Clean the pool, heat the spa, feed the cat, vacuum the floor, dim the lights, turn up the music, see who’s at the door, and water the garden. Smart home technology makes it possible to control a range of domestic functions at the touch of a screen, or via a simple voice command, from anywhere, anytime.
And just when you thought homes couldn’t get any smarter, AI technology is being incorporated into a range of products and devices, which will help your smart home do even more of the tasks that humans used to do. The most exciting benefit of AI will be its ability to assist in setting up entire smart-home systems and routines via voice-controllable devices such as Google Home Assistant or Alexa.
The list of what functions you can automate is endless, with all the major tech brands offering smart devices to control things such as security cameras and sensors, keyless entry, digital sound systems, plus ‘indulgences’ like pet cams and feeders, robotic vacuums, and automated window washers.
The liveability benefits and peace of mind are immense. Imagine never having to worry about whether you’ve left the iron on, locked the door, or turned the lights off?
Another benefit of smart automation is increased energy efficiency, so users save money on power bills.
Top Five Smart Home Picks
Security Systems
Security remains top of mind for many homeowners, and also when it comes to smart technology. Smart security systems, including cameras and motion sensors provide us with real-time monitoring and control over our homes' security. Video doorbells such as Ring, which connect via an app to your phone, are extremely popular and one of the simplest and easiest ways to monitor who is at your door.
Smart Locks
With a smart lock, you can keep your home secure without keys, give guests and tradespeople temporary access, and lock your door with a single touch. Some smart locks have built-in WI-FI and will alert you if the door is left open.
Smart Pets
Smart pet technology is becoming more and more innovative. Smart doggie doors that are coded to open only for your pet’s microchip, automatic feeders that dispense the right amount of food at the right time, and smart drinking fountains that ensure your pet always has fresh water are gaining popularity. Pet cameras and microphone speakers allow you to check in and communicate with your dog or cat during the day, and if they look bored, why not activate an automated toy such as a cat robotic laser chaser, or a smart ball bouncer?
Smart Plugs
If you don’t have an integrated smart home system such as C-Bus, Savant Home or Basalte Home but want to automate your devices, perhaps invest in some ‘smart plugs’. These relatively inexpensive devices mean that any electrical appliance can be operated via a touch screen or an app on your phone or become integrated into your existing smart home system.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats use pattern recognition to automatically adjust heating and cooling to ensure optimal temperature settings based on your family’s needs. They make heating and cooling your home much more convenient and offer the ability to check and control individual room temperatures from anywhere via WI-FI. They are also designed to reduce heating and cooling costs.
