Home automation companies make devices that control the lights, locks, security systems and appliances in your house from a remote location via a smartphone or computer. You can set up home automation systems to do everything from turn on the kitchen lights when you get up in the morning to close a west-facing window at noon each day. Home automation can help elderly and disabled homeowners live safely in their homes by enabling them to control things that may be difficult or impossible for them to do on their own. It can also make your home safer for young children by ensuring that electronics, appliances and features are not accessible to them.
The top home automation companies make products like smart doorbells, smart alarm clocks and intelligent thermostats that connect to a central hub that controls your whole house or a specific room. They also offer software that can send commands to your device from a mobile app and use sensors to trigger actions. These systems can include things like voice activation, which is a great feature for people with visual impairments. Some systems are designed to monitor and report on your security status and can notify you on your smartphone if someone is trying to break in.
Some of the best home automation companies are big-name technology brands that are already well-known to most consumers. Apple, for example, is known for its smartphones and tablet computers, but the company has also become one of the leading home automation companies. The home automation system that Apple offers is called HomeKit, and it allows you to control a variety of devices, including security cameras and smart doorbells. You can manage all of these devices through the Home app on your iPhone or Mac Book.
Google is another of the leading home automation companies, offering a variety of hardware and software for your home. Its flagship product is the Nest thermostat, but it also has several other options. Its Home app lets you control your heating and cooling, lighting and other devices using voice commands. The company also has other connected products, including speakers, TVs and home audio/video systems.
When shopping for a home automation company, it’s important to look at the company’s reputation and the features of its products. You should also ask if the company charges monthly service fees in addition to a one-time installation fee. It’s also a good idea to consider the company’s privacy policies, as some home automation companies can collect personal information about your behavior and activity inside your house.
Other things to keep in mind when choosing a home automation company are customer support and the cost of installation. Some companies may have a call center that’s available around the clock, while others only provide email or online chat support. You should also read the fine print of a company’s contract to find out if it has any cancellation or early termination fees. You should also read reviews to find out whether a company has a good track record.