Ask Angi: How Can I Make My Home Smarter?

Video doorbells are probably the most common smart home accessories, and for a good reason. They can alert you when you have visitors or packages, making them perfect for people who want to keep an eye on their home while traveling.Pojoslaw/Dreamstime/TNS

By Angie Hicks From Ask Angi

Smart homes don’t need to be overly complicated. From video doorbells to robot vacuums, there’s a smart home upgrade for everyone.

Here are some of my favorite smart home devices and some thoughts on how to hire a smart home pro.

Video Doorbells

Video doorbells are probably the most common smart home accessories, and for a good reason. They can alert you when you have visitors or packages, making them perfect for people who want to keep an eye on their home while traveling. If you want to take it a step further, you can connect your video doorbell to other security devices, like a hub, smart door lock, and other cameras that monitor your home. With your phone or mobile device, you can see who’s at your door from hundreds of miles away.

Energy-Saving Devices

Smart home devices can also help you reduce your energy usage. For example, you can set up smart lights that allow you to turn them off remotely or schedule them to turn on and off at certain times. Smart thermostats work the same way. Remotely controlling your home’s temperature can save energy in the long run. Smart vacuums

If you’re always looking for ways to save time, a robot vacuum cleaner may be a good option for you. The vacuum can run while you’re out of the house, allowing you to return to a clean home. Some devices can also mop your home for you, which can save you even more time and energy.

Tips for Smart Home Hiring

The most important element of home automation is connectivity. You want your various devices to be able to talk to each other, your computer, your phone and sometimes you yourself. Some smart devices, such as those listed above, can be installed and connected easily without the help of a pro. But if you’re integrating numerous devices or building a complex security or automation system, you can benefit from hiring a home automation specialist.

Home automation pros often have experience and credentials to handle and integrate complex systems. In some cases, especially with security or alarm systems, they can ensure everything is up to code. If you’re installing a security system in particular, make sure your pro has the proper licensing to work in your area.

Verify that your smart home pro is backed by insurance. Lots of things can go wrong when installing home automation, particularly if your pro needs direct access to the electrical system. Bonded and insured pros can give you peace of mind should you encounter complications.

Also, most reputable pros offer service and support after you’ve completed the initial setup. They can offer advice on troubleshooting, safety tips, future upgrades or answer questions if you run into trouble down the line. And this is technology; something will definitely go wrong at some point down the line, so it’s good to have an expert on speed dial.

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