Smart home devices: What is a smart home and how can you save money on energy?
SMART homes are becoming increasingly popular, as more and more people look for innovative ways to improve their properties.
But what is a smart home and how can you save money on energy? Read on to find out everything you need to know.
What is a smart home?
The term smart home refers to a home setup in which appliances and systems, such as lighting and heating, can be controlled remotely.
Smart homes allow those who live there to connect and control a host of appliances and systems from one convenient device - that's usually your phone.
You can also use laptops and tablets, such as Amazon Fire tablets and Apple iPads, to monitor and manage your home.
For example, you can manage your home security systems and adjust your thermostat from the touch of a button - and it doesn't matter where you are.
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By utilizing smart home technology to reduce your heating remotely, or turn off the lights when you're not home, you can significantly improve your energy efficiency, which eventually leads to lower bills.
What is smart home technology?
While a smart home refers to a household that is equipped with electronic devices that can be controlled remotely, "smart home technology" refers to the individual systems and appliances used to enable that remote control.
Smart home technology includes devices and systems that can be controlled by voice commands like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
These specific systems and devices can automate tasks such as activating your security cameras, adjusting your thermostat, or even turning off a light that you may have accidentally left on.
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What are the different types of smart home technology?
Examples of smart home technologies include:
- Smart lighting systems
- Smart home adapters
- Smart speakers
- Smart thermostats
- Smart security systems
- Smart TVs
- Smart appliances
- Smart door locks
What is a smart home adapter?
A smart home adapter, also known as a smart plug, allows you to control the power supply of anything you plug into it via an app - you just need wi-fi and a smartphone.
This smart technology is especially useful if you've left a light on or an appliance plugged in, and you don't have time to rush back and switch it off.
As well as providing you with peace of mind, a smart home adapter can also save you a pretty penny.
Instead of leaving devices like TVs and speakers on standby, simply plug them into a smart adapter and schedule them to switch off during the night.
You'll find options such as the for sale on Amazon.
What is a smart home controller?
As its name suggests, a smart home controller coordinates all devices within your smart home.
Acting as the nerve centre of the home, it will receive commands and send instructions to all connected devices.
The smart home controller is connected to your internet router or modem using a wi-fi or Ethernet cable and is typically accessed via a smartphone app.
While a smartphone can be used to control individual devices in your home, a "smart home controller" acts as a central hub, allowing you to manage multiple devices in one place.
Where to buy smart home technology?
With so many smart home devices available to buy, it can be difficult to narrow down exactly where to shop.
From smart security systems and speakers to adapters and appliances, there are plenty of stockists worth checking.
Is smart home technology expensive?
Smart home technology can be considered expensive, especially if you're planning on purchasing multiple devices.
However, you can build a basic smart home on a budget if you shop around to find the latest deals and sales.
You'll often find discounted security systems and speakers when shopping at Amazon.
Currys is also another great-go-to, especially if you're in the market for savings on smart plugs, lighting, and heating.
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To find more tech deals and sales, check out the retailers listed above.
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