Smart Owner, Smart House: Gadgets for the Tech-Savvy Homeowner

Home has changed a lot. Especially when it comes to technology. There are high-tech gadgets that can make your life easier, and your home safer. But with so many options, how do you know what’s right for you? Here is a quick list to make your home tech savvy and up to date.

New Sockets

Sure, the electrical socket hasn’t changed much in recent years, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t. With so many smartphones and mobile devices, USB ports are more and more important when it comes to charging your devices. The U-Socket from Fastmac has changed up the electrical outlet by adding two USB ports directly adjacent to the conventional outlet. This is a convenience in the household clearing up cluttered cords and saving you on energy costs, as many appliances zap power even when they’re not being used. The U-Socket is green and convenient

Smart Locks

Lockitron is a smart lock you place over your deadbolt. With this device, you can lock and unlock your door with your smartphone. With a touch of a button you can let your people into the house. With Lockitron’s simple, two-button app, you can grant access to your friends and family so that they have the key as well.

August is another smart lock that functions similarly. And like Lockitron, August isn’t connected to your Wi-Fi or electricity, so there’s no chance of a system shut down. There are other options as well, so it’s important to research the market if you’re interested in a smart lock.

Home Security

It’s important to keep your family and possessions safe. If you’re going to have a tech-savvy home, there’s no reason to skip on the technology that keeps it safe. Lorex has a large selection of outdoor security camera systems, including high-tech night vision options.

Ninja Block is a low-cost security option. The small device syncs with sensors on windows and doors. If they’re triggered, the device sends you a text.

Another stand-alone system is the Rovio Home Sentry. The roving security patrol makes its rounds on your floor. When it detects motion, it records so you can track down what’s happening inside your home.

Smart Thermostat

Everyone wants to save energy. It’s not just on trend to go green, it’s the right thing to do! An unprogrammed thermostat can waste 20 percent of your heating bill. But with Smart Thermostats like Nest, Ecobee3, and Honeywell’s Lyric, there’s no need to be constantly fussing about the heating bill. Nest is a smart, learning thermostat that, after a couple days of consistent use, will learn your come-and-go habits. In just a week Nest will have your apartment warm for you when you get home from work, and will cool things down when you leave or go to bed.

Ecobee3 goes in a different direction. Ecobee3 uses a sensor that can determine if anyone is home, and even what rooms are occupied and adjust the temperature accordingly. The Lyric system by Honeywell, links your thermostat with an app on your smartphone. You’ll be able to adjust the temperature anywhere you are so it is toasty for you in the winter and cool as in the summer. With Lyric, you’re always in control.

~ David