Smart Home Tips

Convert your old house into a smart home with simple, do-it-yourself ideas.

11:26 11 April 2017

Contrary to popular beliefs, converting your old house into a smart home does not have to be difficult and expensive. As technology continuously improves, home automation systems become more user-friendly and more affordable. In fact, if you have a wireless router, you are halfway there. Here are some useful tips to making a smart home:

 

Automate based on your preference

 

The whole idea behind smart homes is eliminating the need to do everyday tasks to free up some time and ensure efficiency. In order to achieve this, you need to empower your house so it can think and act for itself using home automation systems including but not limited to self-locking doors and smart thermostats. Identify the type of system that works for you and your family and automate your home based on your needs and preference.

 

Connect everyday devices to the Cloud

 

One of the first and simplest steps to making a smart home is connecting appliances to the Cloud for improved convenience and usability. This requires purchasing smart appliances that you can communicate with using specific apps. With this, you can check the content of your refrigerator or start brewing your coffee, among others, anytime, anywhere.

 

Embrace modern media  

 

For your go-to source for media, opt for a streaming device instead of using traditional cable set-top box. You may start with uncomplicated Apple TV or a smart TV with 4K resolution and curved screen that is sure to immensely improve your viewing experience.

 

Invest in smart devices

 

There are many smart devices that can make your life easier such as robotic vacuum cleaners and smart home assistants. These allow you to free up some of your time and focus on what’s more important in your life. Wouldn’t it be nice if you can just sit back and relax after a hard day’s work instead of cleaning your house?  

 

Purchase smart devices that are environment-friendly

 

When replacing old appliances around the house, look for EnergyStar-rated appliances that do not only allow you to save energy and money but also help you save the environment.