Technology moves fast these days, and the way your home is connected to the internet of things is no different. It seems like we went straight from the personal computer to robot vacuums!

With modern technology, you can automate or even eliminate simple household tasks. One example is indoor lighting. Many homeowners in Ontario turn indoor lights on around the same time each evening. You might be familiar with timers, which automatically turn on and off lights throughout the house at certain times. Timers are especially useful as a security measure when you’re away from home.

Technology takes this simple concept to a new level – allowing homeowners to turn on or off lights from anywhere in the world, right from their smartphone. If your handy timer has been serving you well, then you may not need the added functionality of smart lights. But there are some scenarios where a remote connection can be helpful. For example, in the case of a power outage or if you simply forget to set your timer. Smart homes increase convenience as well as your peace of mind.

Some connected home devices, like smart thermostats, take things even further. The Google Nest Learning Thermostat monitors usage over time. It can automatically adjust your temperature setpoint depending on how you’ve adjusted your thermostat previously, whether spaces are occupied, and the time of day. A smart thermostat can make your home a more comfortable place to be, while also reducing your energy consumption by using less power while you’re away. It’s a win-win.

The people best suited for a smart home are Toronto homeowners who:

• Have a smartphone and are comfortable using it
• Have Wi-Fi internet at their home
• Want to automate little tasks in life
• Seeking to reduce energy usage or make home improvements toward a greener home
• Desire greater control of their household devices
• Host guests often or operate a short-term rental property