In the age of technology, it seems that everyone today has some new flagged piece of technology in their home: whether it is a digital voice assistant, or a doorbell that records the comings and goings of its residents, people of all ages and stages of life have quickly adopted home automation technology. A smart home is a home that uses any form of electronic device or technology to control or automate tasks around the house. These smart homes usually communicate between all devices located around the house via one central hub that acts as the brains of the operation.
Just like a smartphone, smart home tech makes it easy to automate a lot of manual tasks around the house, saving you time and energy. But like all good things, there can be a drawback to upgrading your home that you should consider as well.
Continue to read to find a comprehensive guide to the pros and cons of smart home technology.
Pros of Smart Home Technology
Pro: Convenience
There is nothing easier than using your voice or the push of a button to adjust the lights, volume, or temperature in a room in your house. Home automation devices simplify everyday tasks, allowing you to relax when you are at home as well as when you are away from it. Many technological appliances include remote capabilities, so you can adjust things even if you are physically outside of the home. No more worrying if you left too many lights on, as you can use your smartphone to turn everything off without needing to head home to check.
Pro: Energy Efficient
I reached out to Debbie Drummond of The Las Vegas Luxury Home Pro for some tips to add: "One of the most attractive things about smart home technology is the level of energy efficiency it will introduce to your home. Automated thermostats are easily programmable, so you can set things to the optimum temperature throughout every part of the day. Energy management devices like lighting controls, smart power strips, and smart plugs can reduce both your impact on the environment and your monthly utility bill."
Pro: Safety and Security
Gone are the days of only trusting your dog to keep your home a safe place, now, thanks to smart home automation and technology, home security systems are always in our back pockets. Whether you are looking for a simple security monitoring system with door and window sensors and a doorbell camera, or a more comprehensive setup, there are plenty of internal and external security solutions that can be monitored remotely.
Pro: Accessible for All Ages
One of the best things about the spread of smart home technology is the increase in accessibility around the house. Aging individuals or those with disabilities can now more easily access their homes with complete control at their fingertips. A smart home system also increases the security of a house. Smart homes empower people of all ages, providing the opportunity to lead independent lives in their own homes.
Pro: Increased Home Value
Smart home systems are being factored into the appraisals of home sales. Smart thermostats, smart smoke detectors, and home security systems are all proven to increase a home's overall value. Many insurance providers reward smart homeowners by reducing their premiums, as a smart home system can minimize damage and lower the number of claims a policyholder will file.
Cons of Smart Home Technology
Con: Compatibility Issues
One initial con to making your home smart is not using technology that plays nicely with each other. The smart home industry is competitive, and there are plenty of options available on the market. Do you know what works well with each other? It is important to do your research carefully and decide which ecosystem works best for your needs. The last thing you want is to have invested in millions of types of automated devices that don't work together nicely.
Con: Internet Outages
One drawback to a smart home is the eminent possibility of an internet outage. It happens, and while rare, losing power or access to the internet for any amount of time is already an inconvenience, especially when your entire home is dependent on it to do its job, the frustration can grow. You can cut down the risk if you have a backup plan in place to keep your system working despite an outage. It is just as important to know the limitations of your smart home appliances and technology ahead of time.
Con: Vulnerabilities
The internet has changed our world in both good and bad ways. We have access to amazing interconnected devices that make our lives so much easier at home and work, they also make us more vulnerable to cybersecurity breaches. It is important to remember that hackers can take control of your connected devices at any time. Cameras, microphones, and entire security systems can be vulnerable to the work of a hacker, but so can your internet access. With some security measures in place, you can enjoy your smart home without concern.
Con: Complex Technology Systems to Learn
While technology might seem fairly intuitive to some, it can be a challenge to master for others. Your home might feel smarter, but it might make you feel dumber! That is why it is important to work with the experts. Smart home professionals can help you design and build your dream smart home, and help you to learn how to use it properly.
Con: Initial Startup Costs
All good investments come at a price. Even though home automation systems have become significantly more affordable over the years, the initial cost to outfit your home with smart devices and technology can still add up. Be sure to do your research to find out what will work best to fit your specific needs.
The Bottom Line
Technology can be the answer to helping you live a happier, healthier, and more sustainable life. Smart home installation professionals can help you develop a solution that is optimized for your lifestyle, meeting all of your tech needs both at home and in the workplace. Like everything, there are pros and cons, but it is up to you to decide if each is worth the risk. Let Palm Beach Coastal Realty professionals guide you in finding your next dream home in the beautiful area of Palm Beach Gardens, FL today!
