Newer home automation systems make it easier than ever to achieve energy efficiency at home. In fact, it’s never been easier to control your home’s core systems from one central point, various points throughout your home or even via the Internet. Among the more common automated systems found in homes today are:
- Heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems (HVAC)
- Lighting
- Entertainment systems
- Security
- Intercoms
HVACs
HVAC automation can include temperature and humidity control. Via an Internet controlled thermostat, a homeowner can remotely control the home’s temperature – turning down the heat in winter when the house is empty or shutting off the air conditioning in the summer. This is not only good for the environment; it can also help you save a considerable amount of money in energy costs.
Lighting
Automated lighting options are among the most popular and can be used to:
- Extinguish all the lights of the house at a predetermined time and date range
- Automatically extinguish the lights in a room after occupants have left
- Automatically turn on the lights if occupants enter a room
- Turn the light on or off with the use of a remote wireless device
- Control the brightness of the lights according to the level of ambient light available, or other criteria
- Change the ambient color of a room via the lights used (mood control)
In addition, you can also invest in natural lighting control, which can raise or draw window shades, drapes and awnings.
Entertainment systems
You can automate your entertainment system by replacing all the different remotes you use for your various systems (TV, DVD, Stereo, Blu-ray, etc.) with a single one. Controlling all your devices through one remote cuts down on both clutter and energy use, thereby increasing your home energy efficiency.
Security
Automated security systems are also very popular but can be expensive. However, they encompass many valuable features such as:
- Select and watch cameras live from an Internet source
- Control cameras to observe activity around a house or business directly from a Monitor or touch panel
- Motion sensors that detect any kind of unauthorized movement and notify the user through the security system or cell phone
- Possible intrusion detection through sensors:
- Of movement
- Of magnetic contact of door/window
- Of glass breaking
- Of pressure changes
Intercoms
Intercoms can be connected to telephones and televisions, allowing users to remotely view and control entry to their houses.
As house automation becomes more affordable, it is also becoming more common. To learn about the house automation options available to you and the energy efficiency options they offer, contact your local certified RESNET Energy Smart Contractor.