This is a collaborative post.
If you wish there were more hours in the day, using automation around your home can help. After you’ve set it up, you can use voice commands to run all kinds of home tasks from entertainment to help with remote work.
There are lots of ways to automate your home, with help from companies like JNB Tech. If you’re just getting started with home automation, there are a few easy places to start.
For your first device, there are a few things to consider.
- Cost. There are smart devices for almost any budget.
- Setup. Start with intuitive devices before buying more complex devices to set up.
- Lifestyle. Choose a device that fits your lifestyle.
- Research. Read reviews and buyer’s guides before you buy.
For your first smart home device, there are a few good choices to start you on the automation journey.
Smart Speaker
A smart speaker is an easy way to start automating at home. These speakers work with voice commands and can be used to play music and podcasts, set timers, and control other smart devices.
Smart Lightbulb
Smart lightbulbs are a cheap place to start. You can use voice commands to turn lights on and off, dim lights or schedule lights to come on while you’re away. Pair bulbs with your smart speaker to turn lights down at bedtime, or your garage door opener so your lights come on when you get home.
Smart Plug
Smart plugs are an affordable option. They’re also very easy to use and can be used with almost any appliance to turn it into a smart device. You can set timers and schedule lights. Pair them with smart speakers to control lamps, or fans, for example.
Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a great way to make your home more energy-efficient while also making it more comfortable for you. You can set it to adjust the temperature when you’re asleep or away to save money. Some of the more advanced smart thermostats will learn your preferred temperature and program themselves. You could pair this with smart plugs to work alongside fans, temperature sensors to monitor different rooms, or smoke detectors to disable equipment in an emergency. Read more on this page.
Video Doorbell
Video doorbells work like security cameras for your front porch. Using the doorbell, you can see and speak to anyone who comes to the door without having to open it. This is great for directing delivery drivers even if you’re not at home, preventing delivery theft, and choosing when you want to answer the door. Pair your doorbell with a smart lock to give access to friends and family, smart lighting to welcome you home, or a smart display to monitor your front porch.
Smart Lock
Use a smart lock to arm or disarm your home security system, track when people come in and out, and do away with the hidden spare key. Remotely unlock the door when your hands are full. Pair your smart lock with a garage door opener to lock the door when you head out, smart lighting to turn on when you’re away, or your security system to disarm when you come home.