While smart home technology has been around since the 1990s, people are just beginning to appreciate having it.

The devices in a smart home are interconnected and accessible from a single hub, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop or gaming console. A smart home automation system allows the user to operate devices and appliances remotely, including lights, door locks, televisions and multimedia sets, thermostats, home monitors, cameras and refrigerators.

With a smart home, you can enjoy the following advantages:

1. Energy efficiency

Since having a smart home allows you total control over your appliances, including your lighting, heating and cooling systems, you know exactly when they’ll power up. You won’t need to worry about forgetting to turn off the lights before leaving home. You can also set your thermostat to an optimum temperature. You can even program your refrigerator to remind you when it’s time to go shopping and so on.

2. Convenience

Automating your home means not having to lift a finger to turn certain devices and appliances on and off. You also don’t need to peep outside to see who’s ringing your doorbell, as you’ll be using a video intercom. Best of all, since you can operate your smart home remotely, you can manage your household even from afar.

3. Safety and security

With your CCTV system being accessible even while you’re away, you’re assured of your household’s safety and security against home invaders. You’ll also be alerted if there’s a fire accident in your home, so even first responders can help. Also, you can have smart locks installed, so you won’t need to take any keys with you ever again.

How to turn your place into a smart home

The quickest albeit expensive way to have a smart home is to buy one. However, there are also things you can do to turn your regular home into a smart one.

• Choose a hub. Examples of this include Samsung Bixby, Amazon Alexa and Google Nest.
• Set a budget. Know how much you’re willing to spend and for what in turning your place into a smart home.
• Create a priority list. There are lots of devices and appliances you can use to automate tasks in your household. However, purchasing and installing them all at the same time can be expensive and time-consuming. If you can afford only a few things to start, prioritise your lighting system first.
• Know the steps needed to program your devices. If you’re unsure, you can always research or get professional home automation help.
• Get everything set up and installed. Again, you can DIY this process or get the help of smart home experts.

Perfecting your smart home system can take weeks of practice.

Once you’ve mastered the steps, you’re sure to enjoy living in your smart home even more.

If this article has inspired you to think about your own unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please contact your advice professional.

This information does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any person. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)