The internet of things (IoT) is on the rise with projections suggesting that approximately 50 billion IoT devices will be in use around the world by 2050. Time-pressed consumers are already turning to technology for greater convenience and efficiency, both in their personal lives and in their home environment. With modern lives only getting busier by the day, home automation is sure to increase in popularity. But, what can consumers expect from the home automation space this year? Here are top five trends in home automation for consumers to take note of in 2022:
Solar goes smart
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Homebuyers are starting to seek out properties that already have solar panels or solar geysers installed and which can be combined with smart products for hassle-free power-saving and off-grid convenience. Although solar power requires an initial upfront investment, the system pays for itself within a few years and maintenance requirements are low. By adding smart devices, such as plugs, isolators and controllers, limited solar power resources can be directed to where they are most needed by switching plugs on and off.
“Given South Africa’s sunny climate, adding solar power to your home should be high on the list of every renovator,” says Larry Barnes, product manager at CBI-electric: low voltage. “Remember to combine this with a smart isolator and controller so that you can maximise the energy savings with a customised schedule.”
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Integration that works for you
Smart homes are rising in popularity because they offer the ability to customise your environment so that it is perfectly suited to you and your family’s needs. A smart home should work better than before, and that’s why, ideally, the smart infrastructure should be integrated and controlled from a single app.
Rather than splitting your attention across multiple operating systems, look for seamless integration which reduces stress and improves your control.
By adding schedules that fit your lifestyle – for example, turning off the geyser during work hours when a shower is unlikely – as well as trigger events that take account of weather forecasts or remote overrides – your smart lifestyle can be tailor-made for you.
Streamlined security
Upgrade your home security by adding automated lighting and sensors that can be activated remotely and scheduled according to your lifestyle and habits. For example, if you frequently come home late, then you can schedule your porch light to switch on in time for your arrival, so you don’t waste time fiddling for the right key in the dark.
Security will continue to be a key concern for all South Africans in 2022. Smart security is a property upgrade that gives you peace of mind so that you can relax and focus on what’s most important to you.
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Bring your own automation
When setting up a smart home, portability and mobility are important to consider. You’re investing in an environment that’s perfectly suited to your needs – so what happens when you move? When you install smart features, keep the old infrastructure that you’re replacing so that you can replace it when you leave and don’t have to leave technology behind which can be reused. Smart plugs are particularly useful for this, as they are easy to install and work with existing systems. If you’re setting up a smart home for the first time, one or two smart plugs are an easy, accessible way to try out what works for you.
On the other hand, if you’re leaving town for a few days, you no longer have to worry about whether you left the geyser on before hitting the highway. Simply grab your phone and navigate to your smart home app to switch it off remotely.
Smart homes become a lifestyle
As connectivity becomes more seamless, we’re starting to expect time-saving convenience wherever we are. Smart technology should make your life easier, and home automation is part of that. Eventually, everyone will expect smart benefits from their home. In designing your smart home, think about what’s most important to you and prioritise accordingly. Smart lighting, entertainment, cleaning and convenience are all possible. This is an opportunity to exercise complete creative control for a home that works for you.
Consumers who are looking at implementing a smart home will find smart plugs, isolators and controllers an easy, cost-effective and convenient way to design an environment that is flexible enough to work for their needs, wherever they are. Smart plugs can be used to turn any appliance into a smart device, because it gives you scheduling ability and remote access.
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