I'm in the middle of a kitchen remodel and other work on the house for the DW and I first decided to add some automated lights to the kitchen. I'm one of those who rarely can just dip their toe into something, so after becoming fascinated with the research, I've moved on to setting up the whole house with the latest in home automation.
So far I only have one smart light/video camera (Kuna) at the front door and my Nexx wi-fi garage door controller hooked up. As the kitchen and other things get completed I will ultimately have a host of other systems coming online including lots of audio, more security, thermostat/smoke alarm, smart irrigation controller, locks and lighting all hooked up to a smart hub and controlled via my home network.
So far, with only the two things that are hooked up, I have a lot of new, useful functionality. My garage door actually opens when I drive up. No hands required - I already feel like Batman! I can't wait for it all to be finished!
The technology finally seems well-thought-out and very easy to use. The systems are all modular, but integrate seamlessly through a smart hub. Control is via iPhone or via Alexa, so my wife will be able to turn on her kitchen lighting, stereo and stove hood; and set timers, convert measurements and make shopping lists all without touching a thing - at least that's the goal. I've read these systems are helping the physically handicapped and I imagine will be equally helpful for seniors as well. They should also help us save money on water, gas and electricity.
Has anyone taken the plunge or done research on setting up their home? What has been your experience so far? Any unanticipated benefits/pitfalls? I can tell you that I am already getting a lot more notifications on my iPhone.
FWIW, I had an Amazon consultant come out for free - I just set an appointment online - to answer my questions and talk about the different Alexa-compatible home automation products. It's an amazing service, although the techs are also still learning about all the many different products and their capabilities.
So far I only have one smart light/video camera (Kuna) at the front door and my Nexx wi-fi garage door controller hooked up. As the kitchen and other things get completed I will ultimately have a host of other systems coming online including lots of audio, more security, thermostat/smoke alarm, smart irrigation controller, locks and lighting all hooked up to a smart hub and controlled via my home network.
So far, with only the two things that are hooked up, I have a lot of new, useful functionality. My garage door actually opens when I drive up. No hands required - I already feel like Batman! I can't wait for it all to be finished!
The technology finally seems well-thought-out and very easy to use. The systems are all modular, but integrate seamlessly through a smart hub. Control is via iPhone or via Alexa, so my wife will be able to turn on her kitchen lighting, stereo and stove hood; and set timers, convert measurements and make shopping lists all without touching a thing - at least that's the goal. I've read these systems are helping the physically handicapped and I imagine will be equally helpful for seniors as well. They should also help us save money on water, gas and electricity.
Has anyone taken the plunge or done research on setting up their home? What has been your experience so far? Any unanticipated benefits/pitfalls? I can tell you that I am already getting a lot more notifications on my iPhone.
FWIW, I had an Amazon consultant come out for free - I just set an appointment online - to answer my questions and talk about the different Alexa-compatible home automation products. It's an amazing service, although the techs are also still learning about all the many different products and their capabilities.
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