of home appliances. ARW Home has the best reputation in the home warranty industry, by far.

Using smart technology in your home is a great way to upgrade your home, save money and energy, as well as help the environment.