Turning an older house into a modern “smart home” doesn’t have to be daunting or difficult. Below are some affordable, easy-to-install smart home upgrades that can make your older home more efficient.

1. Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is a common way to upgrade an older home (and save money on your electricity bill). These devices allow you to control the temperature in your home through Wi-Fi from anywhere using a smartphone or tablet, and it can even learn your preferences and adjust itself accordingly. Smart thermostats often require certain wiring, so be sure to check with an HVAC professional or electrician before attempting to install anything yourself.

2. Smart Lighting

Smart lighting allows you to easily control lights remotely from your phone or tablet, as well as set schedules for when they automatically turn on or off. Smart bulbs make it easy to control the brightness, color, and warmth of the light in the rooms throughout your house.

3. Smart Security System

A smart security system gives you 24/7 monitoring of your home, allowing you to check in on what’s happening at all times. You can even receive text or email alerts when motion is detected and view live video feeds from inside or outside your home. Smart security systems also have advanced features such as facial recognition and access control for a higher level of protection. Some smart security systems, such as doorbell cameras, are becoming increasingly popular.

4. Smart Appliances

Smart appliances are becoming increasingly popular in homes today. From refrigerators that tell you when food has gone bad to washers and dryers that automatically adjust settings based on the load being washed, these devices can save time, energy, and money in the long run.

5. Smart Home Hub

A smart home hub is the central piece of many smart homes, as it connects all your devices and allows them to communicate. This often allows you to set up automation and control your smart home through voice commands or an app.

Taking advantage of some of these smart upgrades allows you to easily bring your older home into the future without breaking the bank. Not only will you enjoy more convenience and comfort, but also reap significant savings in energy costs over time. Which upgrade will you make first?

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