Debunking The Myths Of Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology is a growing trend that continues to gain popularity with devices and programs that add convenience and efficiency to everyday life.
Smart home technology uses an automation network to connect and control appliances and devices throughout a home or workplace using programming, sensors, or remote activation.
Some of the most popular smart home devices help to control lights, thermostats, security systems, garage doors, window treatments, and even appliances such as refrigerators and vacuum cleaners.
While some are extremely eager to jump into the world of smart home automation, others tend to shy away from it. There is some hesitancy to bring this technology into the home or workplace simply because of some previous misconceptions.
In this article, we are going to discuss some of these misconceptions concerning smart home technology and why we think they are myths.
Smart Home Technology Myth #1: It’s Out Of My Price Range
One of the biggest misconceptions about smart home technology is that it is too expensive.
While that may have been true in the past, major advancements have made automation much more efficient and affordable.
With more options available than ever before, there is now a wide range of devices and platforms that can fit within a variety of budgets.
In fact, smart home automation can actually help you save some money in the long run. Using smart light bulbs, switches, or thermostats and adding motorized window treatments to your windows can make your home more energy efficient and help you save money on your utility bills.
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Devices that are considered protective towards your home or business may also be eligible for discounts through your insurance company. Adding smart home leak sensors to your plumbing or a security system can help prevent costly damage while also saving you some money on your monthly bills. Be sure to discuss these options with your insurance provider for details.
In addition, automation can help to increase the overall value of your home. If you are thinking of someday selling your home, having motorized window treatments, energy efficient thermostats, or other smart home devices already installed instantly makes your home more interesting and desirable to potential buyers.
In the workplace, preprogrammed lights, security cameras, motion sensors, automatic thermostats, and motorized window treatments can really elevate your business. Protect your products or investments by having automated technology working for you around the clock. Employees will also want to work in a place that feels comfortable, secure, and state of the art.
It does pay to do a little research ahead of time to find the best solution for your needs and help determine the best value for your money.
There is also no need to automate everything all at once. Start off slowly and only add a few smart home devices that make sense for your living style and situation. As time goes on, other devices can be added into the mix as desired.
Smart Home Technology Myth #2: It’s Too Complicated
Smart home technology scares away some simply because it seems too high tech and complicated.
While it is important to stay within your comfort zone, there are many options available now that are incredibly intuitive and user friendly. On the same hand, the wide range of options can be overwhelming and just as discouraging.
Reaching out to individuals who are familiar with the different choices available is a great way to research what products might be the best fit for you. Reading product reviews can also help narrow down the available options.
While many programs are compatible, there are some that can not be connected to certain hubs. Decide on one brand to use and standardize it throughout your home or workplace to make it easier to control and maintain. Having one central hub will eliminate confusion and unnecessary complications.
It’s best to start with a system that integrates seamlessly with the devices and platforms already in use, such as your smartphone or tablet. Begin with a smart device that you are already familiar with and comfortable using. Adding other smart home connections can be as simple as plugging in the new device and downloading an app.
The idea is to go slowly and start with what you know.
Smart Home Technology Myth #3: It’s An Invasion Of Privacy
There is an ongoing concern that adding technology to a home or workplace can be an invasion of privacy.
Voice activated devices can be triggered to “listen” to what the consumer is saying. The fear is that all conversations are being listened to or recorded. While voice controlled devices are incredibly handy for hands free operation, they are not the only option available.
Most programs can be operated by remotes, apps, or sensors which eliminates the need for anything to listen for a command. If even the possibility of voice activation makes you uncomfortable, there are brands of smart home devices that do not have this accessibility feature as an option.
Another key concern is that private information may be on display or shared without the user’s knowledge.
While there is some validity to this concern, major tech companies take great pains and precautions to encrypt their proprietary information to ensure their own security as well as that of their customers. These encryptions are the same ones that are used by banks and other major institutions for protecting valuable information.
There are also numerous safeguards in place to help protect and avoid fallout in the event of an information breach. Every company knows that their reputation is at stake if they are not providing exemplary security and protection.
There are also certain precautions that the consumer can take to protect themselves. Ensure that your internet router is properly protected and be sure to use distinct passwords that are unique and can not be easily guessed.
Privacy and security can also be enhanced with smart home technology. Security systems can be self monitored instead of controlled by a security firm. Motion activated lights can be used to ensure an area is well lit and secure. Garage doors can be connected to a smartphone allowing them to be opened or closed remotely whether you are at home or away. By preprogramming the lights or window treatments, a house or workplace will look inhabited and deter unwanted attention.
When considering privacy, be sure to weigh both sides of the equation. Remember that there is no need to automate everything all at once. Start with certain smart home programs that you are comfortable with and that make the most sense for your situation.
Smart Home Technology Myth #4: It’s Always Changing
There is always the concern that as soon as new smart home devices are added to a home or workplace, that technology will soon be replaced by an updated version because it is always evolving and changing.
While there is a chance that as soon as you decide to add a new piece of technology, a newer model will be announced, it does not mean that it is still not worth the investment.
Spending some time to research tech trends will help determine what products and brands will be the best bang for your buck.
The plus side of getting electronics that have been out for a while is that there will be more thorough information available through product reviews. They may also be offered at a discount if they have been on the market for some time. Brand new electronic devices will most likely have a steeper price tag and less reviews available.
Most technology can automatically update to keep programs and applications running the latest versions even if they are not the newest model available. Keeping up with these updates will help you get the longest life out of your devices.
Keeping an eye on what is current and popular will make it easier to adapt to the new things coming your way. It is much easier to upgrade to a newer version when you are already somewhat familiar with the platform.
Start with what you are familiar with and then determine what you like and dislike. Be sure to ask questions and do a little research to determine what is worth the investment of your time and money.
Some Final Things To Consider
To recap, smart home technology can be incredibly beneficial and a valuable addition to your home or business.
Here are four key things to keep in mind before investing in smart home technology for yourself:
- Start off slowly. There is no need to automate everything all at once.
- Use what you are already familiar with and find devices that connect with what you are most comfortable using.
- Consider what makes sense for you. There is no need to automate everything just because you can. That will only lead to frustration.
- Reach out for help from professionals. Integrating everything together does not have to be complicated, but it will take some education, so use a trusted professional to get the right devices and programs set up and let them show you how best to use it.
Smart home technology is here to stay. The days of these programs and devices being considered a novelty or only for the extremely wealthy are long gone.
Integrating this new form of technology into the home is becoming increasingly popular because of the security and convenience it provides.
When it comes to adding smart home technology or updating your window treatments to work with the connected devices you already own, consider the benefits or working with professionals.
At Gotcha Covered, we pride ourselves on being on the cutting edge of technology within the window treatment industry. We work hand-in-hand with our vendors to offer nothing but the best solutions for your home or work place.
Let us show you all the wonderful possibilities that motorized and smart home connected window treatments can provide while adding beauty and functionality to your life.
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