Not too long ago, I wrote a blog to explain the basics of the Internet of Things (IoT). Now I’m back to write about a particularly fascinating subject: IoT and how it is transforming our homes, right in front of us!
When I began to explore the areas where IoT can create a “smart home,” I found that the possibilities are pretty much endless, so keep in mind that my list of 5 Must-Haves in Smart Home Devices is by no means all-inclusive!
Also note that smart technology is in various stages of development. Some systems are up and running well, while others are just in the conceptual phase. But either way, our homes have big changes down the pike!
Here are the first 3 of 5 Must-Haves in Smart Home Devices of the Future:
1. Thermostat
If you’ve heard anything about smart homes, chances are, you’ve heard of the Nest® Thermostat. This innovative thermostat is programmable and can be remotely managed using your smartphone, but it gets much, much cooler (or warmer) than that – yes, pun intended. The thermostat learns from you by tracking and collecting data about your heating and cooling habits. For instance, do you usually get home from work during the week at 5:30 and turn your heat up to 68° between the months of October and April? Nest will remember that and do it automatically. Is the humidity too high? Nest will take care of that. Nest even uses the weather information from your neighborhood to adjust the temperature settings.
- The perks?
Nest saves energy over time and users report that it’s easy to install. - The downfalls?
It’s a bit pricey for a thermostat, plus it may not work as well if your household doesn’t keep a predictable daily schedule.
2. Washer, Dryer, and/or Dishwasher
Each of these appliances allow you to start the cycle while you’re away from home. Broken appliance? The smart features can also figure out what exactly is malfunctioning, what part(s) might need replacing, and even order new parts if needed.
- The perks?
If remote diagnosis does its job correctly, it might prevent the hassle and cost of calling a repair person to the house. - The downfalls?
High cost for an appliance that doesn’t do much on its own. If they develop a washer that can load or unload itself? Or put the soap in when you forget? Now that would be cool!
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Refrigerator and/or Garbage Can
Yes, this is a weird combination, I know…but smart technology in both of these appliances works to keep track of grocery inventory and add items to your shopping list as needed, by using barcodes, voice recognition, and other technology. I can’t even begin to tell you how much this technology could help me. I forget items at the grocery store…All. The. Time.
- The perks?
Saves the time and hassle of sitting down to wrack your brain and remember which grocery items you need to add to your list. - The downfalls?
This technology still has quite a bit of development to be made to be completely useful and reliable. And again, cost is high.
As you have read, from kitchen appliances to energy-saving solutions, the Internet of Things is blossoming all around us. Check back soon to read the final two items on my list of 5 Must-Haves in Smart Home Devices of the Future!
About the Author:
Carmella Giancursio is L-Tron’s Public Relations Specialist & Content Editor. When she’s not working, spending time with her husband, or taking care of her 3 young kids, she can be found in the kitchen, channeling her Italian heritage! Email info@L-Tron.com with questions, or call us at (800) 830-9523