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Shepherd’s Home Hardware Building Centre
3525 Mill Street, Box 37, Armstrong, BC
Wishing your home was modern, up to date, and sophisticated? Well, you don’t have to buy new to get it there! With today’s smart home devices, you can turn any home into a highly-functional space that anticipates your needs. Shepherd’s Hardware is here to help you make it happen—lights, thermostats, security systems and more to completely change the way you live.
Smart home integration is the connection between various household devices into a centralized system, often controlled through your smartphone or voice commands. This makes your home an automatic and responsive part of your life instead of just a simple place to dwell. You can dim lights, adjust temperature or lock the doors with a single tap.
Most smart home technology works via your wi-fi network, which allows each device to “talk” to each other (and you).
There are several benefits to spending the time and money to tie your home together through the use of technology, here are some of them:
A smart home takes away all the little troubles of the day, and allows you to automate them with both speed and simplicity. Schedule your coffee maker to start brewing at a certain time. Turn off the lights with a custom-programmed voice command. Automate your day and make it work for you.
Smart thermostats and lighting systems can help reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills! A smart thermostat will actually learn your schedule and daily habits to optimize efficiency without sacrificing comfort. BC Hydro even mentions that a simple device like a smart plug can cut down electricity during off-hours.
Security cameras, doorbell cameras, and locks are often people’s first introduction to smart home technology. They let you monitor your home remotely and send alerts if unusual movement or activity is detected. Scheduled, motion-detective lighting is often built-in to deter potential intruders, as well. This kind of security offers you both safety and peace of mind.
Let’s now look at some of the essential smart home devices available on the market today.
We always saw it on TV when we were kids, but now it can be an everyday feature in your home! Smart LED bulbs and wireless dimmer switches allow you to control lighting remotely or via voice commands. BC Hydro notes that smart lighting is one of the most affordable ways to start enhancing both security (making your home look occupied) and efficiency.
Smart thermostats like NEST and ecobee devices will automatically adjust temperature settings based on your routine to optimize both comfort and savings. BC Hydro actually offers rebates on select smart thermostats, making them even more cost-effective long-term. Check out Shepherd’s Hardware for all the latest models and installation advice!
If you’re looking to dip your toe into smart home technology, starting with a security option is the way to do it. Smart doorbell cameras and smart locks are designed for easy DIY installation. Shepherd’s Hardware carries a wide range of security options, and our staff can guide you through the setup, as well.
BC Hydro notes that smart plugs are one of the simplest ways to begin home automation. Every appliance can turn into a piece of smart home technology with a smart plug. Control lamps, coffee makers, or even holiday lights through an app, or schedule them to turn off/on automatically.
So, how do you actually get started with all of this? It’s great to know about all the individual parts, but let’s actually put it all together.
Whether you want to save energy, add security, or make your home more convenient, you have to start somewhere. Invest in the piece of smart home technology most aligned with your initial goal.
Most smart home technology is capable of working independently, but for a seamless experience, you might want to consider a platform like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. These centralized hubs help multiple devices to communicate and function together.
Don’t feel you need to outfit your entire home at once. Pick a simple project; installing some smart plugs, a doorbell camera, or a smart bulb in one room. Build from there. BC Hydro’s experts suggest a phased approach to help spread out costs and flatten the learning curve.
Every time you add a piece of smart home technology to your home, make sure it works with your chosen smart home hub. Most smart devices are labeled with something like, “Works with Alexa/Google”. Shepherd’s Hardware can help you find compatible products for a smooth setup.
Most smart home technology devices are designed for easy DIY installation. More complex setups—thermostats and smart light switches, for example—require you to turn off power before installing. You may be more comfortable consulting an electrician for these kinds of jobs, and Shepherd’s Hardware can point you in the right direction.
In closing, here are some final tips on how to keep your system protected from potential risks:
With the right approach, turning your home into a smart home is easier than you think. Soon, you’ll be enjoying the benefits of automation—coming home to a perfectly lit and warmed space without lifting a finger!
Still unsure of where to start? Shepherd’s Hardware is here to help.
Visit us in-store or online to explore our selection of beginner-friendly smart home devices, and let our experts guide you in creating a home that works smarter, not harder.
With today’s smart home devices, you can turn any home into a highly-functional space that anticipates your needs. Shepherd’s Hardware is here to help you make it happen.
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