4 Commonly Asked Questions About Installing A Home Automation System
Home automation may sound like a futuristic idea from a science fiction movie, but it's actually an achievable reality for modern homes. Automation isn't entirely a new concept; homeowners have been using it for many years in products such as remote controlled garage doors and timers on heaters and air-conditioning units. However, the vast leaps ahead in technology that the world has seen in recent years, means the scope of home automation has expanded dramatically. Here are three commonly asked questions about installation of a home automation system.
1. What exactly is home automation?
Home automation is basically anything that allows you to remotely control functions of technology in your home, or for a system to do it automatically for you. This can include your security system, lighting, heating and cooling, audio and visual devices, intercom, and even windows, blinds, and curtains.
2. What are the benefits of home automation?
There are a number of benefits to home automation. Primarily, home automation makes your home simpler to use and allows you to access the functions of your home's features and appliances with ease, even if you're not at home.
Home automation can also reduce your energy consumption, and therefore your energy bills, by ensuring that appliances and features are used only when necessary and to their best advantage. For example, an automated lighting system can turn on the lights when someone enters the room and turn them off when you leave the room.
3. What interface does a home automation system use?
The type of interface you use will depend on whether you have individual systems for each feature and appliance or a single, integrated system. For individual systems, each function will have a remote control or programming device which you can set to your preferences. A single, integrated system will generally have one master panel which controls every function.
Both types of system will usually allow you to access the control panel remotely via your smartphone, computer, or tablet. This means you can have complete access to your home automation system from wherever you are located as long as you have wireless internet access.
4. Can I use a home automation system in an older home?
If your home has been built in the last decade, it has most likely been 'future-fitted' with the cabling that is required for modern technology and also for future technological advancements. If your home is older, or hasn't been 'future-fitted' then it's still possible to have a home automation system installed with little difficulty.
To do this, you'll need to employ the services of a qualified and licensed electrical contractor. They'll be able to install the conduits for cabling, install and connect the individual or integrated systems, and ensure the system you're going to use will work in the most efficient and cost effective way possible.
One of the most appealing aspects about home automation is how it can be tailored to perfectly meet your home's and your family's needs. For more information, contact an electrical contractor in your area.