Smart home technology . . .
When it comes to renovation upgrades, we’re lucky to have access to a lot of smart tech. This means that parts of our home can (affordably!) be automated to add ease and functionality to everyday life. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t excited to have complete control with just the click of a button. Isn’t that every 21st century homeowner’s dream?
I’ve rounded up the smart home technology we’ve purchased for @ourmidmodreno, with a short description of what the product does and why we’ve chosen to include it. Feel free to use my contact form or leave a comment below if you have any questions. The home renovation process has required a lot of behind-the-scenes homework, and I’m more than happy to share everything we’ve learned.
Leviton
When we bought our home, Jake and I made a list of products we wanted to include in our renovation. Leviton’s Decora Smart tech was at the top of the list. (Guys, I’m so excited because we’ve teamed up to highlight their line of smart home light switches, dimmers and plug-ins in our big reveal. It’s going to be good.) But, back to the tech . . . Their collection seamlessly syncs with any iOS or Android device through a user-friendly app. Plus, it can even be controlled with your trusty Amazon Echo or Google Home Assistant.
You can find Leviton’s line at Home Depot or via Amazon.
Nest
Chances are, you’ve probably heard about Nest and their line of smart home technology. Their products are beautifully designed, controlled through an app on your phone and offer a range of cost-saving functionality. The Learning Thermostat, for example, is known for it’s ability to program itself, then pay for itself. It builds a schedule around your temperature preferences, the seasonal changes and any time you might be away. Cue the Eco Temperature mode–it saves you both energy + money.
I’m also looking forward to using their Passcode Deadbolt Lock. Our plans call to install one on our main point of everyday entry. It allows you to check if the door is closed, gives a temporary passcode for visitors and monitors movement in and out (all from a click in the app!). As a mom, the piece of mind will be worth every single penny.
Here are a few more Nest products we’re using in our new space:
Hello Video Doorbell (front door)
Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm (throughout entire home)
Outdoor Security Camera (installed around exterior)
Amazon Echo + Echo Dot
We ask Alexa every singe day to tell us the weather and play us our favorite songs. I (definitely) gushed about the Amazon Dot in my 15 Baby Must-Haves for New Moms post. We have a Dot device in our bedrooms and an Echo in our main living space. Now that we’re integrating more smart home technology into our renovation, the Amazon Echo + Echo Dot will be even more handy. Essentially, we’ll be able to control all the workings of our new house by voice: ‘Alexa, turn on the lights’ (via Leviton) or ‘Alexa, change the temperature setting to 70 degrees’ (via Nest). It’s definitely a homeowner WIN.
You can find Amazon’s smart tech here.
Sonos (sound systems)
It’s been years since we’ve had a ‘proper’ sound system to accompany our movie nights. And, truth be told, our Mariah Carey jam sessions could use a little oomph. Thankfully, we pulled the trigger on a few Sonos wireless speakers. The compact designs are powerful enough to fill a whole room with sound, and they can stream your favorite tunes via Wi-Fi. This means one speaker can suit any space, be it the family room in the basement or out on the deck during a family BBQ. We cannot wait to put ours to good use!
Psst! Sign up for the Sonos.com email list to get free shipping on your next purchase.
Are you a fan of smart tech for your home? What devices do you love?
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