Smart Systems That Can Improve the Functionality of Your Home

From smart security systems and doorbells to smart kitchen appliances, many people are discovering the benefits of smart home technology. These systems allow remote monitoring, customization and wellness and safety check-ins through apps and online platforms. 

For example, a smart thermostat learns homeowner habits and can automatically adjust temperatures for energy savings. They also help track air quality and can remotely control smart lighting. 

1. Smart Doorbell 

Many smart home devices connect to the internet and use applications to adjust their functions based on pre-set schedules or voice commands from the user. This makes it easy to control your home from a smartphone or tablet. 

Some are also designed to sync with other devices like doorbell cameras or whole home security systems, allowing you to monitor your home from one convenient app. Other features can include touchless doorbells so guests don’t need to hold hands with others (which could spread germs) and smart lighting that automatically switches on based on daylight availability. 

A smart doorbell with motion sensors or face recognition technology lets you know when someone is there. With some models, you can also hear and speak to your visitors through two-way audio. This is especially helpful for those who are worried about missing deliveries or if their packages have been stolen from their porches. 

2. Smart Lighting 

One of the first smart systems most people install in their homes is smart lighting. Replacing regular light bulbs and switches with smart ones allows homeowners to control their lighting remotely, even if they’re out of town on vacation. This makes it easier to avoid leaving the lights on while they’re out of the house, and it reduces energy waste. 

In addition, some smart light bulbs are customizable and can be controlled through home assistants like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant. These features can allow homeowners to easily turn their lights on and off, and they can also change colors based on the time of day. 

Many smart light bulbs can also be connected to other devices, such as smart speakers, which allow homeowners to set up routines that switch the lights on and off or play music in every room. This can help to make a home more comfortable, fun, and efficient. 

3. Smart Thermostat 

If you’re tired of wasting energy and are ready to make a big change, a smart

thermostat could be the perfect upgrade for your home. These advanced systems allow you to control your home’s temperature from your smartphone or tablet, whether you are at home or away. 

Smart thermostats are able to learn your habits and adjust automatically to save you money and time. Some devices even have room sensors that recognize the presence of people in a particular area, allowing you to create a more comfortable home environment while still saving on energy costs. 

A smart thermostat can also connect with other devices like motion sensors and smart speakers. This allows you to set a timer for your oven to preheat while you’re at work or tell Alexa to turn off the heating while you’re on vacation. In addition to adjusting the temperature, these smart systems can provide insight into your energy usage, helping you to stay on track with your home budget. 

4. Smart Assistant 

Probably the most popular smart home tech is the voice assistant. Whether it’s Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri, voice-activated virtual assistants allow homeowners to operate their devices hands-free. 

Many of these systems can communicate with one another too. For instance, a Philips Hue lighting system can follow specific routines that turn lights on and off across the entire home or create groupings that respond to commands like “turn all the kitchen lights on” or “turn on the dining room light.” Similarly, when your smart refrigerator detects that you’re low on milk, it can add the item to your shopping list within your smartphone app. 

Some smart speakers even come with multiple virtual assistants built-in. For example, the new Ecobee SmartCamera comes with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant installed, giving homeowners a choice of which smart assistant to use. Samsung also has its Bixby AI platform that runs on its smartphones and smart refrigerators. 

5. Smart Appliances 

If you've ever wished that you could start your coffee maker from bed in the morning, preheat your oven on your way out of the house, or turn off all of the lights in your home using a single voice command, smart appliances can make those wishes come true. 

Smart appliances also collect data about their own performance, helping them to perform better. For example, a smart dishwasher can automatically run at the lowest energy times to save money and resources, while a smart fridge can notify you of when foods are nearing expiration or recommend that you take advantage of local sales on milk. 

Many smart appliances  with internet connections—can also store diagnostic information for service technicians to access during a visit. This can help cut down on unnecessary trips and costly repairs. In the future, you may also be able to control multiple appliance brands with one app. GE, for example, offers its own device hub called Matter, while the Home Connectivity Alliance is aiming to develop a standard that will allow appliances from different brands to talk to each other. It is a good idea to make sure you have appliance warranty for these smart devices and systems to save yourself time and money.