Make the Smart Move with Professional Home Technology Upgrades
Thirty years ago, “smart home tech” meant owning a VCR that only the family pre-teen knew how to program. Fast forward, and now our homes are, well, smarter than us in many cases and certainly do most of the physical “footwork” for us. For example, if you’re busy slicing a pizza for the kids, you can ask your home’s virtual assistant to turn on the light over the kitchen table, stream some upbeat supper time tunes, and add a gallon of milk to the grocery list…all without missing a beat on slicing that pie!
Additionally, for the elderly or the differently-abled, smart home technology can support independent living with a myriad of reliable, affordable, and safe solutions.
Integrating smart home technology into existing living spaces tops the list of what many On Time Electrical customers request when they give us a call. While installation can be DIY, for the electronically savvy, there are some important benefits to having a skilled, licensed, and experienced electrician handle that for you and we’ll cover those points here!
First, let’s review the Top 10 Ways Smart Technology Can Benefit Your Household.
- Smart Speakers and Voice Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo, Google Nest, and Apple’s HomePod integrate voice assistants (Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri) that control various smart home devices, answer questions, and manage schedules.
- Smart Thermostats: Devices such as the Nest Thermostat or Ecobee adjust the temperature based on user preferences, learning habits, and can be controlled remotely. They help in energy savings and maintaining optimal home comfort.
- Smart Lighting: Systems like Philips Hue or LIFX allow users to control lights remotely, adjust brightness, change colors, and automate lighting schedules. They can also integrate with other smart devices for enhanced functionality.
- Smart Security Cameras: Indoor and outdoor cameras like those from Ring, Arlo, or Nest provide real-time video feeds, motion detection alerts, and can store or stream footage to smartphones.
- Smart Doorbells: Products like Ring or Nest Hello feature built-in cameras, allowing homeowners to see and speak to visitors at their door from anywhere, adding an extra layer of security.
- Smart Locks: Brands like August, Schlage, and Yale offer smart locks that allow keyless entry, remote access, and the ability to grant temporary access codes to visitors.
- Smart Home Hubs: Devices like the Samsung SmartThings Hub or Apple HomeKit integrate various smart devices, enabling them to work together seamlessly through a centralized app or system.
- Smart Plugs and Outlets: These devices make traditional appliances smart by allowing users to control them remotely via smartphone apps, often integrating with voice assistants for added convenience.
- Smart Appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, ovens, and other appliances from brands like Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool are increasingly connected to the internet, allowing remote control, monitoring, and even automatic replenishment of supplies.
- Smart Home Surveillance Systems: Comprehensive security systems like SimpliSafe, CPI, or ADT include cameras, sensors, alarms, and monitoring services, all controllable from a smartphone app, are becoming popular for their ease of use and enhanced security features.
Important smart home technology considerations:
- Security: Any smart home device that is capable of connecting to the internet has the potential to be hacked, accessed remotely, and in some cases, controlled by outside users. It comes with the same concerns as any WiFi-connected device you have, such as a laptop or desktop computer. To protect your personal data and prevent hacking, make sure you have the necessary security software and settings engaged to protect your network.
Many experts offer these security tips:
Check security settings on every device on the network, if one is vulnerable, they’re all vulnerable.
Protect your Wi-Fi network with all available security settings and a strong, unique password.
Use unique passwords for every device on the network.
Install system updates when they become available so you’re protected against any new or evolving cyber threats. - Power Outages: The best way to be prepared for any power outage, and keep your smart home running smoothly, is to select smart devices that come with a battery backup. There are many backup battery pack options on the market spanning all sizes and price points. You can opt to just backup critical systems and appliances or invest in one that can power your entire house for several hours. There are also solar-powered backup battery products, as well.
- Accessibilty: “What if I have smart locks and lose power while I’m not home, am I locked out?”
Our On Time Electrical experts get this question a lot when helping customers, so we’re including it here: No, you won’t be locked out. Smart locks can still be opened with your good old-fashioned house key and when you get inside, you can still flip a switch to turn those smart lights on.
Now, back to the DIY vs professional installation question…here are the
8 Key Reasons On Time Electrical Should Handle Your Smart Home Technology Upgrade:
- Expertise and Experience: Professionals understand the complexities of integrating different systems and ensure that everything works together seamlessly.
- Proper Setup and Configuration: Correct initial setup is crucial for the functionality of smart home devices. Our skilled technicians are well-versed in properly configuring each device to mitigate the chances of connectivity issues or malfunctions later on.
- Time Efficiency: Professionals are familiar with the setup process and can avoid common pitfalls that might slow down the installation.
- Optimal Device Placement: Proper placement of devices is essential for optimal performance, particularly for systems like smart lighting, security cameras, and Wi-Fi networks. We know the best spots to place these devices for maximum coverage and effectiveness.
- Troubleshooting and Problem Solving: Unexpected issues can arise during installation, such as network compatibility problems or device conflicts. On Time Electricians troubleshoot these issues on the spot, ensuring your system is up and running smoothly.
- Integration with Existing Systems: Smart home technology often needs to integrate with your existing home infrastructure, such as HVAC systems, security systems, or entertainment setups. Our experts make sure that new devices work seamlessly with what you already have.
- Security Assurance: Smart home devices can be vulnerable to security breaches if not installed correctly. Our specialists follow best practices to secure your network and devices, protecting your personal data and privacy.
- Warranty and Support: On Time Electric offers additional warranties, labor guarantees, and ongoing support. If something goes wrong after installation, we are your one-call solution for immediate help and long-term satisfaction with your smart home system.
Not sure what smart home technology to invest in first? Your On Time Electrical professionals are happy to visit your home and assess your current power system in order to recommend the best smart technology devices for you. We can also assist in setting up your smart technology and completing initial programming.
Our customer service is available 24/7 at (704) 820-4803. Check out our weekly and monthly specials, plus we waive the service call fee on ANY repair! Locally owned and operated, we’re On Time Electrical. It’s electric!
WC: 1205
Sources:
Existing knowledge on One Hour Heating and Air products & services, along with website information.
Enhanced and refreshed with:
https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-smart-home-devices
https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/technology/the-ultimate-smart-home-diy-vs-professional-install