User-Friendly Smart Home Upgrades to Try

You don't have to be a digital genius to implement smart technology into your home. In fact, the majority of devices on the market are designed to be installation-friendly. Making these additions to your home can make daily tasks easier, and can actually net you monetary returns. We'll look at five that are simple to set up.

1. Smart Virtual Assistants

Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri: these are all potential options if you're looking for a virtual assistant. Voice-operated and designed for practical use, the idea is to call upon these devices when you're in a pinch. For instance, when your hands are covered in flour and you need to set the oven timer for 10 minutes, all you have to do is ask. Or if you need to convert tablespoons to teaspoons or ounces on the spot, these 'assistants' will give you the answer immediately.

2. Smart Doorbells

Video doorbells are usually simple to install if your home already has doorbell wiring. It works with the infrastructure you already have and allows you to be virtually home even when you're not. Monitor who's approaching the home and speak to them through the doorbell. For instance, if a delivery happens to show up while you're at work or out of town, you can give the driver instructions about where to stow the package so it will be safer until you return.

3. Smart Lightbulbs

Want to dim the lights upon command? Turn them off when you're not at home? Smart lightbulbs can be installed with simple kits to make your life a little easier and your electric bills a little cheaper. LED smart lightbulbs use less energy too, making them better for the environment. You can even get them in different colors which can make for a fun addition to any room.

4. Smart Smoke Detectors

Imagine getting an alert to your phone if your smoke detector goes off, giving you more time to react to a fire if you're not around. Easy to both connect and install, this option is available for carbon monoxide detectors too. These devices will also send you an alert when the battery is starting to die which will make it easier to stay on top of replacements. You might even get a discount on your home insurance for this DIY upgrade.

5. Smart Thermostats

You've likely already heard that it doesn't always pay to turn down your thermostat when you leave - the energy to reheat the room is just too much to justify. But a smart thermostat is precise and intuitive, automatically adjusting when you leave and return home. By using geofencing and voice control, this device works to keep your electrical bills at a bare minimum. These devices usually come with a step-by-step instruction manual and can work with most types of heating and cooling systems.

No matter what type of smart home upgrades are most valuable to you, the goal for all of them is to make your home more functional. When you spend so much time there already, being comfortable is a must. DIY smart home conversation just makes the rewards that much more satisfying.