Whether you live in a three-bedroom split level, a four-bedroom colonial, or a one-bedroom high-rise apartment, you probably spend the majority of your nonworking hours in your house. That is to say, it should be both friendly and efficient. This is now easier than ever thanks to the expanding number of smart home devices.
In fact, 69 percent of American households own at least one smart home gadget, with 12 percent owning multiples. Convenience is the most important aspect in picking a smart home gadget, with over half of people citing it as a reason. The most popular smart device right now is smart televisions and other video entertainment devices. There are, however, many additional options, such as voice assistants, smart locks, and smart lighting.
Here’s a closer look at a few of these gadgets to help you figure out which one is best for you.
More than half of those who use smart home gadgets claim that they save over a half-hour each day. Smart doorbells are also becoming increasingly popular since they allow you to see who is at your door without having to be present. Another popular item that allows you to listen to music and audiobooks while at home is a smart speaker. Smart speakers can also be synced with other technology so that you can control them with a single command.
You can add smart lighting to your network and use voice commands to turn lights on and off. They can also be configured to turn off when you’re not at home to save energy, or to turn on while you’re away to give the impression that someone is still at home.
Other devices allow you to keep your home safe for you and your family. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, for example, can not only warn you about dangerous compounds, but also pinpoint their location.
When a smart water monitor is connected to your water pipes, it uses ultrasonic technology to detect even the tiniest water leaks. Cameras in smart security systems allow you to view or review footage from anywhere. More information on some common smart home devices can be found in the accompanying infographic.