What Are Some Cutting Edge Home Automation Ideas in 2023?

Have you ever wished you could turn on your lights without getting up or start your coffee maker from bed? With home automation, you can.

Smart Homes and home automation systems are on the rise, and these systems are not just reserved for the tech-savvy people in this world. 

The first steps may seem daunting if you are considering using home automation or smart home devices. But home automation systems are much easier to install than you think. Join us as we explore some smart home automation ideas that you can easily integrate into your home and lifestyle.

Home automation technology can be adapted for security, convenience, comfort, and entertainment. Additionally, open-source software solutions like “Home Assistant” can be used to implement home automation solutions. REF HERE

Existing electronic devices and appliances can be automated using smart plugs paired with systems like Google Home and Amazon Echo. In addition, specific electronics and gadgets can be purchased and linked up with your smartphones to create a home automation system that includes a smart doorbell, a smart camera, and a smart lock. This is just one example of many approaches to integrating home automation ideas.

By automating these tasks, you can make your home and life more convenient. In addition, home automation technology can help to save time and improve your home’s energy efficiency. This is achieved by reducing the amount of power used for tasks like lighting and heating.

Identifying What You Want/Need From A Home Automation System

Most home automation systems have some form of functional utility that integrates with compatible smart devices. But, some exist for the sole purpose of your entertainment and enjoyment. Once you decide what you want from your home automation, you can choose the best systems to perform your desired functions.

Safety And Security Home Automation Ideas

One of the most common, necessary, and practical uses of home automation is to ensure the security of your home and loved ones. Many people view these systems as an investment. The list below presents several home automation ideas and solutions for safety and security purposes:

1. Indoor And Outdoor Real-Time Security Cameras

Cloud security cameras such as the Wyze Cam Pan allow you to live-stream footage on your phone and have two-way voice communication. Features include night vision 360° left and right panning, tilt, zoom, and voice control.

2. Video Doorbell

Video doorbell cameras will alert you to movement at your front door and stream live footage. In addition, you may interact with whoever is at your door from your phone, no matter where you are.

3. Smart Locks And Keypad Door Locks

Keypad door locks will only grant access when a passcode is entered or with your fingerprint. They can be unlocked remotely for guests and has a privacy mode for when you want zero disturbances. Stressing about whether or not you locked the door will be a thing of the past.

4. Smoke And C02 Detectors

Like any regular smoke detector, you will be alerted to the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide via your phone, no matter where you are. A highly rated product is the Google Nest Protect Smoke Alarm. Definitely a product that will give you peace of mind if you have loved ones or pets in the house while you are at work.

5. Smart Alarm Systems

Wireless alarm systems are the best way to ensure the overall safety of your home, family, and yourself. However, suppose you are looking for an effective, minimally evasive, and easy-to-install. In that case, you might consider a system such as the Simplisafe eight-piece wireless security system. Each security system will have its list of perks and features.

Home Automation Ideas For Convenience

A busy or fast-paced lifestyle will benefit from the home automation systems such as the ones listed below. They are there to create ease and add to the comfort aspect of your home while also taking the stress and anxiety out of specific tasks.

1. Smart Plugs For Existing Appliances

You can remotely control small appliances and outlets with smart plugs. Your morning coffee could be brewed and waiting by the time you wake up. You also won’t have to worry about forgetting to switch the electronics off. Convenient and energy efficient! Suppose you are curious about how a smart plug works. In that case, YouTuber SmartHomeReviewsEh has a great video explaining how a smart plug works.

2. Smart Bulbs

Automated lightbulbs and IoT lighting have been around in various forms for years and continue to be developed. Being able to control your lights remotely means that smart bulbs double as a convenience and security home automation. For example, instead of clapping to turn a light on, you could use a voice command or have it on a schedule. You can also select the kind and color of lighting you want for specific rooms or times of the day.

3. Robot Vacuums

You may not have considered these devices as home automation. Still, these vacuum robots can do so much when connected to your open-source systems like Alexa Or Google Assistant. The Verge published a list of the best robot vacuums of 2022, where anyone can find one that fits their lifestyle and budget.

4. Automated Blinds

Your existing blinds and curtains can be automated by either rigging up a system or pairing it with your home automation hub. You can also get preconfigured smart blinds already rigged and ready to go, such as the range of blinds and curtains from Somfy. 

Motorized curtains and blinds can also add a layer of security to your home. You can close them remotely to prevent lurkers from peering into your home.

5 . Smart Garage

A smart garage is part of a more extensive smart home system that uses sensors, internet-connected devices, and artificial intelligence to automate tasks and make your life easier.

For example, you can program your smart garage door to open automatically when your car pulls up to the house. You can also set the lights to turn on as you pull into the driveway, so you never have to fumble for your keys in the dark.

And if you forget to close the garage door before leaving for work, you can use your smartphone to close it from anywhere. With a smart garage, convenience is just a few taps away.

6. Smart Hub

The smart hub is the heart of the smart home. It’s a central location where all of the smart devices in the house connect and communicate with each other. The smart hub enables smart home technology to work together to make life more convenient, safe, and efficient.

It also allows homeowners to control their smart devices from a centralized location. There are many different types of smart hubs on the market, but they all serve the same primary purpose. When selecting a smart hub for your home, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your smart home.

This will help you choose a smart hub compatible with your devices and any future smart devices you may add to your home.

Home Automation Ideas To Make Your Home More Comfortable

Comfort is one of the key ingredients to making a home more “homely.” Without things that hold sentimental value, your home would just be a house. You may think that adding technology and gadgets to your home will detract from the organic homeliness that should exist. Still, the automation ideas below will add to it.

1. Smart Air Purifier

If you have pets and allergies, smart air purifiers will allow you to breathe easily. They monitor the air quality inside your home and adjust themselves to purify the air accordingly. Smart purifiers have the added advantage of neutralizing the smell of smoke and undesirable odors. 

2. Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats allow you to control your home temperature remotely so you can come home to a warm and cozy environment. These devices can analyze your preferences and determine your ideal settings. In addition, the ecobee smart thermostat has several added features that may allow you to streamline the home automation gadgets within your home.

3. Smart Lights

Unlike smart bulbs, smart self-adjusting lighting (smart lights) goes one step further. They can be programmed to adjust the brightness of your lighting according to the ambient light filtering into your home. Motion sensors trigger the self-adjusting lighting. They can switch themselves on and off upon entering and exiting any room.

Luxury And Entertainment Home Automation Ideas

Functional and fun! Entertainment is necessary, and what better way to take it up a notch than by implementing home automation and innovative technology? If adding features to your home that aren’t considered a “necessity,” then the ones in this list are for you.

1. Smart Speakers

Smart speakers are perhaps the easiest and most common way to automate your home. These nifty gadgets do much more than deliver quality sound from your television and music devices. You can stream your tunes from Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and others. The voice activation allows you to ask your automation hub about the time and weather. In addition,  these systems make it possible to make hands-free phone calls, schedule your calendar, and order online.

2. Pet Camera And Treat Dispenser

If you spend your days at the office while your fur babies are at home, devices like the Furbo Dog Camera will allow you to check in on your pet and dispense treats remotely. In addition, the two-way audio system will alert you to any barking and also allow you to remind your pet that they are a good boy or girl. 

3. Personal Robots

Smart robots roam around your home, interacting with everyone while capturing candid photos of precious moments in your home. Personal robots of all shapes and sizes fit your needs and budget. Many have facial recognition technology and the ability to interact verbally and follow certain voice commands. One such robot is Aido, with a plethora of features.

Open-Source Home Automation Systems As The Foundation Of A Smart Home

While many home automation systems are proprietary, meaning they can only be used with specific products from a particular manufacturer, open-source home automation systems are designed to be used with various devices.

This makes them more flexible and easier to customize. Additionally, because communities of enthusiasts develop open-source home automation systems, they tend to be more reliable and easier to use than proprietary systems. So, an open-source system may be the best option if you’re looking for a home automation system that offers both convenience and flexibility.

There are a few things to remember when choosing an open-source home automation system. First, you’ll need to ensure that the system is compatible with the devices you want to use. Additionally, you’ll need to choose a system that offers the features you’re looking for. Finally, you’ll need to ensure the system is easy to use and reliable.

There are a few different options if you’re interested in an open-source home automation system. All the home automation ideas mentioned above require Wifi and a smart home ecosystem to be in place from which it operates. The most popular choices for these are:

• Apple HomeKit
• Amazon Alexa
• Google Assistant
• IFTTT (If This Then That)
• Samsung SmartThings
• Control4
• Yonomi

It will be up to you to decide which of these systems will align with your wants and needs regarding home automation.

Conclusion

Modern-day technology may seem overwhelming, but its accessibility and affordability make it more commonplace in the average home. In addition, some home automation technologies can lower your home energy consumption while making life more convenient. 

Well-integrated permanent home automation features can add value to your property. And, Implementing these systems into your home will have you well on your way to turning your home into a smart home. So embrace the future and have fun with it!