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Home Automation
Home automation is the system by which your heating, lighting, appliances and other systems are centrally controlled to provide more convenience, energy efficiency and security. This concept was initially brought in when managing the environment inside big high-rise buildings. Latterly, it was introduced to single homes as well.
Residential automation integrates all the electrical devices in the house and allows you, the home owner, to control activities even like watering the yard, pet feeding, changing the amount of lighting to create a different ambiance. Everything is connected via a computer network and can be controlled by a home computer or even remotely by the internet. Home automation is built in during construction by planning out the wiring and accessibility through the walls, power outlets, number of rooms etc. to accommodate the technology that is required. Wireless systems can however be fitted into existing homes as they reduce the need for wiring changes. These systems communicate via existing power wiring or infrared signals that have a central controller. However, there may be a need to install extra network sockets in the rooms where you have appliances and AC power receptacles.
Home Automation Uses
- HVAC – heating, ventilation, air conditioning solutions that include temperature and humidity control. This can both save money and help the environment by effectively managing the use of these electrical appliances even when the home owner is not physically in the house.
- Lighting – here again the home owner is able to conserve electricity by switching off lights and or even regulating the use of lighting within the home. Remote control of lighting also allows the homeowner to control the amount of light in the house with dimmers etc. to create a certain ambiance.
- Audio and Video – Multiple audio and video sources can be controlled in more than one room.
- Security – A controlled and integrated security system is of great value to all home owners. The home owner can remotely watch the feed from his/her security camera from a remote location. These systems can also include motion sensors and can also detect gas leaks, water leaks and even fires.
- Intercom systems can also be placed in multiple rooms to allow for ease of communication. This system is very useful when a home has young children and also elderly who find it hard to move around.
- Other systems – also include turning on the coffee pot, opening the garage door, putting water and feed for pets, pool pumps, sumps, and watering the plants.
The ability of household devices to interconnect, talk to each other and be controlled via monitoring signals takes away from yet another mundane task, which is the physical monitoring and controlling of all these devices. These systems are very useful for home owners who have young children in the house. The rate of accidents can be managed and even reduced. Furthermore, these remote control networks are invaluable for older or disabled people who are restricted in their movement.
Home automation is not a D.I.Y task, and MUST be installed and maintained by professional electrical contractors who are familiar with the process.
For home automation work submit the form on your right to receive electrician estimates.