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Probably there is someone around you who is always talking about their home automation system. Maybe you have even thought about installing automatic blinds or a temperature control system at some point. But it can feel daunting to take the plunge when we are not familiar with the technology.
Although it may seem like something out of a science fiction world, having a home automation system in your home is actually quite simple. Read on and get ready to install a home automation system: your day-to-day life will be much more enjoyable. Because the good life goes hand in hand with technology.
Home automation: let us help you understand it
When home automation first appeared, it almost seemed as if we were heading for a science fiction film: houses that think for us, butlers and robotic assistants… Now, home automation is widespread and many families already live in an intelligent home.
In other words, there are already many homes that have a technological and electronic installation that automates processes (such as raising and lowering the blinds) and controls electrical appliances (such as programming the oven). The options for turning your home into a smart home are many and varied.
Home automation: how it works
It’s easier than you think. The only essential requirement for a home automation system to work is that you have an Internet connection, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections being the most advisable.
The different home automation devices (e.g. a temperature control unit) will be connected to the Internet, generally through controllers that process the actions of these devices. These can be applications or virtual assistants, such as Alexa.
In short, we could say that home automation has three main objectives:
- Control. This means being able to control the status and security of your home automation system from anywhere, so that you can have peace of mind while on holiday!
- Remote action. This refers to the ability to operate a home automation device from anywhere, just by using your smartphone. For instance, you can turn on the air conditioning 15 minutes before you get home.
- Automation. This concerns the configuration of devices so that they can operate on their own, without the need for you to switch them on. This will ensure that the devices are on standby wherever you are.
Home automation: advantages
You probably have a lot of reservations and don’t quite dare to install an automation system in your home. At first, there is always some hesitation. But we can assure you that, if you finally decide to install it, you will wonder how you ever lived without it!
- Naturally, the main reason why we choose to have a home automation system is the convenience of being able to automatically control so many processes. Lights, alarms, calendar alerts, heating, oven, music… so that you can focus on what really matters to you.
- It’s not just a matter of comfort. A smart home is a more efficient home, as you can programme appliances and other devices so that they are only on when necessary and with the correct settings. So a smart home is an investment that, over time, will save you money.
- What’s more, home automation allows you to create a unique home. You can combine different technologies and systems to design your smart home in detail, customising each element. Do you like to have dinner with the lights at 30% intensity, for example? Or do you love waking up to Beethoven’s Third Symphony? Your home can do almost anything you ask it to.
- And perhaps the best advantage of all: having a safe home. There are plenty of home automation devices that allow you to be informed of any strange movements or noises that occur in your home while you are away. You can also set alerts if those noises or movements are detected.
Devices for a home automation system
The options are almost endless, but it is best to start small and see how you adapt to the new features of your smart home. We can classify home automation devices into three groups: security, environment and leisure.
Security
Feeling safe in your own home is paramount. Therefore, any innovation that allows you to control what is happening is welcome.
In this group, we can find smart locks that lock the door when you leave the house. Also, they work by means of codes, so that no one who does not have the code can enter your home.
Security cameras are also among the most popular home automation devices. You can choose when to activate them to check that everything is in order when you are away. You can control them from a mobile app and schedule notifications if there is movement or a strange noise.
Ambience
Achieve the ideal ambience at home by regulating the light and temperature according to your preferences.
Smart lights have become very popular, especially because they can be used to create different ambiences depending on the time of day or the occasion. You can regulate things like the intensity of the light, the colour and also the rhythm. Yes, you read that right. Imagine having a party at home: your lights can flicker, follow the rhythm of the songs… almost like in a nightclub.
Thermostats are also very common in home automation installations, as they provide a level of comfort that is completely adapted to your temperature needs. You can turn on the bathroom heating a few minutes before taking a shower, turn on the general heating as you get home so that you warm up quickly… and the same goes for the cold.
Leisure
There are many home automation devices that can turn your moments of leisure into something special. Not only for get-togethers with friends, but also, for example, for those TV evenings on the sofa.
In fact, smart TVs are already common in many homes and by voice commands we can instruct them to change the channel, search for a particular video or programme, change the brightness settings, and so on. Apple TV, Fire TV and Chromecast are some of the many systems that integrate TVs and the internet.
And of course, speakers are the life of the party. Change songs, turn the volume up or down, add audio effects… They are also essential for voice commands and giving orders to the devices.
Which home automation system should I choose?
Most importantly, you need to consider the purpose for which you want to use your home automation system. There is no point in buying the most sophisticated system if you are only going to use it to change channels.
We also recommend that you find out which devices are compatible with each home automation system. You will probably want to gradually add more functionality to your smart home, and it is always best if you can choose between several brands and types of products rather than being restricted to one in particular.
The most reliable home automation systems are the ones from Amazon (Alexa), Google (Google Assistant) and Apple (Siri).
Sounds great, doesn’t it? Many of the homes we sell at Sonneil come with the option of installing home automation systems. Because we are committed to innovation in the real estate sector. Take a look. Who knows? Maybe your new home is here.
