Written by Michelle Glassburn
Ever since the first time a question started with the word Alexa, we have been racing toward a more connected home. Many of us have heard of the “Internet of Things” without realizing that we are immersed in it, right in our homes. Technology can add convenience, time savings, energy efficiency, and cost savings at home. It can create spaces that are safer and more accessible.
Try this Alexa question: “Alexa, is your refrigerator running?”
The Choices Abound…
As you work with clients remodeling their homes, the time is right to ask how technology could be integrated into their plans. Many renovations offer open walls and a clean slate to really consider how to leverage the Internet of Things to improve the space. There is a very long list of innovative products that clients might consider. They include:
- Climate Control including thermostats, fans, and more
- Appliances like washers/dryers, refrigerators, vacuums, etc.
- Lighting options both indoors and outdoors
- Entertainment including TVs, sound systems, etc.
- Window treatments
- Security systems with both locks and cameras connected
- Water sensing products to prevent floods and freezing
- Sprinkler systems
- Even your pet care and basic outlets can be part of your connected home!
Try this Alexa question: “Alexa, do you have any pets?”
Partners are Key…
Ensuring that your client’s smart home options are fully explored and planned requires the right partners. Electricians and integrators can work together as an effective team to design and install a system. An integrator will ensure that the systems your clients choose can effectively work together. Further, they can be incredibly helpful in working with a project’s architect or designer to ensure that the plans for a system are captured and communicated. And, they can be a knowledgeable resource to work with your client as they learn to use their new system.
An electrician can also be an important partner in the process. They can assess the increased electrical demand on a home and recommend the needed upgrades to adequately handle the load. They can evaluate the wiring in the home to be sure it works well and most importantly safely with the new demands. And lastly, with the clients’ new reliance on technology to control a home’s system, an electrician can install back up power and surge protection to keep the technology protected and operational.
One more Alexa command: “Alexa, make me a sandwich.”
And yes, while Alexa cannot yet craft your favorite PB&J, there are even devices now in a home’s Internet of Things that will make you a sandwich…
Michelle Glassburn is CEO at Lavallee Systems a residential mechanical company serving Eastern Massachusetts.