Home automation is the process of automating everyday tasks such as turning on lights, alarm systems, sensors and any other smart electronic devices. Many smart devices can operate on their own but often is brought together by a control hub which can either be a separate automation device or something like a smart tv.
Let’s take a closer look at automation and what it can add to your home. It’s something every Australian looking to build a custom home should consider.
Benefits of home automation
Automating devices at your home is convenient and comfortable. Instead of having to physically turn on a light, make a coffee, or set timers for specific events, your automation system does it for you. An example can be when you walk through a hallway, you have an automation that triggers through a motion sensor, then turning on the hallway light.
Further adjustments can be made for the light to only turn on at night or if there are light sensors, when light levels are at a certain level. You can also set the light to only remain on for 1 minute, as an example.
These types of settings are great for saving on energy consumption and costs. Instead of a light being on the entire day or for long periods of time, it only turns on when really needed. This is both efficient and cost saving. You save on your electricity bill; the light lasts longer and it’s very convenient.
Some estimate that automation can save up to 10% on heating and cooling system costs and 20% on overall energy consumption.
Another convenient automation example is using motorized shades. You can set up automation to open the shades in the morning when waking up. How cool is that? Also, have it close at a certain time of day when it starts getting dark.
Don’t forget about security enhancements through automation. There are many smart security devices available on the market such as smart locks, cameras, doorbells, motion sensors. With the right system the application is vast. You could have an app installed on any mobile device enabling you to view your home security 24/7, turn lights on and off, open and close doors.
This is great when you have little kids to watch over or elderly parents requiring care and monitoring 24/7.
Downsides to automation
Depending on the type of automation you are after, there might be some downsides to home automation. If you’re looking to automate and connect anything and everything in your home, it can end up costing a lot of money.
If you’re not tech savvy, you’ll need specialist help for setting up all devices. What do you do when something stops work? To assume that no of your smart devices will stop working or break at some point is wishful thinking.
Additionally, security of accounts, passwords and systems should not be taken lightly. The last thing you want is for your home automation system to get hacked and enable criminals to easily gain access to your home.
Be sure to read this article on home automation security tips for more information.
How to get started with home automation
There are so many ways to automate your home with smart devices. The simplest way to start would be to check the devices you already have in your home. Are they smart enabled? What protocol do they work with? Or what language do they use?
Are they all from the same brand? Maybe that brand has a smart home automation app you can use to integrate them together and set up automations. If not, you might need to get an additional device such as a smart hub enabling you to connect all your devices together. Once integrated, start setting up automation such as, if it’s 19:00 turn on lights outside the garage door. Or, when it 07:00 open the blinds in the main bedroom.
This video provides all the information you need to get started with home automation.
Summary
The thought of automating systems at home might be scary at first, but the benefits far outweigh the risks. It’s extremely convenient to automate lighting, tv’s, shades and especially security systems – only to name a few.
At IQ Construction, we are experts at custom home building catering to our client’s every need. Are you considering automation when building your dream custom home? Get in touch with us and find out how IQ Construction can help make your dream home a reality!