Smart Home Technology Trends
Smart devices can be a convenient way to keep life at home under control. So which devices are worth investing in?
The facts about smart home devices
Voice-activated smart speakers are typically used to control other smart household technology, answer questions and play music.
Smart security products like video doorbells, smart surveillance cameras, and smart locks and alarms can protect your home from intruders, your packages from porch pirates, and even prevent you from getting locked out of the house.
Today’s smart devices can now be monitored and managed entirely online via mobile apps. This makes it easy to control all smart-equipped features like lights, security, thermostat, appliances and more, from within your home and while you’re away.
From integrated smoke detectors to refrigerators, smart home devices can be configured, controlled and operated via app and/or smart speaker.
Aside from being used to ask questions, play music or control other household devices, smart speakers can be used to streamline personal organization: update personal calendars, check the weather, get traffic updates, set timers hands-free, etc.
Speakers are a great tool to have in a smart home because they may act as a hub to connect and manage life at home on all fronts, from making voice-activated purchases to controlling household devices like lighting, temperature and more.
These smart functions are not only more convenient, but can potentially lower energy costs and maximize home security. Additionally, this allows flexibility for new devices and appliances to be added down the line.
Water damage is the primary claim scenario that you can help prevent with connected home technology. Point/leak sensors detect and monitor moisture or humidity where it doesn’t belong. Easy-to-install flow monitors attach to your main plumbing line or water meter and monitor water usage for your entire home. All-in-one devices measure flow, pressure and temperature, and can both notify you and stop a leak automatically. You can install some yourself. Others require a plumber to install.
And some insurers partner with manufacturers to offer savings when you buy one of these smart devices or systems.
But what about when you aren’t using your voice-activated gadgets? These devices have shown vulnerability to voice command attacks via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Many consumers remain skeptical of smart home speakers and home security cameras, and their manufacturers, due to a rise in reported stalkers, hackers and hijackers digitally entering homes through these devices.
The good news? Most of these basic-level security breaches can be prevented with strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication.
Widespread adoption of Energy Star-certified smart thermostats could offset billions of pounds of annual greenhouse gas. When programmed correctly and properly managed on extended leaves, a smart thermostat can help make the most of your climate control system, saving you energy (and ultimately money) over time.
It’s not only convenient to control devices in your home with the touch of a button — they may even help you save on your insurance premiums.
Smart home technologies are impacting the way insurance companies approach homeowners policies, as some devices may help prevent the need for a claim. Offering customers discounts helps incentivize them to install these devices.*
With increased health risks and rise in time spent in the home, homeowners are now investing in smart appliances that keep their home as clean and sanitary as possible. Products like touchless appliances, self-cleaning toilets and robotic vacuums have upgraded the quality of living to help keep on top of messes at home.
Many smart speaker owners use their smart speakers to conveniently make voice-activated purchases on demand.
There are plenty of home security systems to choose from, but smart devices add a few extra layers of protection and convenience. This allows you to stay on alert with automatic motion-detecting notifications, keep an eye on your children and pets, remotely manage your locks, and answer the door from wherever you are, right from your phone.
Smart technology is here to stay, and it could benefit your wallet.
With more and more connected “Internet of Things” devices worldwide, smart home technology continues to gain popularity, and it might add value to your home if you choose to purchase and install a few devices of your own. What's more, these devices could help you save on your insurance premiums.
Amica currently offers discounts when you install a temperature-monitoring, water- or gas-leak detection system.* For more information on how you can leverage smart tech for your home insurance premiums, call an Amica specialist today at 800-242-6422.
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* Discounts may vary and may not be available in all states.
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