The beauty of home automation is that your options are virtually unlimited. The challenge is deciding just how far you want to go.
A Basic Definition
For some it may be something as simple as remote or automatic control of a few
lights. For others, security may be the central application. Still others may
choose to install advanced controllers using motion detectors, biometric door
locks or voice recognition. As a very basic definition, we tend to refer to home
automation as anything that gives you remote or automatic control of things
around the home.
Adding home automation to an existing home is surprisingly affordable and simple. The average product costs less than $100 and requires no new wires.
We at Ennoble Design think that home automation should be what you want it to
be. Whatever your automation project might be, we're confident that using it
will make life around the home more convenient, safe and fun!
What Can I Control?
Lighting
Probably the most popular control category and a great way to get involved with
home automation. Starter kits begin at $30 or so and are plug-and-play easy to
install. Dim fixtures you could never dim before, control them from anywhere in
the house (or world via the Internet).
Security Systems & Access Control
Have your home call you and/or loved ones if there is an alert status. You can
save money on security monitoring services or even monitor for non-traditional
security events like water in the laundry room or basement. Additionally,
Smarthome products include devices which will allow you to unlock the front door
to let friends in or close the garage door from your office via the web.
Home Theater & Entertainment
Just imagine replacing that pile of remotes with just one controller. Now,
imagine not having to know all 10 steps to starting up your home theater - just
press the HBO icon and your home automation products/system will do the rest.
Built-in speakers are especially popular with homeowners as they provide
beautiful sound throughout the house while adding no clutter whatsoever.
Phone Systems
Phone systems which are usually used for small business applications are
surprisingly convenient in the home. With caller ID and a home automation
controller you can even screen your calls for only those you wish to cause your
phone to ring. Voice control software turns every phone in your home into a
remote controller. How would you like for your vacuum cleaner to turn off when
your telephone rings?
Thermostats
Remote control thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature from bed at night
or even from a cell phone while on your way home (or to your 2nd home!). They
can even trigger a notice to you if the temperature gets too low (freezing
pipes) or too high (pets, plants, etc.).
Irrigation
Have your sprinklers turn on only when it's dry. Some of our customers even turn
the sprinklers on when there's motion in the yard at unwanted times - imagine
someone trying to explain the wet clothes to the police.
Networking
Home automation can be accomplished using various types of connectivity like
your computer network or the internet. Your home computer can even be set up as
a voice activated control station with complete interactivity.
...and Almost Anything Else You Can Imagine
What's great is that many of today's home automation products need no new wires - so they are perfect to retrofit into an existing home. But if you are building new home, or doing a major remodel, please consider adding networking, audio, video and control wiring while it is easy and relatively inexpensive, later on you'll be happy you did
