smart home devices
As technology advances, and more processes become automated to make life easier, the concept of a “Smart Home” has grown in popularity. This term refers to a home that uses one or more electronic devices to initiate or complete actions that would have otherwise been the responsibility of the residents. Today, devices exist to order household items automatically before they are depleted, monitor who is entering and exiting your home around the clock, and even keep your yard perfectly mowed without needing to fill a gas tank or rake up grass trimmings.
In addition to these features, there are various Smart Home devices available to help homeowners both monitor their home comfort systems as well as save on energy costs. Below are just a few options to consider when looking to upgrade your technology, maximize energy savings, and increase peace of mind:
- Smart Thermostats
- Brands such as Honeywell, Ecobee, and Nest offer thermostats that work seamlessly with room sensors, technology like Amazon Alexa, and your smartphone to maximize comfort in your home. Depending on the model, they can receive voice commands and even detect occupancy in each room, to adjust the temperatures accordingly. This responsive technology allows homeowners to save up to 23% in heating and cooling costs each year, according to various studies. Several articles are available online that compare specific brands and models, and the different manufacturers offer simple comparisons to help you decide which one is right for you!
- Smart Lighting
- Several systems now exist that work with sensors, smartphone settings, voice commands, and even location monitoring that allow you to completely control the lighting in your home. Lighting can be set to a schedule, coordinated to sense when you are nearing your address to that your home is well-lit for you when you arrive, as well as controlled remotely. There are modes to randomly turn lights on and off while you are away from home to give the appearance of the house still being actively occupied. Alerts to your device can make you aware of lights that may have been left on unintentionally that you can chose to turn off in order to save energy when not in use.
- Smart Window Shades
- Motorized window shades, set to schedules and personal preferences can both enhance the atmosphere in your home, as well as reduce the energy consumption needed to compensate for temperatures that fluctuate due to lack of window insulation or heat from sunlight. By adjusting the settings to the time of day and seasons, homeowners can optimize their energy efficiency.
- Smart Energy Monitoring
- Devices are now available from several manufacturers that attach directly to your home breaker panel to give you insight into your energy usage. It is helpful for estimating your energy costs, identifying locations or appliances that use too much electricity, and alerting you to trends and behaviors that could potentially be adjusted for more savings. These monitors can communicate with smartphones and other devices, and also give you detailed reports and real-time reminders. There are even features that provide information regarding solar panel energy capture data, for homeowners who tap into alternative energy sources.
- Smart Water Leak Detectors
- Devices now exist to detect leaks that are caused by frozen pipes, spills and maintenance issues in the home. When placed below a sink, around pipes, or surrounding a hot water heater or washing machine, they can immediately alert homeowners at the first detection of water or even a drop in temperature that could potentially cause leaks. Depending on the brand, these monitors can connect seamlessly to other smart home devices, such as thermostats to give the homeowner a complete picture of the status of their home environment, even if they are miles away.
If you are within Lancaster County, and considering upgrading your home to be more energy-efficient, feel free to request a free estimate on a brand new HVAC home comfort system by calling our office at (717) 626-7169, or visiting our website at: www.weaverenergy.com!