Updating your home with the latest technology is no longer limited to installing home theatres and surround systems.
WATCH: How to turn your old house into a smart home
The latest tech trend that’s creating a buzz is creating a ‘smart’ home. More and more tech-savvy Aussies are getting on board with making their homes ‘smarter’. Approximately 2.3 million Australian households have embraced home automation to some degree. But this doesn’t mean that you’ll have to swap out all your current appliances or white goods to get on board with this trend.
Whether your goals are to be more energy-efficient, stay safe and secure, or make life more comfortable and convenient – home automation can provide just that.
Here are some tips on how you can get on board with making your house smarter.
Narrow down your needs
It’s not about what you think can be done, but what your home needs. Home automation can control almost any aspect of your home, whether it’s the front door or doorbell. Many DIY-ers may start with lighting or automated blinds, which are simpler to install, then move onto under floor heating and motion sensors.
Laser 10W Smart White Bulb B22, $10, Big W
When you connect your smart bulbs to your existing fittings, they become smart lights. Conveniently controllable via an app or virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa you can schedule, time and adjust light intensity with ease.
Laser 10W Smart RGB Bulb B22, $15, Big W
Like the bulb above, this product has the same features but can provide red, green, and blue lights as well.
Keep it simple
“The average Aussie home is predicted to have 18+ connected devices by 2023. That’s a lot of different settings to manage,” says Tim Fant, Offer Manager at Clipsal. “A system that lets you group all of your devices into one app will make your life a lot easier. It will also help you set single commands for multiple devices that can be given from that app or linked to home assistants and sensors,” he adds.
Work at your own pace and budget
A smart home doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. “Options that utilise the home’s standard wiring and can be installed during renovation or construction will also help reduce costs. They offer the ability to scale your system up in line with your budget, without the expense and hassle of ripping up walls and floors,” he adds.
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