Life is hard enough as it is. There never seem to be enough hours in the day, and for most people, it feels like the grind never stops. Luckily, we live in an age of technology which means we can make our lives easier and less strenuous with the touch of a button and the flick of a switch.
The technology used to be limited to just computers and, more recently, mobile phones, but smart homes is fast becoming the norm. There are so many different types of technologies you can integrate into your home, and we’ve made a list of the top five essential things we think every home should have – especially if you’re looking to make life easier for yourself.
Video Doorbell
If you don’t know what a video doorbell is, you must’ve been living under a rock for the last two years. Video doorbells are exactly what the name suggests: a doorbell with video camera functionality. Most people have one nowadays, but if you don’t, you should definitely look at getting one. They offer many benefits, namely keeping you safer and more secure because you can see who is knocking at your door or passing by your property.
In addition to the safety features, video doorbells are excellent for package deliveries. We live in a world of online shopping which means most of us to have several deliveries a week. The problem is, with work and other commitments, being home to receive packages is not always possible, and it’s frustrating to have to wait for a re-attempted delivery or to have to go to the post office to collect a parcel. Video doorbells allow you to communicate with delivery drivers directly, therefore enabling you to negotiate a safe spot so you never miss another parcel again.
Sensor Lights
In a nod to video doorbells and added security, sensor lights are a worthwhile investment. They are most commonly used outdoors near windows and property entrances to deter intruders, but they can be used indoors, too. Smart lights automatically switch on when they detect motion within the home; perfect for families and those who frequently get up at night to use the bathroom. With sensor lights, you’re minimizing the risk of trips and falls, and you don’t have to worry about people not switching the lights off when they leave a room.
AC/DC Converters
Is there anything more annoying than an unreliable output? We think not. The good news is, you no longer have to rely on an AC current. AC currents are what electronic outputs generate, even though most new devices use a DC current. AC is when the current goes in two ways (alternating current), and DC is when it goes one way (direct current). DC is generally more reliable which is why it’s commonly used in medical and telecommunication settings. With an AC to DC converter, you can enjoy the reliability that public buildings do, so you don’t need to worry about a plug socket wavering and losing power.
Smart Heater/Air Conditioning Unit
We all the feeling of getting home to a sweltering house in summer and a freezing house in winter, and we all also know how frustrating it can be to have to wait half an hour for the air conditioning/heating to kick in. Smart heaters and A/C units allow you to download an app to your phone and switch on the heaters or A/C in time for your arrival home. This is especially useful for monitoring your energy consumption and reducing your bills, as well as ensuring you can get on with your chores when you get home instead of waiting to get to a reasonable temperature.
Wi-Fi Booster
Most people have struggled with Wi-Fi issues within their homes. Larger cities and suburban areas tend to have ultra-fast broadband access, but those in more rural areas struggle to get the same coverage and often have to make do with slower internet that only works in certain areas of the house. If this sounds like you and you haven’t invested in a Wi-Fi booster, this is your sign to get one. It won’t make your internet faster, but it will make it so that you have a more reliable connection in rooms away from the router, such as upstairs.
Summary
Will you be investing in any of the five technologies listed above? Doing so might just make your life a touch easier!
