In recent years, as more products and technologies become more easily accessible, homeowners across the world are upgrading their homes with smart technology and home automation.

Home automation puts control of basic home systems and appliances into the hands of the homeowner and provides access from a remote point – like a smartphone app, or at a centralized unit inside the home.

You might think of smart home automation as a nifty way to keep up with the latest technology, or an opportunity for homeowners to show off, but there are practical advantages to home automation. Here are some of them:

Energy Efficiency
You can increase your home’s energy efficiency by remotely powering off systems and appliances when they aren’t in use. Smart thermostats and smart lightbulbs save energy, and can cut utility costs over time. Some home automation technologies monitor water usage, too, helping to prevent large water bills. No more wasting money on lights left on when you aren’t home.

Control
Smart home devices are often chosen to better control functions within the home. With home automation technology, you can be aware what’s happening inside your home at any given time.

Safety
Many home automation technologies fall under the umbrella of home security. Consumers purchase these devices because they want to make their homes safer and more secure. For example, home automation systems can connect motion detectors, surveillance cameras, automated door locks, and other tangible security measures throughout your home so you can activate them from one mobile device before heading to bed.

Comfort
Most people already use smart technology to record shows or to play music throughout the home. But there’s so much more you can do to make your life easier and more comfortable. Connected devices can also help create a comfortable atmosphere—they provide intelligent and adaptive lighting, sound, and temperature, which can all help create an inviting environment.

Convenience
Because home automation technology performs rote tasks automatically, end users experience great convenience. Lots of smart gadgets are compatible with one another, and you can set different triggers between devices to automate regular home processes. For instance, you could set your smart locks to turn on your smart lighting when you unlock the front door.

Find more Home Automation resources on our Home Automation Hub.