When you’re building a new home, you are in the perfect position to incorporate all of the latest technology in its design. After all, since the builder is already installing outlets, lights, and other basics anyway, why not include the latest high-tech features as well?
Learn more about some of the most popular high-tech features people are asking us to put in their homes.
1. USB Outlets
USB outlets are probably the most convenient option these days. Rather than having to search for a wall charger every time you need to charge your phone, tablet, or any electronic device, you simply plug it directly into the wall. You still need the cord, but it’s easier to keep track of those. In particular, ask your builder to install these in the parts of your home that will get the most use. For instance, you might want them installed by your night stands so you can charge overnight or the kitchen so you can charge while you make dinner.
2. Smart Bulbs
LED lights can save you a lot of money on energy costs, but smart bulbs are even better. Depending on the type of bulb you choose, you can turn the lights on from another room, change the colour of the lights, or dim the lights to set a romantic mood. Sure, it might seem a little frivolous, but if you’re already making your home smarter, these bulbs should be on your list.
3. Doorbell Video Camera
You’re sitting comfortably on your couch binging the latest Netflix series when the doorbell rings. Do you really have to get up? If you have a doorbell video camera, like Ring, you’ll instantly know the answer. When a visitor pushes the doorbell, it starts the video camera and sends the video to your smartphone. If it’s just a sales rep, you can stay right where you are. If it’s the mail carrier with a package, though, you’ll know to get up. These video cameras will send the video to your phone no matter where you are. This means you’ll be able to see whether your package was delivered while you were at work.
4. WiFi Enabled Appliances
A full range of Wi-Fi enabled appliances will make you feel like you’re finally living in the future you dreamed about when you were a kid. You can start pre-heating the oven from the other room or have the air conditioner tell you when you need a new filter. You can even set things up to automatically order supplies like laundry soap when you run out!
5. Smart Locks
Smart locks offer extra convenience. You can control them with your smartphone, and most will automatically unlock when your phone is near. This makes it easy to unlock the door when your hands are full of grocery bags, and you’ll also be able to unlock the door for your kids if they gets home before you. Some also integrate with the video doorbell if that’s something you’re interested in.
6. Learning Thermostats
Programmable thermostats were ground-breaking when they first came out, but they require you to know what your schedule is like. You can override any of the settings, but if you forget to change the thermostat when you leave, you’re stuck. Learning thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat do things automatically. They learn what temperature you like and what your schedule is, then make adjustments. Most also allow you to access them remotely with your smartphone so you can make changes if you forgot.
7. Wireless Automated Lighting Systems
Wireless automated lighting systems like Caseta wireless are similar to smart bulbs, but they’re more advanced. With this type of system, you can pre-set a “theme” like the type of lighting you’d want for eating dinner, watching movies, or working at home. Once you have the settings, you can instantly change the lights with the press of a button.
8. iSmartAlarm
Edmonton is a fairly safe city, but a home alarm system can make you feel even safer. It can also reduce your homeowners’ insurance premiums. The iSmartAlarm system is convenient. It allows you to monitor your home from anywhere, and you don’t have to pay monthly fees to keep the service active. Just set it up once, and you’ll be good to go.
It’s fun to think about all the tech gadgets you could have in your home. No matter which options you choose, you’re sure to be happy with the results!
Photo credits: home control, usb, smart home
