Home automation has arrived. From speakers and lights to appliances, doorbells, and window blinds, the market has exploded with smart home devices that can simplify tasks and make your life easier. If you are having a home built or are remodeling your existing home, giving it an upgrade to smart hub status may be at the top of your list. With the full range of products in dozens of categories, getting started can be a daunting task. Here are the top devices contractors recommend that help you bring your house into the age of the smart home.

Choose the Right Ecosystem

Before filling your cart with the latest greatest gadgets, take some time to confirm they work with your smartphone as well as each other, as all devices don’t necessarily all work together. If you already have an iPhone, you may want to start with the Apple HomeKit. However, Samsung’s SmartThings, Amazon’s Alexa platform, or the Google Home/Google Assistant may be preferred based on the types of supporting devices you want to add to your network.

Smart Speakers

These internet-enabled wireless speakers are voice controlled. Amazon’s Alexa works with more than 3,500 brands, and there are over 20,000 Alexa-capable devices. Apple’s Siri is the brain behind the company’s HomePod. Microsoft has Cortana, and Samsung has Bixby. These smart devices can play music, control you’re A/V, create a to-do list, and more. The capabilities of these digital butlers depend on which AI your speaker contains.

Smartphone Controlled Lightbulbs

Whether you decide to go with colored bulbs or the standard white, they are compact, have better color representations, and are much brighter than the first-generation options. The Internet-capable LED bulbs allow you to customize your lighting, from the hue to controlling it remotely. Depending on the bulbs you choose, an additional device, such as a smart switch, may be necessary for it to work with your speakers.

Intelligent Locks

Retrofit your existing deadbolt or replace it entirely with a keypad or sensor with Wi-Fi connectivity. Not only can they be used remotely, but some can also communicate with your smartphone, letting you know when it has been unlocked. If you have codes for different users, such as family members, your handyman, or cleaning service, the system may identify them by the code used.

At-Home Video Surveillance

From doorbells that allow you to see and speak to whoever is at your door to cameras with motion and sound sensors, there is an assortment of products that help you keep your home and loved ones safe. Choose systems that have interior and exterior cameras for a full view of your home while you are away. Some have 1080p image sensors with local and cloud storage for improved clarity and app accessibility.

Learning Thermostats

Sleek design and feature-rich may not be phrases generally associated with a thermostat, but they should be. The latest generation of home heating and cooling offers furnace monitors, Wi-Fi access, and provides geofencing support. They also allow you to do many of the same things as smart speakers.

AI-Enabled Appliances

No matter what your favorite food is, chances are there is a smart kitchen appliance that can help you prepare it. Immersion circulators for sous vide cooking, microwaves that work with an app, and coffee makers that connect via Wi-Fi are among the top picks. Cleaning is made easy with vacuums that wash and dry as well as sweep. Program or schedule them with the app and floors will be spic and span in no time.

Contact Us Today

Tech 24 Construction provides total-package general contracting/remodeling. We employ tradesman from master plumbers and electricians to mechanics specializing in the service and repair of HVAC, refrigeration, and exhaust systems. Our professional staff can help you customize plans for a home remodel and complete build-outs for a variety of commercial buildings, including office facilities, restaurants, and retail. Contact us today to learn more about our services and capabilities.