HomeSeer announced a couple new switches at CES 2018 with integrated RGB lights which can be used to indicated status for other elements in the control system. There is a $55 dimmer and a $50 toggle switch available, both support Z-Wave Plus, multi-tap, and S2 security. This isn’t a new concept in the home automation device market, but it is […]
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We looked at the Flo smart home water monitoring system as part of our CES 2018 coverage. It was a really innovative method using machine learning to keep tabs on your water usage, check for leaks, detect problems, and potentially turn off the water when something really bad happens. Now, it has Amazon Alexa support. So questions like “Alexa, ask […]
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If you’ve bought into NETGEAR’s Arlo camera system the $250 wire-free Arlo Security Light companion devices seem like a no-brainier. The kit comes with a few power options, including rechargeable batteries or via a solar panel. Post installation these IP65 “weather resistant” lights with customizable color, pattern, and beam width can tie into a wider Arlo ecosystem either as a […]
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Installing a Google Home Mini or Amazon Echo Dot is a popular way to add the home automation enabling functionality to your house in an unobtrusive way. As neat as that is, it isn’t quite as slick as incorporating the technology straight into a smoke detector. If you have powered detectors already installed, as most modern homes do, the First […]
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I wasn’t familiar with abode’s iota security system, home automation controller (HAC), and camera system before meeting them at CES. Overall the system looks quite approachable, and is obviously more intended for users who prioritize ease of installation and user experience (UX) over flexibility. I don’t mean that as a negative, per se. Just something that would need to be […]
Read moreSmart vent systems are a tricky thing to get right. Too little modulation and they aren’t terribly useful, too much and you risk breaking the HVAC. HiberSense connected climate control system claims to strike the right balance. Energy efficient comfort control that is also sensitive to the lifespan of your furnace and air conditioner. HiberSense works by replacing the vents […]
Read moreLike the Guardian by Elexa water shutoff controller, Flo can “intelligently” turn off the water. But, it also promises to be much more. Including detecting leaks, and even wastage – like a running toilet or leaky faucet. Unless you’re really handy, installing a Flo will require engaging a plumber as it sits in the main water line just past the […]
Read moreI love the concept behind MySmartBlinds { https://www.mysmartblinds.com/products/automation-kit} solar powered $99 2.5” automation retrofit kit. I would love to have automated blinds, but the cost of a complete replacement is prohibitive. Especially considering that the blinds we have are in great shape. If rollers are more your thing, a kit should be available in a few months for $149. […]
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Installation cost is one of the major barriers to home automation. In addition to the cost of your switches, bulbs, etc. you also need to purchase a home automation controller (HAC) in most cases. The other major issue is complexity, which is where the development budget of large companies like Amazon and Google help immensely. They have the $ to […]
Read moreNear the end of the last day of CES, we stumbled into the Guardian kiosk in the Z-Wave pavilion. Having seen quite a few leak detection/water control devices over the previous week I wasn’t holding out much hope. As it turns out, what they have to offer is a really neat approach to solving this problem. Unlike the other […]
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