Tech Integration

Integrating Technology into a Remodel

The integrated home. We all probably have a different view of what that looks like. For us older folks, we probably have some vision of the cartoon Jetsons or a darker image of 2001: A Space Odyssey.

To a certain degree, we have already reached a point where we have automation available for almost every system within our homes. There are multiple options for most of the systems that we use every day, but here are a few examples of the options that I have used in home renovation projects or that are most commonly available for retail users.

This is just a very broad overview of the basics of automation. This sector is one that is limited only by your vision and your wallet. 

Audio: If you are doing a whole house or extensive removal of drywall, I usually recommend speakers mounted in the ceiling. If you’re doing a smaller project in a limited area or you just want to add some audio in a couple areas of your home, I recommend a free-standing system (Sonos is the originator of this technology but there are several variations available from a variety of manufacturers).

Both options allow all rooms to share the same source or play individual options in different zones. The ability to have different audio in separate rooms with an in-ceiling option requires specific equipment that allows for different zones and typically includes some sort of keypad in each zone to control the source, volume and playback options (pause, skip, replay).

There are limitless options as to what you can do with audio playback. For sure a whole blog could be dedicated to this and, although I haven’t researched it, I am sure that there are entire blog pages that exclusively deal with home audio integration.

Security: Years ago, all home security systems were wired from entry points back to a centralized location where a security panel and back-up battery were located. New systems are all wireless and the control panel and back-up battery are contained in a single package that only requires an outlet to power it. Sensors for entry points, glass breakage, water leaks, motion and more all communicate wirelessly. Home security systems include an App to control and monitor activity or remotely activate or deactivate your system. Camera activity can be viewed in real time or reviewed if an event occurs.

Exterior door locks can also be controlled and monitored remotely. Users can be given individual access codes programmed for limited access on a specific day or time.

Garage door openers now have an App and can be controlled remotely or checked to verify the status of the door (no more going back after 6 blocks to ensure that you closed it!) and can even be linked to your Amazon account to allow for deliveries inside your garage (tested and very handy).

Lighting: Hate coming home to a dark house or setting up timers that need to be fixed anytime there is a power outage. Having lighting control used to be an expensive and disruptive endeavor. Technology has simplified that considerably and made it more reasonably priced for the average consumer.

The most basic control is to utilize individual light bulbs that are Bluetooth or WiFi capable. It still has limited capabilities but provides some flexibility and remote access. A more robust system is to utilize smart switches that communicate with a control module that is WiFi enabled. There are outlets and a variety of switch styles available: on/off, dimmer, 3-way, shade controllers and fan switches. Once the switches and control module are in place you can set up events and scenes. Outdoor lighting can switch on and off at specific times or be scheduled for sundown to sunrise. There are a variety of manufacturers, and all include some sort of App to control the lighting manually or set up events.

Miscellaneous: Many items exist that can assist with automating your home. Appliances are or are capable of being WiFi enabled. Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home and others provide voice control of the systems in your home. The caveat is that not every system works well with others. Research must be done to ensure that the lock and security system you purchase works with your Alexa.

Home Automation has come a long way in the last 20 years both in terms of cost and ability. With wireless technology and the ubiquitousness of WiFi in every electronic device, it has become much more affordable to create some sort of automation in the average home. While some of this makes sense to plan for and implement during a remodel or new home build, a variety of devices can be added with little or no renovation to your home.