The world we live in is evolving around technology connected to the internet. Many innovations today are connected to the internet, even if it is as simple as an app that provides a better user experience.
With environmental problems around the world, countries, companies and individuals are adapting to technology to help solve these issues. One of the sectors making use of green technology is the construction industry, where smart homes are the part of this green movement, helping make houses more eco-friendly.
What is a Smart Home?
Smart homes, also known as home automation, are more than just a modern trend; they are our future, improving safety, enjoyment, expediency and energy efficiency of a home. A smart home includes internet-connected devices, allowing for monitoring and management of appliances and systems from anywhere. Smart home systems can share data among themselves and functions can be automated according to the preferences of the homeowner.
Benefits of a Smart Home
Smart home devices can be controlled from anywhere by the homeowner, which is very convenient and helps save time. The energy consumption of the home can decrease due to the functions certain smart devices have to offer:
Temperature Control
If you are out and forgot to adjust the thermostat, you can regulate the temperature in your home from your smartphone. Smart thermostats can also be automatically set to shut off or turn on at a specific time and some even memorize your temperature preferences, maximizing energy efficiency.
Lighting
Smart home lighting is another system that can be controlled remotely. By adjusting the porch lights to turn off when the sun rises, you can save energy while enhancing security. A programmable system will alert you when lights are left on when no one is around, which minimizes energy waste.
Window Treatments
This system can help reduce the HVAC energy consumption in your home as it keeps the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter time. The window shades can be set to close automatically during the hottest time of the day if you are trying to keep the house cool and vice versa during the winter.
Irrigation
Smart irrigation systems can detect the weather and turn off when rain is detected. Irrigation systems like these can help to save thousands of gallons of water a year.
The energy usage of smart homes can be monitored, which allows you to make the right adjustments, saving you money and minimizing the environmental impact of your home. With new gadgets and innovations arriving on the market, it is not long before most homeowners will own some form of a smart home device.
This guest post was contributed by Matt from Tri-Star Savannah, a company specializing in HVAC installation and repair. Check out their blog for more info on smart homes from these heating and cooling experts.
