Smart homes connect different electronic appliances, lighting, security systems, thermostats, etc., providing seamless connectivity and facilitating smoother functioning of everyday tasks. Technology-enabled homes offer exciting opportunities for complete home integration via a single AI-controlled system. Setting up a smart home is not an arduous task. However, you want to build a solid foundation to expand over time, facilitating easy upgrades. Here are easy steps to setting up a smart home with off-the-shelf products that control most of the gadgetry:
Get a hub or voice-controlled virtual assistant
A smart home automation hub provides you with a one-stop solution for unifying your connected gadgets and controlling them from an easy-to-use interface or a consolidated app. Alternatively, you can use voice-controlled virtual assistants like Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant. They interpret human speech and then respond or act on it. Functioning using artificial intelligence (AI) principles, the VA recognises faces, identifies objects, and communicates with other smart devices and tools in the house. For instance, if you have motorised curtains, you can instruct your virtual assistant or use the hub to draw the motorised shades or windows, dim the lights or play your favourite song or movie altogether.
Opt for Light automation
Starting with a few devices is the key to keeping it simple. Pair LED lights with smart devices so you can dim the lights or increase the brightness with the flick of a finger or voice command. These lights can change colours instantly, thus elevating the functionality and design aesthetics of the interiors. Integrated wireless control keypads give the flexibility to adjust lights from anywhere. They are available as light-handed remotes or wall-mounted keypads. Additionally, occupancy sensors detect human presence in a room and automatically turn the lights on and off as required to help lower electricity bills.
Sync the thermostat
Most wireless controllers integrate multiple devices, which includes the thermostat. AI-based programmable thermostats adapt to the changing needs of the homeowners and automatically regulate heating or cooling as per the weather and internal temperature. Some thermostat systems feature sensors to monitor humidity levels and automatically activate a fan or vent, increasing cooling.
Home theatre
Home theatre systems comprising video and audio devices blend technology with style and elegance to enhance your decor. Then some built-in speakers enrich the immersive theatre experience without taking up floor space. You can customise music preferences and set up different genres using virtual assistants or via Bluetooth also. Opt for devices with built-in artificial intelligence (AI) allows one to work as an automation hub or voice recognition technology.
Security systems
Last but not least, install smart security devices like remote-controlled door locks and entry-level video doorbell cameras. This might require professional assistance as there are multiple levels of installation. However, it enhances home security, and you can monitor who enters the home on a chosen smart device.
Do keep in mind that smart homes are a work in progress. While you can build your entire smart home around popular hubs in the market, there’s a good chance you’ll need to upgrade or add another hub down the line. At the end of the day, the automation ecosystem is constantly changing. With minimum updates, you can set up a seamless, integrated system to automate your home.
