Modernizing your home does not need to cost a lot nor does it mean you must undertake a remodel or renovation. You can add simple items that enhance the home’s livability and convenience.
You can make a significant difference in your home by adding a few items that newer homes feature. You have probably read about the growing popularity of smart homes. You do not have to build a new home to have a smart home. You can easily and pretty cheaply upgrade your existing home to a smart home by adding a few gadgets to it. You do not need to install special wiring in your walls. Making your home a smart space can be done in six steps.
- Recessed Lighting
Improve your lighting and make the home brighter. You can do this by adding recessed lighting. This method of illuminating the home provides a hint of luxury without the high cost. It removes clutter and uses no visible cords. You can use recessed lighting to feature artwork, a painting, or to light a workspace or dining area.
- Security System Enhancements
When you install a security system, you either get a wired or wireless system that typically comes with a keypad just inside the interior of your home. Adding a security key fob, a wireless remote control device lets you arm and disarm the alarm, unlock doors and perform other security steps from the fob. Most of these fobs also include a panic button, so you can click the button if you see an intruder or someone approaches you at your vehicle. The fob lets you arm your security system from anywhere in your home or yard, convenient for if you already went to bed and want to remain snuggled under the covers rather than run downstairs to arm the system at the keypad.
- Smart Thermostats
Update your home by adding a smart thermostat so you can control your heating and cooling system from your cell phone. Call your electric or gas provider to learn which thermostats work best with their systems or the HVAC you have installed. These gadgets let you control your HVAC system from your mobile device or computer. If by some lucky chance, you get off work early, you can turn on your air conditioner from your phone. You can also set a schedule for the temperature of your home, so it only heats or cools when you need it to do so.
- Smart Appliances
Update your kitchen appliances. Another smart option, smart appliances, save you money by reducing your electrical usage. You can have these appliances wired into a larger system or you can control them from a standalone app. Smart refrigerators help you track groceries, prevent food spoilage and more.
- Wi-Fi Router
The MiFi you use on your cell phone or the direct connection to your computer could become stronger and serve your whole house if you switch to using a Wi-Fi router. While you cannot use it with a cell phone MiFi, you can switch to a regular Internet connection and distribute its connection throughout the entire house. Newer routers provide even distribution of signal and pairing them with Wi-Fi extenders means the signal can reach throughout the yard as well.
- Smart Hubs
Whether you choose a smart hub from Amazon, Google or another manufacturer, you can make life simpler by just speaking a voice command to control items like music, lights, HVAC, door and window locks, etc. Some of these smart devices offer a button you can push to order from delivery restaurants like Domino’s or services like DoorDash.
Finding The Technology
All of the items discussed in this article you can find at your local hardware store or major retail outlet. Your local Home Depot or Wal-Mart carries these types of items.
If you are not a techie, you might want to consult with a home designer or someone in the construction industry first. This ensures you purchase the appropriate items that work well together. You need all of the technology to be compatible. None of the items cost more than $500 and all can be self-installed. You can turn your home into a smart home with a simple visit to the hardware store.
