Home Automation Systems: Do You Need One?

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You’ve probably heard a lot about home automation systems (aka smart home systems). A smart home automation system allows you to automate the electronic, electrical and other technology-based systems in your home using hardware and software. These smart home devices allow you to control things like wifi, door locks, security cameras, video door bells, smart lights, appliances, heating and cooling and other systems in your home.

A smart hub can connect all the devices on your home automation system through a single piece of hardware, such as a computerized touchscreen panel mounted to a wall in your home, or software which can remotely control your home via computer, tablet or smartphone. Some home automation systems can even control your smart home devices using voice controls.

These 14 gadgets can easily turn your home into a smart home.

Do I Need a Home Automation System?

There are lots of reasons people choose to automate their home with the help of smart home devices. Home automation systems make things more convenient. Instead of getting up to turn on all the lights, you can do it from your smartphone when you’re pulling up to your home in the car or while sitting on the couch. Smart homes systems can also make independent living a lot easier for disabled individuals and seniors.

In addition, a smart home system can adjust your thermostat when you’re not home which can save you money by conserving energy, which is also good for the environment.

Home automation systems and home security are a natural match. You can watch your home security cameras remotely and check-in to see if your kids and pets are OK, for peace of mind. These systems can also tell you if you have a water leak or something else that needs to be repaired.

Home automation systems can also pose privacy and security risks. So, you’ll want to follow these 10 tips to make sure your home automation system is secure.

How Much Does it Cost to Automate a Home?

You could spend a few hundred dollars or several thousand dollars depending on how “smart” you’d like your home to be. Cost Owl says that a home automation system starter kit, which covers basics like lighting and deadbolts, can run you anywhere from $40 to $500.

Some home automation systems require monthly payment plans that can cost between $20 and $120, after you buy and install your smart hub, which can run you $150 to $1,500. Hardwired smart home systems are a lot more expensive and used for large-scale automation. These systems can cost between $3,000 and $15,000.

You can save money with this DIY home automation system.