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home automation tips, risks, and benefits

on 02.13.21

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Smart home automation is changing the way we interact with our living spaces, providing new levels of convenience, comfort, and peace of mind.

AVDG specializes in creating state-of-the-art smart systems that are sophisticated, intuitive, and designed to provide an unparalleled family living experience.
If you’re looking to install or upgrade your home automation solutions, here are some key benefits and tips from our experts, plus a few things to be aware of when using these systems.

networking and control

First and foremost, when setting up your smart home network, you’ll want to ensure that your network is secure and that it has the bandwidth necessary to support your needs. All the components of your system should connect to the network automatically once they are set up and should not be easily accessed by outsiders. Protect your access codes and passwords and consult a professional about making your home network fast and secure.

usability

The ideal smart home system should be easy to use and make your life simpler, not more complicated. A common problem with home automation is combining several disparate components that don’t work well together or are difficult to access. Ideally, you should be able to control your entire system through one device or “hub”, with an intuitive interface. An AV design expert is ideal for setting up more complex smart home systems so that the end solution is a piece of cake to operate.

lighting

Automated lighting is a convenient home automation feature that saves energy and adds to ambiance. Smart lighting systems can learn your habits and adjust automatically based on the time of day, motion in the room, and even the amount of sunlight. Adjust them as needed based on your preferences. You can also install automated window treatments so that you can make the most of natural light while preventing unwanted glare.

One risk you’ll want to take into consideration is how your lighting adjusts when you’re not home. Be sure to adjust the settings so that at least a few lights are on even when you’re away from long periods. This helps to deter intruders, especially if the lights are on a different schedule each night, making it appear that someone is in the home. (With this right system, you can do this remotely if desired.)

climate control

Automatically adjusting your home’s heating and cooling units based on your family’s habits and preferences is one of the most effective ways to save energy and reduce energy costs. Climate control systems can adjust for the whole home as well as for different areas of the home. Not only will you cut energy costs, but you’ll always enjoy optimal comfort.

Automating a thermostat allows you to remotely control the temperature even when you’re not home. This allows you to keep energy use low while warming up or cooling down your home before you arrive. The ideal system combines the best of automation and easy manual control when it is needed.

security

Home security and surveillance systems are a must-have for monitoring deliveries and other visitors to your home. You can use internal and external features including cameras, lights, and alarms that are activated by motion sensors. Make sure that whatever system you use doesn’t become a hassle if it is set off by children or pets. Some sensors can detect the difference, so you may want to take that into consideration.

Some popular smart home security features you may want to have in your smart home include video doorbells and motion-activated security cameras. These come in HD, and some feature night vision. The best systems are easy to use and control and can be accessed via your smartphone. You can use your phone to access speakers and talk to visitors even when you’re away. You can also save video footage so you can view it later.

Other security features many people find worth having are environmental alarms. These will detect abnormal conditions such as smoke, carbon monoxide, or flooding. They can alert you or the appropriate authorities even when you’re not home.

access and locks

Remote access and automatic locks to your home’s entry points provide peace of mind as well as convenience. No more worrying about losing or forgetting your keys when you can access your home from your smartphone. Automating your home’s locks gives you peace of mind. Additionally, automated locks can be checked remotely, so you will never have to remember if you locked up or not. If you have a visitor you’d like to let in when you’re gone, you can let them in remotely

You’ll want to ensure that your network is secure if you want to automate your locks or access them remotely. You’ll also want to make sure that your system enables backup and support if you’re ever locked out.

entertainment

You can have a lot of fun in your own home with smart entertainment systems that can play your favorite music automatically or on cue, adjust the lighting in your home theater until it’s just right, and deliver premium surround sound – all from a single, easy-to-use interface. The best home entertainment experience is designed by experts who can optimize it to the unique aesthetics and acoustics of your home. Once you have your ideal system installed, you can have your favorite settings set up automatically. You can also automate the system to turn on and off when desired. This allows you to manage your daily routines effortlessly.

additional smart home features

The possibilities are endless as more smart home features are developed. Some technologies can access your appliances remotely and even monitor the inventory in your refrigerator and pantry. The key to making the most of any of these technologies is ensuring that you’re choosing systems that are easy to use, monitor, and adjust and that they integrate easily and securely with the rest of your home.

request a free consultation

Get the most out of home automation technologies with expert design and installation from AVDG. Whether you’re upgrading a single-family home or a multi-dwelling unit, we specialize in creating cutting-edge smart home experiences. Schedule a consultation to discuss your unique needs and explore your home automation options.