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Almost everything in your home can now be connected to Wi-Fi, enabling you to access functions such as temperature, audio, and security systems via an app. While this level of independence and versatility will make your house more comfortable and effective, the sheer amount of smart devices on the market can be overwhelming. Luckily, it’s a lot simpler than it seems, and you can always connect these systems yourself. Here are seven do-it-yourself ways to make your house smarter.
LIGHTS
Smart light bulbs can save you money by turning on just when someone is in the room. They are the simplest to install, and have a number of features in them. The best ones on the market change colors and can be monitored and operated from anywhere through your mobile phone or your preferred smart center.
SMART TV
A smart television only takes a few minutes to set up, and they are a simple way to get started in the world of smart devices. These TVs when connected to your Wi-Fi, will enable you to download applications and streaming services directly to your device. Since the operating system is installed straight into the TV, this capability practically removes the need to purchase costly devices for streaming video. What you just need to do is enter your Wi-Fi password and grab some games or streaming apps and you’ll be ready to go.
SMART SECURITY CAMERAS
There is a vast selection of smart security devices to select from. Like video monitoring systems, smart locks, doorbells with motion sensors and built-in cameras, exterior motion lights, and smart home security kits that require a private service subscription.
If you only need to set up one or two indoor cameras, there’s no reason you can’t do it yourself, but larger systems or devices may require you to call a professional to set it up for you. The most important items you’ll need for installation are your Wi-Fi password, the camera’s app, and maybe a few options to place the camera anywhere you want it.
There are step-by step video tutorials on different websites that would make the process simple and easy. If you’ve properly installed your webcam, you’ll be able to watch a live stream from your phone no matter where you are.
SMART THERMOSTAT
Purchasing a smart thermostat for your home is one of the greatest investments you can make in your developing smart house. The best brands or models will allow you to change your home’s temperature remotely, which means you can turn on your heat just before you leave the office or your work, so your house is warm when you walk in.
Your thermostat can be connected to your smartphone. Regardless of where you are, you will be able to track and change temperature & energy consumption in real-time. Getting a smart thermostat will save you money in the long term and you’ll be able to turn off air conditioners that you left on or reduce the heat if you’re not at home. More modern versions will also learn your routine and change the temperature automatically without you having to lift a finger.
In terms of installation, these thermostats are frequently a decent fit for those wanting to do more DIY tasks. Many manufacturers do have video guides to assist with setup. Do some homework and research on your existing thermostat to ensure that the smart thermostat you’re buying is matched with your home’s wiring, heater, and air conditioning systems.
SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
Smart smoke/carbon monoxide detectors outperform traditional detectors by delivering direct alerts both from the unit and to the phones of your relatives or housemates. Furthermore, many would go so far as to warn you of the exact area where the smoke or carbon monoxide was found.
One of the most significant problems with a traditional smoke detector is that there is very little distinction between the sound of the warning and the sound it creates when the batteries are to be replaced. This creates confusion, which smart detectors avoid because many feature smartphone warnings and voice alarms that say “Smoke detected” or “Low battery” instead of the typical chirping.
One of the investments you might make on the way to getting a complete smart home is a smart smoke alarm. They are reasonably priced, and if you can install a normal detector, you can install a smart detector.
There are a couple of accessories to add, including a router that connects to your Wi-Fi, but they are easy to connect. A smart bulb, like a smart smoke alarm, is a simple step toward a smart home or an ideal present for those who may be overwhelmed by adding something as sophisticated as a thermostat.
SMART OUTLET
In certain instances, all that is needed is a smart outlet rather than a smart device. These ports feed into traditional electrical outlets, into which you can connect appliances such as automatic fans and lamps. Once the smart outlet is linked to your Wi-Fi, you can monitor it with an app that allows you to switch the power on and off from anywhere and schedule the appliances to turn on at certain hours.
That means you don’t have to give up your beloved lamp in order to monitor it remotely. Based on the make and model of your other gadgets, these outlets will communicate with other appliances in your home or be powered through your smart hub, enabling you to activate it with your voice.
Many businesses & companies are making smart outlets, but as with anything else in this article, do your homework & research. Assess which outlets are suitable for your current devices and whether a smart outlet is a right choice for your home.
SMART HUBS
The smart hub is the finishing touch for a fully integrated smart house. This is a computer that, monitors most, if not all, of your smart gadgets, such as lighting, thermostats, and televisions. Instead of having a hundred individual applications for all of your different smart gadgets, you’ll be able to run them all from this single platform, either through its own specific mobile app or through voice commands.
Do your homework and research to find one that is compatible with your other gadgets and any pre-existing utilities (such as a streaming music account) before buying a smart hub. Choose a hub from a brand you already trust to prevent getting stuck in a slew of other smart device solutions.
Fortunately, these hubs are simple to set up, affordable and have a variety of interesting features. What you’ll need is your Wi-Fi password and a place to store it. Be sure to sign up for any email alerts about the system, as technology companies are continually improving their technologies. Controlling your smarter, more powerful home would be a breeze with everything going through your center.
Having Smart home devices is not necessarily energy-efficient, but the majority of them can be used to help you save energy. When you have smart home devices like what we’ve listed, you can monitor when and how they turn on and work. As a result, you have more leverage on your energy use and are more likely to change your habits.
