Happy Home InsiderSmart technology allows you to easily control your home with your voice or a phone app. You can monitor your home, control who enters it, or make sure you turned the iron off before you left. When connected to a voice-controlled hub, you can turn connected devices on or off using your voice. Smart homes and home automation makes life easier while giving you an extra sense of security.
1. Amazon Echo
The Amazon Echo is a voice-controlled speaker that has a virtual assistant called Alexa built in. It can also act as a hub for smart home devices. Alexa can perform tasks like ordering a pizza or laundry detergent, Googling a question, setting an alarm, playing music, and controlling compatible smart devices. Alexa works as the brain of a smart home. Alexa has many different skills that can be downloaded, some for specific devices such as smart locks or light bulbs. You can control these connected smart devices with the Alexa app or by using your voice.
2. Smart locks
Smart locks allow you to use an app to lock and unlock your home. You set temporary passcodes for visitors if you Airbnb your apartment. Some smart locks come equipped with a video camera so you can visually verify who is at your door, while others come with speakers to talk through. Alexa-compatible locks can be verbally commanded. Worried you forgot to lock the front door? Check the app or ask Alexa.
3. Smart lights
Dislike turning off the light switch and fumbling to your room in the dark? Smart lights can be controlled using a smartphone or hub like the Alexa or Google Home. LEDs are more energy efficient than traditional bulbs and come in different colors. Set the lights to a timer so they dim at night, preparing you for bed. You can turn the lights off remotely using your phone if you forget on your way to work.
4. Smart plug
Turn nearly any regular electricity-powered appliance into a “smart” one using a smart plug. You can plug in your everyday lamp, crockpot, space heater, or kettle. You can turn them on and off using a smartphone or hub and even schedule them to turn on at a certain time. Have your kettle set to turn on right before you wake up, so the water is ready when you are. Turn your crockpot on a few hours before you leave for work. Smart plugs are a cost-effective way to make your normal everyday electronics and appliances “smart.”
5. Security or Pet Camera
Check in on your pet during the day with your smartphone. You can even talk to them and give them a treat with certain devices. Security cameras can allow you to monitor your home remotely from your phone or tablet. Sensors detect movement and alert you when triggered. You can also watch and record video. Outdoor cameras allow you to see what is going on outside your home through your phone.
There are many smart gadgets you can add to your home for convenience or security. Smart plugs allow you to control nearly any device with your phone or voice. Smart home security allows you to watch over your home remotely, giving you peace of mind. Smart technology lets you make the most out of your home, connecting all of your devices to one hub that can be controlled with your phone or voice.
