Implementing Security into Smart Home Environment

Smart homes are no longer a concept of the future. More and more people are introducing stuff like voice assistants, remote control hubs, and automatic switches to better utilize amenities in and around their dwellings. But how about improving the security aspect of your home? This is equally, if not more important, than simply enjoying modern comforts.

Smart home security is essential, but first, let’s discuss the concept of a smart home.

What is a smart home anyway?

Smart home technology involves the automation of common home devices and allowing them to communicate among and with each other over a computer network. This is based on the Internet of Things (IoT), which is becoming increasingly important to how people go about their daily lives. Almost anything around your home can be automated. Light bulbs, microwave ovens, fridges, doorbells, clocks, window blinds, water heaters, and even cooking utensils are among the items on the list.

Benefits of a smart home

Creating a smart home environment presents a lot of benefits. When tweaked to suit your living conditions, they can have a positive environmental impact if you are striving for a “green” home.

1. Help reduce energy usage

Electrical energy consumption has a direct effect on carbon emissions since a substantial amount of electricity is generated from fossil fuels. Smart homes help to reduce electrical energy usage by turning off lights and appliances when not in use.

2. Saves water

Water conservation is a big deal in many parts of the world where fresh supplies are inadequate. Smart taps help reduce wastage by keeping pipes turned off when not in use, as well as adjusting flow volume.

3. Temperature adjustment

House temperatures also have an effect on the environment, as well as on human health. Smart thermostats help to regulate the temperature in your home, which can reduce energy costs and bring about a more comfortable living space.

Some common smart home devices include:

• Amazon Echo: On the surface, this device appears to be a simple Bluetooth speaker, but it can control numerous Amazon-related devices through the Alexa voice assistant. It also works with If This Then That (IFTTT) technology, which makes it compatible with other smart home gadgets.
• Ecobee Smart Thermostat: This line of smart thermostats allow you to control the temperature in your home using a variety of commands over Wi-Fi and a mobile app.
• Philips Hue lighting: These smart light bulbs not only turn on or off, they can also adjust their intensity and even change colour.
• Kasa Smart Wi-Fi power strip: With many appliances often plugged into power strips, this device helps to monitor energy usage and provides a range of other useful features.
• Logitech Harmony Elite: For those who like using remote controllers, this type allows you to control much more than your TV from a single device.

Home security

Smart home security systems use a number of interconnected devices to help homeowners create a more secure home environment. This is increasingly important as residential homes are constantly under threat from burglaries and other criminal activities. Smart home security devices include smart alarm systems, door locks, and CCTV camera systems.

There are many benefits of using smart home security solutions. Smart alarm systems, for instance, tend to be cheaper in cost and easier to install and monitor than traditional systems. In addition, you can monitor these devices from almost anywhere in the world. If you happen to be on vacation or away on a business trip, you can keep a track of your home security through mobile apps and over the internet using your laptop.

Popular smart home security devices include:

• Wyze Cam: An affordable home camera system that comes with premium features such as sound and motion detection, and time-lapse recording.
• Arlo Ultra: An outdoor camera system that can stream in 4k or UHD and comes loaded with features such as motion tracking, and night vision in colour.
• August Smart Lock: This door lock boasts a number of cutting-edge technologies, including DoorSense, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro: This smart doorbell camera delivers live video in 1080p via the Amazon Echo Show.
• SimpliSafe Home Security System: A complete DIY, self-monitored security system.

While adding smart devices to your home, it is also a good idea to work on the security aspect, especially with increases in home burglaries over recent years. If you need advice about the best home security systems you can buy, you can speak to the team at Power Right.