Smart Homes: What can be automated?

More and more people are opting for smart homes for the benefits in convenience, energy efficiency and improved comfort. Making a smart home involves automating the working of different home appliances such that there is minimal human operation. A good example is automating lights to only light up when there is someone in a room, or automatic opening and closing of window blinds at specific hours. Home automation ranges from simple to complex. So where can automation be done?  And what can be automated?

Lighting systems

Lighting can be made more efficient with automation. Smart lighting allows controlling the lights from a central panel, or using a smartphone app. Also, smart lights can be programmed to go on when someone enters a room.  It can also turn off when there is no activity in the room.

Smart lights can be programmed to change in brightness depending on sunlight; gradually dim as daylight comes on. Automated blinds are also part of smart lighting systems. The blinds open and close automatically depending on the level of sunlight.

Lighting is an integral part of the security system. With smart lighting, security is maintained while keeping energy bills low. The lights are set to light up only when triggered by movement.

Security and privacy

A smart security system enables more robust surveillance and control. This includes cameras that start recording when triggered by movement, and sending of SMS alerts when an intruder is detected. Internet Protocol cameras enable remote monitoring over the internet. Such a system also includes fire and smoke detection. It is able to send alerts to emergency services when a fire threat materializes.

Automating opening and closing of garage doors and other doors also improves access control. Doors can be programmed to close after a specific period of inactivity or at specific times of the day. All doors can be opened and closed from a central point.

Heating and cooling

Energy efficiency in a home can be significantly improved with automation. Smart heating and cooling can be controlled automatically. This system is also programmed to work only when there is a presence in the room.

Smart entertainment systems

Automation of entertainment systems enables centralized control. The DVD player, TV/projector, audio and gaming consoles are integrated such that they are controlled using one remote control console.

Integrating entertainment equipment also enables seamless sharing of content, for example, playing computer games while viewing the play on the TV and getting the sound from the surround speakers.

So to sum it up, a smart home offers more in convenience, comfort, security and energy efficiency. The good thing is that smart home systems are getting better while coming down in price.  Hopefully you now have a better understanding of what can be automated.