Smart homes are generally defined as houses with various appliances and systems that can be remotely controlled by the owner, usually via an Internet connection. Smart homes are designed with convenience, safety, and efficiency in mind. Virtually every aspect of the at-home living experience can be modified via smart technology, from security to home entertainment. Other popular smart home features include locks, energy monitors, and automated irrigation systems.
Smart home systems are often controlled by a single hub, although this hub can be accessed from multiple devices, including smartphones, computers, tablets, and gaming consoles. Certain features may require the use of a special controller, but widespread integration and ease of use are two of the main appeals of building or moving into a smart home.
Automated tasks and systems can be adjusted in real time or scheduled for specific times. For instance, a smart thermostat can be set to a certain temperature at night and then automatically rise or fall as the day progresses. At any point, residents can access the smart system and adjust the temperature as they see fit. The latest smart home advances feature self-learning skills, meaning a thermostat might recognize that the exterior temperature is unusually warm and automatically lower the indoor temperature without user intervention.
Smart home features not only improve convenience and comfort for homeowners but also can help individuals and families save money. Lighting systems, for instance, can be set to activate only when a person is using a room or outdoor area before automatically shutting off after a period of inactivity.
Because of the remote nature of a smart home system, homeowners can control certain aspects from miles away. If a person forgets to shut off the air-conditioning before leaving for a long vacation, for example, they can turn the system off from their phone or laptop, though a self-learning smart home may automatically shut the system down. More importantly, homeowners can remotely monitor their property and contact authorities if they see a security threat, whether it be an attempted break-in or a fire.
Although smart homes provide homeowners with many benefits, there are certain drawbacks to be aware of. If the system malfunctions, it may not be possible to repair it without help from the professionals who installed it. This can be particularly frustrating if the system prevents manual override. Moreover, if a smart home system is fully integrated, a single issue might cause errors throughout the entire network.
The remote nature of smart home systems, which rely on Internet-of-Things (IoT) technology, means they usually require strong Wi-Fi coverage and broadband service. The IoT aspect of smart homes presents another potential issue: hacking. If an outside agent gains access to the system, they may be able to mine the user's personal data.
If possible, homeowners should discuss the advantages of a hardwired system with installation experts. These systems are less prone to hacking and Wi-Fi related issues, but they usually cost more. Hardwired systems also involve the installation of many Ethernet cables, which take up space.
