One common finding in today’s typical residence is the presence of some type of home automation system.

Are you aware of what home automation means?

This is a sophisticated-sounding term that encompasses a wide variety of devices—think systems that automatically power on, off, or synchronize things like outdoor lights, sprinkler systems, security cameras/alarms, thermostats, and many more.

While there is certainly a multitude of benefits to home automation systems, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are right for everyone’s needs, lifestyle, or even budget.

The pros and cons of smart thermostats, alarms, and other devices are something to seriously consider if you’re thinking of converting or upgrading your current configuration.

Pros and Cons of Home Automation Systems

Let’s review the benefits of “smart” home solutions provided by various home automation systems.

Smart Homes “Pros”

There are many positive effects associated with using these types of configurations.

• Safety—one of the most apparent “pros” of having automated alarm systems, outdoor lighting setups (think security lights or floodlights) is an increased feeling of safety, whether you’re home or not.
  • Even being able to do things like automatically close blinds, close a garage door, or switch on certain interior lights at certain times of day at the click of a button or preset time affords a sense of safety and security to many.
  • The ability to check in on loved ones, pets, or your property when no one else is home is a way to get peace of mind.
• Convenience—as is the allure of most technological devices, the ease and convenience of being able to control things remotely is very appealing to most consumers.
  • Instead of having to physically drive to or visit your home or property when you’re away, being able to rely on automation devices is a simpler, more efficient way to get things done.
• Energy-saving potential—in addition to safety, security, and convenience, utilizing home automation systems in your home also offers energy-saving benefits.
  • Adjusting your smart thermostat when you’re away, for example, is one small change that can quickly add up to substantial savings, so when you’re looking for a way to cut costs, this is one area that home automation integration can definitely help you reach your goal.
  • There are many smart appliances on the market that can be synced with other devices to add to the cash-saving potential home automation has to offer.
  • Tech-savvy gadgets from coffee makers to water sprinklers can be synced and remotely controlled to your wallet’s benefit.

Disadvantages of Smart Home Setups

Just like there are many advantages, there are automation disadvantages to consider as well. Here are some of the most argued disadvantages of automation.

• Complex installation
  • Whether you decide to install a home automation device on your own or hire a professional to do so, the more complex a system is, the more time, money—or both—it can end up costing you.
  • Decide how much your budget and patience level can handle before taking the plunge with one of the more elaborate or intricate systems/devices.
• Compatibility concerns
  • The age of your home, as well as the level of upgrades or improvements that have been made, will ultimately impact a smart home automation system’s compatibility with your home.
  • The older or more outdated your home’s technology (or lack of it) is, the more complicated achieving compatibility will be.
  • Potential compatibility concerns are definitely a major factor to consider when debating a smart home upgrade.
• Cost counts
  • In addition to compatibility and installation factors, the cost is yet another potential “con” or drawback of smart home automation integration.
  • Although energy and related cost savings are possible with the implementation of smart remote technology, the initial cost of the system coupled with any associated installation costs may outweigh the financial benefits you’re expecting to see.

Ultimately, weighing the pros and cons of implementing smart home automation technology into your home and daily lifestyle is something that should be carefully considered to make the most positive decision, which will vary from household to household.

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