As a growing industry, the smart home profession is becoming a mainstay of trade roles. Smart home installations are pivoting towards energy efficiency, automation and security, with new products emerging every day. From IT issues to burglar alarms, customers’ needs are developing, which offers lucrative opportunities for smart home professionals.
If you’re looking to get started in this thriving sector, take tips from the professionals on how to become a smart home installer.
If you want to build a career in smart home automation, start with these essential steps.
To gain experience in the industry, you’ll need to research user problems and the corresponding technology available. Be mindful that smart home tech is always changing – but customer service is at the core.
This puts the emphasis on troubleshooting, helping customers use their smart home products beyond the installation. You’ll need to be open to learning, which is where the CEDIA Academy can help.
The most successful smart technology installers have the certifications to back it up. Once you’ve established your niche, you can explore the qualifications available including:
Don’t forget, you can build on existing qualifications. For example, an electrical contractor might want to advance into an IST. Every CEDIA certification is brand-neutral. This means you’ll be qualified to work with anything from Alexa voice assistants to Schneider Electric lighting controls.
You can also state that you’re CEDIA-certified, giving homeowners total confidence in you to install their smart home systems.
With qualifications in smart home solutions under your belt, it’s time to build your network. The right contacts will put you in touch with the best stakeholders. These may be companies to join, or suppliers, designers and clients.
Better still, a solid network will give you insights into the industry. You’ll discover different types of installations and new smart home devices. This may open up opportunities for new markets or cost savings – ideal for keeping your home installation business profitable.
Not sure where to start? CEDIA runs events throughout the year, from our local Tech + Business Summit to the famous CEDIA Expo. Network with respected professionals in the field and build a name for yourself.
To become a home automation installer, you’ll need to start by researching the latest trends in the industry. CEDIA members get exclusive market insights and events to keep you updated.
A smart home installer can do anything from project management to installing doorbells. You might choose a more customer-facing role like sales, or a hands-on technician career. Roles change all the time as technology develops, from lighting to audio and heating.