If you’re looking for an affordable way to transform your property into a state-of-the-art smart home, we’ve got good news. While some home automation innovations are pricey and require a professional install, there are a growing number of cost-effective smart home solutions you can DIY.
In this post, we’ll cover five easy DIY devices so you can jump on board the smart home revolution.
1. Wireless Home Security System
Unlike integrated wired systems, wireless home security systems rarely require professional installation.
In fact, plenty of these are DIY home security systems that can be easily set up on your own, and you’ll be surprised how versatile these units can be. Expect to find high-tech components such as motion sensor alarms, high definition cameras, glass break detectors, wireless keypads, and siren strobes.
All the same, installation complexity depends on the components involved, and you’ll need to ensure each part is compatible with the others. A reliable home security system provider will be more than happy to advise you on compatibility between different home security sytem devices.
2. Video Intercom System
Video intercom systems have been around for a while, but recent advances in wireless technology have made them more affordable and effective than ever before.
A typical unit includes a wireless door camera(s), an intercom flush mount, and a high-definition touchscreen display. Each time the doorbell rings, the homeowner can monitor and communicate with the guest through the display unit. Most modern video intercoms also work remotely through a smartphone app, so you can keep tabs on your home from anywhere in the world.
Even though they’re not specifically designed for home security, video intercom systems can help protect your property, too. Would-be burglars usually wander off upon spotting a camera, and you can configure the unit to capture images on every doorbell press.
3. Smart Outlets
Tired of wasting your hard-earned cash on sky-high electricity bills? There’s a straightforward solution to your energy woes.
A smart outlet is a simple, easy-to-install adapter that slides straight onto any standard 240v (mains) power outlet. Once you’ve hooked the outlet up to your Wi-Fi network, you can control it remotely through a custom-built smartphone app. That way, you can turn the outlet on or off on command or programme it to function at a specific time.
Although it might sound basic, the technology lets you turn any appliance into a smart device—that’s especially useful for power-hungry units like heaters and A/C. Most outlets are compatible with the major smart hubs, so you can operate them with voice commands.
4. Smart Light Globes
There’s no need to hardwire your switches to enjoy smart lighting in your home.
Smart light globes come with in-built Wi-Fi receivers that latch onto your local network and allow you to flick them on and off through a mobile app. Of course, you can pre-programme them to operate at specific times, too.
Unlike standard bulbs, most smart globes come with programmable dimming levels, so you can set mood lighting as you please. Many models even boast smart hub compatibility, which lets you control the lighting via voice commands.
Installation is easy: all you need to do is screw them in and hook them up to your Wi-Fi network. Although they’re a bit pricier than standard globes, you can expect smart bulbs to last for many years to come.
5. Smart Hubs
Think of a smart hub (Nest, Echo, Alexa, etc.) as the brains of your automated home. These centralised internet-enabled computers are designed to control all (or at least most) of your smart devices, including the options mentioned above.
Essentially, a smart hub streamlines the process—instead of swiping through several apps, you can control everything on one interface. The best units also respond to voice commands, which most users find more convenient than the app.
Installation is easy, but be aware that not every smart device is compatible with every smart hub.
Make Your Home Smarter Today
Smart home technology is becoming increasingly accessible to the everyday homeowner; there’s now a wide array of easy DIY devices that don’t require any special knowledge or skills. Consider investing in the above options to turn your ordinary house into a smart home without the headache of a complex installation.
Keen to buy a video intercom system or another DIY smart device? Get in touch with the friendly team at Home Safety Store to find out more about your options today.