Home automation systems improve the overall running of a home by making them more efficient and secure. Other home automation products provide more enjoyment for residents.
In this home automation installation guide, you’ll learn what a home automation system is, types of devices, how to install a home automation system, and more.
Table of Contents
What is a Home Automation System?
A home automation system refers to any smart devices or systems fitted on a property that automate tasks and functions in the home.
The most common home automation devices include those that control:
- Lighting
- Temperature (heating and air conditioning)
- Home security (cameras and alarms)
- Window treatments (blinds, shutters, and curtains)
- Entertainment systems (music and sound)
- Appliances (fridges, kettles, etc.)
These automated systems are controlled by a smartphone, tablet, remote control, or voice assistant (like Alexa or Google Nest).
Home automation devices are commonly compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Voice Assistant. Choose Alexa compatible devices if your home is full of Alexa speakers. Alternatively, Google Nest fans will prefer home automation via Google Voice Assistant.
How to Install a Home Automation System
Home automation systems need to be installed correctly to achieve maximum benefits. Follow the steps below to learn how to install a home automation system.
1. Decide needs and priorities
Before getting started with home automation installation, decide what you want out of it. Consider what people in the house will benefit from the most.
For example, home security cameras provide better protection against break-ins and car thefts. Therefore, these are well suited for easing worries about home invasions and robberies.
If the residents of the property work night shifts, smart window treatments may be the main priority. These can be installed to block out all sunlight at the touch of a button, making the entire home dark regardless of the time.
2. Research costs and establish a budget
Home automation systems can be costly to install. The more you automate, the more expensive the system will be. Research the costs of your chosen systems and set a budget for how much to spend.
Affordable options are available for some systems, like home security cameras and lighting. Other systems and appliances tend to be more expensive, like smart HVAC and entertainment systems.
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3. Choose between a centralized or a DIY system
There are two types of home automation systems; a centralized home automation system or a DIY system made up of individual devices.For example, if you want a DIY home security system, numerous security camera devices are assembled by the user. To automate other areas of the home, you can invest in other individual items. Like automatic blinds, voice command lights, and smart appliances.
Check for Amazon Alexa or Google Voice Assistant compatibility for more seamless DIY home automation installation.
For a centralized system, a specialist is required. Specialists typically visit the home and help you decide the best solution. The large-scale system is then installed, with all devices connecting to each other. Centralized systems are more costly and time-consuming to install.
4. Plan and arrange installation
Once a decision has been made on the type of home automation system, it’s time to plan and prepare installation. This is a crucial step in the process, as some systems require more planning and prep than others.
For example, hardwired devices, like wired home security cameras, alarms, and HVAC systems require the mains electricity supply.
This means that new cables need to be installed. The process of installing new cabling creates a mess, meaning repainting and redecorating is usually necessary.
Wireless devices don’t need connecting to a power supply directly, making them easier to install. Such devices include wireless home security cameras and smart lightbulbs.
Some devices simply require a plug socket, so installation requires sufficient power outlets in the area. Devices that require sockets include smart appliances and entertainment systems.
5. Install and configure devices
The final step in the process is to install and configure the smart devices.
DIY home automation is installed easily without the help of a professional. HVAC or centralized systems need expert installation.
Most smart devices connect to a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Others respond to voice commands from speaker
Configuration is the quickest part of the process. Once completed, the systems are adjusted as necessary, and the benefits of a smart home enjoyed.
Types of Home Automation Devices
A range of tasks are automated in the home via different smart home devices. The main types of home automation devices include:
1. Security devices and systems
The most popular home automation devices are home security systems, like cameras and alarms. Recent statistics show that over 50 million households in the US have a video surveillance system installed.
These devices protect properties against break-ins and home invasions. They also provide more protection against car thefts, even if the car is parked in a garage.
Some households also install these systems to keep an eye on pets (like dogs left at home while the owners are at work) or elderly relatives living alone.
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2. HVAC systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC) are also popular home automation devices. These hardwired systems are installed and connected to the main power supply. They cannot be installed as a DIY system.
Features of smart HVAC systems enable homeowners to control thermostats from their smartphones. With automated HVAC, set temperatures even when away from the home, or get notified when filters need changing.
For example, the heating can be turned on when leaving work, so the house is warm when the owner returns home. Or if the air conditioning has been left on when on vacation, it can be turned off using the smartphone to save energy.
3. Lighting systems
Smart lighting systems are a common way to automate the home. These systems are usually installed to make the home more enjoyable to live in, rather than for efficiency or to provide extra security.
For example, mood lights installed in living-dining areas set the scene for parties, romantic dinners, or daytime functions. Motion sensor floor lights can also be installed that light up as you walk past.
Smart lights are also controlled by voice command, meaning lights are turned on and off without having to move a muscle.
4. Window treatment systems
Installing electric blinds and curtains makes life easier for residents. Most electric blinds are controlled via a remote or wall-fitted control system, but more modern solutions are controlled by smartphone or voice command.
5. Entertainment systems
Installing home automation isn’t just about utility. Nowadays, most entertainment systems, including smart speakers and smart TVs, support some form of automation. These are designed to make life more enjoyable at home through increased convenience.
6. Smart appliances
Other popular home automation devices include any type of smart appliance. The most common smart appliances are found in the kitchen or laundry room.
For example, smart kettles and coffee machines activate when users wake up by using a smartphone app.
Smart fridges have cameras installed inside, allowing owners to view what’s in the fridge without opening it. Some refrigerators even detect when a common food item is missing and automatically orders it from the local store for delivery.
FAQ
How should I get started in home automation?
Various systems exist to automate different tasks in the home. To get started with home automation, decide what your priorities are.
For example, if your priorities are to install a home security system, you’ll need to install a professional security alarm system or home security camera devices.
If you want to automate lighting and room temperature control, an automated light and smart HVAC system is best.
Then decide if you want to DIY your system or upgrade to a full home automation system installed by specialists.
Is home automation complicated?
Home automation isn’t complicated, but it depends on what systems or devices are used.
Choosing a centralized system is easier, as it involves getting specialists to help plan, prepare, and install the desired systems. However, it is significantly more expensive.
DIY home automation is slightly more time consuming. Each device needs to be installed individually to automate various tasks in the home. To make the setup easier, most homeowners choose to install devices one step at a time.
For example, a home security camera is researched, purchased, and installed. Then window treatments are installed. After that, a smart entertainment system is purchased, etc.
Conclusion
Home automation systems improve life at home significantly. With various types of devices available, homeowners benefit from better home security, more efficient energy systems, and an easier home life overall.
Preparation is key when automating a home, particularly when installing hardwired devices as a DIY project. Wireless systems are easier to DIY and are usually installed quickly and easily for an affordable price.