A smart home means your home has a smart home system that connects with your appliances to automate specific tasks and is typically remotely controlled. You can use a smart home system to program your sprinklers, set and monitor your home security system and cameras, or control appliances like your refrigerator or air conditioning and heating.

At Constellation we love how energy-efficient smart homes are, because they save you precious time and money while also conserving energy!

What are the benefits of a smart home?

Many Americans are looking into smart homes ideas, how smart homes work, or specific task automation for benefits like these:

• Smart homes allow you to have greater control of your energy use, all while automating things like adjusting temperature, turning on and off lights, opening and closing window treatments, and adjusting irrigation based on the weather.
• Smart homes provide insights into energy use that can help you become more energy efficient and mindful of ecological factors.
• Smart homes can pinpoint areas where you’re using more energy than you need to, allowing you to cut back in those areas and save money.

And while it might sound like just another passing fad to some, the smart home—like the smartphone—is here to stay.

Are smart home devices energy efficient?

Smart home devices are not always energy efficient, but most can be utilized in ways that help you conserve energy. When you have smart home appliances, lights, or a smart thermostat, you control when and how these will turn on and function. Therefore, you have more control over your energy usage and are more likely to change your energy consumption habits.

How do you make your home a smart home?

The short answer is either “all at once” or “one step at a time.” Still, there are a few things everyone will have to do in order to get ready for their new-and-improved home appliances and smart devices.

What is a smart device?

A smart device is any electronic device that can be connected to your smart home system, that can interact with other devices, and that can make some decisions on its own. Televisions, stoves, alarm systems, doorbells, garage doors and stereos are examples of smart devices. Smart devices can be bought separately and over time, making it easy to slowly transform your house into a smart home.

What is a smart home system?

The smart home system is the “hub,” so to speak, of your smart home. Either through a wall-mounted unit or software accessible via the Internet, a smart home system gathers unique information from each of your smart devices or appliances and allows you to control all your devices in one place. Because the smart home market is still emerging, there are several different options for smart home systems or home automation hubs, most of which are only compatible with specific other systems—so be sure to confirm compatibility before purchasing.