Home automation systems monitor your home and family in real-time for potential risks such as flooding, fire or carbon monoxide. They also provide peace of mind and convenience.
Research from Parks Associates states that 7% of Canadian broadband households had smart devices like video doorbells, locks or thermostats in 2018. Those devices can be automated to trigger one another.
Peace of Mind
Many homeowners who install smart home automation systems do so to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with it. This is especially true for those who live alone or have young children. Imagine never having to worry again about whether you turned off the lights or locked the front door when you left for work.
With remote access to your security system, you can check that everything is safe before leaving the house. You’ll also be able to monitor your home remotely from a smartphone app, a computer or even a voice-activated assistant.
In addition to enhancing the comfort, convenience and sustainability of homes, smart technology is becoming more affordable for consumers. As a result, more and more Canadians are asking for smart devices in new homes.
Energy Savings
It is not uncommon for a home automation system to allow for energy savings which can also translate into monetary benefits. Aside from reducing energy usage by turning lights off and keeping your house at an efficient temperature it can also ensure appliances are only turned on when needed. This is especially important for things like home entertainment systems and security devices that can be activated remotely.
With geofencing and motion sensor technologies, your smart home can also turn off lights or even reduce heating when rooms are unoccupied. This not only cuts down on energy bills but it is a great way to reduce the impact your home has on climate change. For those who are not ready for a full-blown home control system just starting with a few smart devices can simplify your life and cut back on waste.
Comfort & Convenience
One of the greatest benefits of home automation is that it offers comfort and convenience. From controlling lighting, drapes and audio/video equipment with a tap of your mobile device to making sure that you don’t miss a delivery while watching a movie at home by pausing the film to let in the driver, smart technology has you covered.
Most smart home devices can be controlled via an app and many can also be automated to trigger each other. This means that your lights can be scheduled to turn off at bedtime, your thermostat can adjust the A/C about an hour before you arrive home from work and your blinds or curtains will close to reduce wear and tear on your furniture. Even better, you can check in on your home when you are away through video doorbells and security cameras.
Smart Home Security
Home automation systems can integrate with a wide range of devices such as smart locks, thermostats and lighting. This means that you can control everything from a single app on your smartphone or tablet.
These technologies can also track things like utility bills, monitor energy use and reduce carbon footprints by automatically closing blinds to reduce UV damage to carpets and furnishings, adjusting the heating schedule when nobody’s at home and turning off appliances and lights to minimise “standby” power drains.
The good news is that many companies now offer smart technology packages and products that are affordable for both do-it-yourself homeowners and professional installers. Plus, they are scalable so that you can add features to your system later if needed. This makes the investment well worth it.
Real-Time Surveillance
Real-time surveillance features available through home automation can make it easier to keep an eye on things like your house when you’re away. Security features include motion, door, water, and temperature sensors as well as cameras. Some even alert you of unauthorized activity through your smartphone app.
The technology behind smart home automation is evolving rapidly. Manufacturers are developing high-bandwidth wireless protocols that enable demanding applications with low latency. In addition, energy harvesting technologies can prolong battery life and allow wireless devices to operate without a power source. These new innovations are expected to drive the market during the forecast period.home automation canada