29 Feb 2016
Common Misconceptions about Home Automation
The world is rapidly becoming automated- everything it seems, can be solved with technology. Technology has made our lives simpler, faster and more efficient. The simple fact of the matter is we cannot do without it. But has it made our world safer? CCTV cameras have made it easier to control crime; automated correction facilities have made it harder for criminals to escape. With use of the media, attention can be brought to criminals on the loose much faster. These are of course general advantages. Now, the advantages to home-owners are plenty: you don’t have to remember to switch the lights, the fan, the TV off before leaving home as your house will do it for you. No need to bother with keys if you have facial recognition software, or a passcode for entry. These advantages are generally known to the public; unfortunately, so are some of the following misconceptions.
- It’s not useful:
This cannot be true. Home automation exists to make life easier for you. Smart homes are designed keeping utility and functionality in mind. Room temperature, light switches, even doors can be controlled from your phone or remotely. Just think about it: people said smart clothing wouldn’t be useful, yet Fitbits are more popular than ever. - It’s too expensive:
Smart homes were something of a legend a decade ago; impressive homes that only the rich could afford. This is proving false today as more and more smart cities and homes are being built. Accessibility and awareness of technology and internet have made sure that it is no longer a privilege of the wealthy. Options for home automation are numerous: you don’t have to start off with a smart home but you can make your way there. - It’s more of a luxury than a practical necessity:
This myth may have its roots in the aforementioned misconception. Since home automation was assumed to be very expensive, it was also assumed that it was just ‘for show’ rather than for practical purpose. But that’s not true either. Home automation saves time and energy and makes way for a more efficient lifestyle. For example, you may be in a rush to leave one day and forget to turn off the heating and the lights. If your house is automated, you can do so from your car while stuck at a red light, or adjust your settings so that they turn off whenever you leave the house. This saves you money and the world energy. Due to the scarcity of fossil fuels, we must take care to conserve what we have left. - The technology may be outdated soon:
The wonderful thing about technology is that it can update itself. Just like Android and iOS software can be upgraded so too can the software that runs a smart home. It is inconceivable to think that the technology that runs your home can become obsolete. Additionally, if you wait for a technology that won’t be replaced by something new in a year’s time, you’ll likely be waiting forever. - It’s too difficult to use:
The same thought went through the heads of those who purchased a smartphone for the first time no doubt. But honestly speaking, it just takes some getting used to. Whether you use your smartphone to control your home or whether you have remotes or prefer an artificial intelligence, you will still have to learn how to use them. This hassle is not without its rewards as home automation can, and will, make your life easier.