By CEDIA - Tue, Jul 2, 2024 - Blog
Home automation refers to the use of technology to control and monitor various aspects of a home's lighting, temperature, security, entertainment, and other systems remotely or automatically, typically through a smartphone app or voice assistant. This can include controlling lights, thermostats, security cameras, door locks, and appliances, as well as automating routines and scenes for different times of day or events. Home automation aims to increase convenience, energy efficiency, and safety while also enhancing the overall smart home experience.
The smart home trade continues to go from strength to strength. Thanks to huge leaps in security, sustainability and even fitness, nine in 10 of us now use smart home technology. That’s up from 55% in 2020.
So what exactly are the benefits of a smart home? Learn more about what’s making this £2.9 billion industry thrive.
With an internet connection, home automation allows homeowners to trigger electronic devices remotely, including:
…and much more.
All you need is WiFi to access wide-reaching functionality, taking the stress out of your daily routines. For example, you could program your blinds to open at sunrise, or think about integrating motion sensors to trigger garage doors.
Government schemes like the Green Deal are encouraging us all to reduce energy consumption. Smart thermostats help us keep an eye on our energy bills. We can also customise smart lighting and heating to power down while we’re away.
This goes beyond security cameras. Smart locks allow keyless entry, while alarm systems can alert us to suspicious activity. Smart home security protects valuable assets and deters intruders from entering, whether you’re in or out.
Every family deserves to feel safe. Smart smoke detectors alert you even if you’re not home, while carbon monoxide alarms monitor fuel-burning appliances. Avoid hefty insurance claims with leak detection systems, or even look after vulnerable people. Automated lighting, sometimes triggered by voice commands, may also reduce the risk of nighttime incidents.
Smart home systems offer comfort, convenience and security to potential buyers. There is also a direct correlation between energy efficiency and increased house prices, according to Money Supermarket. As investors factor in energy use and smart home products, property value rises.
Wearable mobile devices let us monitor our health – but what about connecting them to other smart home products? Voice control assistants can set reminders and timers for workout routines. Meanwhile, a surround sound speaker system and motion-activated lights recreate that gym studio experience.
The switch to hybrid working truly highlighted the benefits of smart home technology. We can tailor our home lighting, temperature and sound systems based on our moods – for example, an office or workout space. Create profiles based on your preferences, helping you get out of bed and wind down at night.
Home automation systems are ideal for those with mobility or accessibility needs. Smart security systems can send notifications if vulnerable people have a fall – including alerting emergency services.
Equally, smart appliances from refrigerators to washing machines promote regular routines. Voice commands take the physical stress out of day-to-day living to increase independence.
Smart home automation doesn’t get more exciting than home entertainment. Panoramic sound and lighting recreate the cinema experience. But they go one step better – putting the control in your hands with multi-room audio and video control.
If you’re a gamer, there’s nothing like the big screen to bring you into the moment. Visit our inspiration gallery to see these projects in action.