We live in a world of seemingly endless high-tech devices meant to improve our lives. With smart home technology, you can link multiple devices and create an easy-to-operate central home automation system or “smart home” that makes life easier.
What Exactly is a Smart Home?
“Smart home” is a term used to describe a home (or any building) with appliances and wireless devices that can be monitored and controlled remotely with a cell phone or hub device. A smart home automation system links electronic devices and appliances to save energy, improve security, and allow homeowners to monitor vital systems no matter where they are.
What is Smart Wiring?
WiFi routers, smart TVs, thermostats, and appliances need safe and efficient electrical wiring. Smart wiring is a system that enables the combination of many different types of wiring used around the home into a single platform. Smart wiring allows home systems and sensors to work seamlessly, including lighting, security systems, internet, and audio-visual or home entertainment systems.
A smart wiring installation provides a logical and standardized system that allows easy access to cabling and wiring, making future expansions easier. Smart wiring can carry enormous amounts of data and power, making it ideal for today’s internet-connected devices. Many home builders are now offering smart wiring installation. Older homes can also benefit from upgrading to smart wiring.
Benefits of Smart Home Wiring
1. Reduced Energy Bills
Smart homes are about convenience and efficiency. According to Realtor.com, several smart home devices can offer significant energy savings, including smart thermostats and lighting.
Smart Thermostats – Your HVAC system takes up about half of your total household energy usage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing a smart thermostat can save about 10% a year. Smart thermostats let you program automatic adjustments or make your own, even remotely, based on changing weather conditions.
Smart Lighting – While about half of your energy bill goes to heating and cooling, 25% goes to lighting. Turning off lights when you leave a room is always a good idea, but it’s easy to forget. Automatic timers can significantly reduce wasted energy, but smart lighting takes it further. Using a mobile app, you can see if your lights are on and shut them off no matter where you are. A smart lighting system combined with energy-efficient LED light bulbs can reduce electricity usage and save money.
2. Whole House Surge Protection
Severe weather and power grid problems can happen at any time. Outdated wiring can damage today’s electronic equipment. Power strips and surge protectors can’t always protect expensive electronic devices. With many people working from home, protecting expensive equipment powering home offices is just one reason to install a whole-home surge protector. Combining whole-house surge protection with smart home wiring increases protection from damaging power surges and spikes.
3. Enhanced Wi-Fi Coverage and Connectivity
Whether you work from home, stream movies, or enjoy gaming, a consistent Wi-Fi connection is critical. Upgrading to smart home wiring enhances your Wi-Fi connection, providing improved coverage and connectivity. Smart home wiring connects your entire network and creates an integrated system that eliminates dead spots and improves performance.
4. Improved Security
Smart home wiring provides a more reliable and secure connection for security devices. Whether you have smart locks, a doorbell camera, or a home security system, they are only as reliable as the Wi-Fi network supporting them. Security systems that only rely on an internet connection can be hacked or compromised. A fully integrated home security system gives homeowners maximum security and convenience.
5. Preparation for the Future
Whether you’re building a new home or preparing to automate an older home, installing proper wiring and cabling is vital to setting up a system that works seamlessly with smart devices and appliances. And it’s not just for people who work from home or want to control their thermostats remotely. For many elderly or disabled individuals, smart technology offers them the chance to continue to live safely and independently in their own homes.
Call a Local Trusted Electrician
If you’re planning to install a new security system, smart TV, or other smart appliance, you want to ensure your electrical system is up-to-date and performing well. There are numerous benefits to having your home’s wiring upgraded, including improved safety, efficiency, and protection for expensive electronic devices.
If you’re new to implementing smart technology in your home, starting with a professional electrical inspection is a great idea. While many systems are wireless in operation, some components like control panels require installation. Working with an experienced electrician is the best way to ensure that your home’s electrical system can handle the addition of new appliances or other high-tech devices.
When you need electrical work for your home or business, call Pallardy Electric. We’ve been serving St. Charles and St. Louis counties since 2001. We’re licensed, bonded, and insured for your safety and protection. Call us at (636) 202-1794 to schedule a free estimate.