Consider Adding Smart Home Tech to Your Home for Peace of Mind

If you are looking for ways to boost the value and efficiency of your home, while securing more peace of mind as a homeowner, smart home technology is one of the best places to start. There are so many different ways to incorporate technology into your home in a way that secures your home and protects your investment. If you own a home in St. George, consider adding these smart home technology features. 

Security Systems

Perhaps the most obvious is the first one: smart security systems. While home security systems are nothing new, the current technology has made them so much more secure and easier to use. These systems have evolved to be more accessible and effective, allowing you to monitor your home from anywhere in the world via a smartphone or tablet.

You can choose from features like these:

• Smart Cameras: These are often the centerpiece of smart security systems. With features such as motion detection, live streaming, and cloud storage, you can keep an eye on your property, whether you're inside or away from home. Some cameras even offer night vision and facial recognition capabilities, making it easier to differentiate between a family member and a stranger.
• Smart Doorbell Cameras: These doorbells allow you to see who’s at your front door and even communicate with them through two-way audio. Whether you're upstairs, at work, or on vacation, you can answer your door virtually. This not only helps with security but also ensures you never miss a package delivery.
• Smart Locks: Traditional keys are slowly being replaced by smart locks, which can be locked or unlocked via an app, voice command, or proximity sensor. Some systems even allow you to create temporary virtual keys for guests or service providers, eliminating the need for spare keys.
• Motion Sensors and Alarms: Smart motion sensors can detect unusual activity and send immediate alerts to your phone. When combined with other devices, such as cameras and alarms, they can provide comprehensive protection. Smart alarms can trigger loud noises, while connected systems can also alert local authorities if a break-in is detected.

Lighting

Automated and smart lighting systems can provide more than just convenience—they add to home security and energy efficiency as well. These are some of the things you can choose to use in your home:

• Automated Lighting Schedules: You can set lighting schedules to turn lights on or off at specific times, which is especially useful when you're away. This gives the illusion that someone is home, helping to deter potential intruders.
• Motion-Activated Lights: Motion-sensing lights placed around your property, especially near entry points, can increase security by automatically illuminating areas when someone approaches.
• Smart Bulbs: These can be controlled through apps, allowing you to adjust brightness, change colors, and create presets. Some systems integrate with other devices, like security systems, to flash or change color when an alarm is triggered, alerting neighbors to any issues.

Thermostats

You may not think of your thermostat as a tool that can give you peace of mind as a homeowner, but with smart home technology it can be. Heating and cooling your home efficiently is important not just for comfort but also for saving money and energy. Smart thermostats provide homeowners with the ability to optimize their HVAC systems based on actual usage patterns and preferences.

Smart thermostats learn your routines and adjust the temperature based on when you're home, away, or asleep. Over time, they help you reduce energy usage, leading to lower utility bills. Some models provide energy reports that highlight savings and suggest additional ways to improve efficiency.

You can also adjust your home's temperature from anywhere using your phone. This is particularly useful if you're coming home earlier or later than expected and want to adjust the temperature remotely.

In addition, most of these smart thermostats can be integrated with weather forecasts to preemptively adjust the temperature based on upcoming weather conditions. For instance, if a cold front is moving in, the thermostat can turn the heat on sooner to ensure your home remains comfortable.

Leak and Flood Sensors

Water damage is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face. Smart water leak and flood sensors can help prevent or minimize damage by detecting leaks early and sending alerts to your phone.

• Leak Detection: These sensors are placed in areas prone to leaks, such as near washing machines, water heaters, or under sinks. When moisture is detected, you receive an alert on your phone, allowing you to act quickly before a small leak turns into a major problem.
• Automatic Water Shutoff Valves: Some smart systems integrate with automatic shutoff valves, which can turn off the water supply to your home when a leak is detected, preventing further damage.

 Smart home technology can give you more peace of mind and add value to your home. 

Want to learn more about homes for sale in St. George? We can provide you with a free market analysis of your current home to understand what it is worth, or assist you in finding your new home here. Contact us any time to learn more.