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Home Automation
We make sure you get systems that use standards so that they work together and can be expanded easily.
Some systems can leave you on an island. Virtually every store that carries technology for home or office now offers a variety of home control devices, some that are independent and some that are interconnected. Have you ever stopped by and asked the in-store “expert” how to connect these devices and get them operating together as a system? It’s generally not a positive experience. It’s not uncommon to encounter very limited knowledge combined with very very limited device/applications.
A system that can be interconnected and grow by using industry standards will take you much further into areas of interest as your lifestyle changes.
Research shows that energy management is leading the way on home control systems. The two most common energy management systems control temperature and lighting (especially with the growth of more efficient LED lighting). An interactive/integrated management system can function with interdependence ….. such as lowering temp and lighting when the security system is engaged for the work/school day and then selectively turning on lights at nighttime if no one is home.
The point to consider is creating or growing a system that’s aware of multiple activities or lifestyle conditions as the household changes and ages. Home automation should be seen as a set of choices (some of which might not make sense now) that are made over time to fit lifestyle activities. So maybe you don’t need a door keypad on the front door that unlocks with a code (or from a smart phone app) because the kids don’t need to let themselves in….but wouldn’t it be great to know when they got home?
- How about adjusting that thermostat when you are away? How about it re-adjusting automatically when you are returning home because the system knows your phone is approaching?
- How about turning on or off certain lights or dimming lights from phone app? ….making it look like people are home.
- How about a water sensor at the drain or sump pump in the basement. Did it just rain 3 inches overnight?
- Did I leave the garage door open?
- How much energy does that space heater consume? Did somebody turn it off?
Also, take a look at the options for electric/motorized shades (they actually do save energy), programs for party lighting, audio/video/Sonos multi-room control, ring my cell phone when the doorbell is pressed, turn up the hot tub, turn off the sprinklers … you can add applications when your lifestyle is suited for more.