Tips & Reviews

Thermostats

While most people have heard of Nest, there are numerous smart thermostat models on the market. Some have more flash and modern style, while others focus more on their inner workings, resembling traditional thermostats. All smart thermostats can be operated via app, have advanced programming features and require a Wi-Fi connection. Automating heating or cooling programming saves energy by running only when it is needed, and adapting to user interaction.

Lighting & Plugs

Automating lighting solutions is one of the easiest steps to building a Smart Home. It can be as easy as swapping out a bulb for a smart bulb, or adding a Wi-Fi plug-in module to control a lamp via smartphone. Smart lighting can also be more complicated, requiring replacement of switches or plugs for wider-spread light automation. Certain solutions offer RGB-colored lights, while others only allow changing temperature, but all allow for automated scheduling and remote control for optimized energy consumption.

Irrigation Control

In drier climates, smart sprinkler controllers can save loads of water (and money) by optimizing the watering programs specifically for zip code–based weather, as well as factoring in foliage type and soil composition. Remote control of sprinkler zones is only part of the value, as some controllers can pair with flow meters to send alerts and connect with automatic shutoff valves when a leak is detected to prevent massive flooding and water loss.