Smart homes are all the rage and a surefire way to increase the value of your property. Not only are smart homes incredibly convenient, comfortable, and desirable, they often also save money in the long-run.
The downsides? It’s a big upfront investment, and you may not be able to install all the devices yourself; some of them will require a professional. But which ones? Luckily, you can review the smart security options and decide for yourself which ones are worth it and which aren’t.
Smart lights
Anytime you’re messing with the electrical wiring, it’s a good idea to stay hands-off and just allow a professional to do it. If you don’t know exactly what you’re doing, it can be dangerous, and not just that, but it’s a pretty complex job, depending on how big your home is, how many lights you’ve got, and how customizable you want them to be.
If you have a large home with several types of lighting that you want total control over in order to create a very specific atmosphere, then it’s recommended that you just leave it in the capable hands of a professional. That way, you’ll end up with the most efficient bulbs and the best system to achieve the final result you’re dreaming of.
Smart cameras
Security is a huge concern for a lot of homeowners, so it’s natural that you want to introduce as many systems as possible to be able to have control and full awareness of your home’s immediate surroundings. Smart cameras allow you to check the 24/7 feed anytime you like, no matter where you are, to make sure everything is okay.
You can do it yourself, but why run the risk of doing something wrong, or not ending up with the best possible system? This is something that’s better left to professionals. Since once again, this involves wiring, connecting to the internet, and a general know-how of tech. When it comes to smart home upgrades, if you want something done properly, you don’t do it yourself, you leave it to the professionals!
Smart locks
Along the same vein, when it comes to security installations, you can never be too careful. And with good reason – you don’t want to inadvertently leave your home vulnerable because you overlooked something.
With smart locks, the idea is that the door automatically locks itself and you don’t need a physical key; you use a keypad and the code is easily changed. It seems simple enough to install, but if you make a wrong move, then you might find yourself in a situation where your code doesn’t work, or the door doesn’t lock or unlock properly. Getting stuck on either side of the door is not great, so this one is worth more care.
Smart thermostat
Smart thermostats are some of the most popular smart home devices among homeowners and renters alike. It’s easy to see why: they provide a level of comfort and convenience that is impossible with traditional thermostats.
Who doesn’t want the ability to get their home nice and toasty before they step out of bed or before they arrive home? Better yet, smart thermostats are some of the most environmentally-friendly and cost-saving smart appliances out there.
It’s tempting to install them yourself – how hard can it be? And for some of the less complex systems, you may be able to do it. But if we’re talking about any of the more complex appliances, then you’re better off hiring someone, just to make sure you’re getting the optimum efficiency.
How much does installation cost?
Like all similar services, the total cost of installation will vary, and depend on the local market, the person’s competence, and the complexity of the service. If someone comes over to install your TV, you won’t get charged as much as you will do to install a home-wide audio system.
However, some of the smaller devices and services can be installed for as little as $50 if you take advantage of services from Best Buy and similar stores. Bigger systems may cost more. Say you have a large home and need to install smart lighting or smart thermostats – that’s going to be a bigger job.
The best thing is to call around and get some quotes for installation from a handful of different professionals in the area, that’ll give you an idea of what to expect.
What smart installations can you DIY?
But what if you’re naturally handy? You know your way around a screwdriver, you change your own lightbulbs, and aren’t afraid of a challenge. Most of these installations can be done on your own, as long as you’ve done this before and aren’t a total beginner.
But if you’re looking for smart devices that are easier to install, you may consider sticking to the more basic ones. Smart doorbells are a great entry-level device with a quick and easy installation. It’s also one of the lower-end devices, so you’re not investing a lot of money. It’s a great way to enhance the privacy and security of your home.
Smart assistants are also pretty straight-forward to install, as long as you’re relatively tech-savvy. It’s only a matter of setting up the connection and less about needing to wire it to your entire house.
Any wireless devices are also simple to install with virtually no risk of getting electrocuted. You rely heavily on Wi-Fi, so you just need to make sure that you’ve got that in tip-top shape and you’re pretty much good to go.
Bottom line
Smart home upgrades are high up on home buyers’ list of features they’re looking for in a dream property. Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s value or you’re just after the comfort and convenience of automation, you’ll need someone to install your devices.
While some of these can certainly be taken on by someone who is experienced and tech-savvy, others are best left to the professionals. Have you ever been electrocuted while trying to mess with the wiring on your appliances? Then perhaps it’s better to call someone.