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May 3, 2019The smart home of the future that you grew up watching on Saturday morning cartoons is now becoming a reality. Although we’re still waiting for robot maids and flying cars, the following four futuristic technologies can make your home smarter today.
A Smarter Thermostat
How many times have you arrived at work and realized that you forgot to turn the thermostat down before you left home? A smart thermostat eliminates this problem by allowing you to adjust temperature settings anywhere from an app on your phone. These high-tech thermostats can also be programmed to adjust the temperature automatically, and some even learn your preferences. A smart thermostat quickly pays for itself by reducing energy usage.
A Smarter Vacuum Cleaner
Nobody loves to vacuum floors. Thanks to the robotic vacuum cleaner, you no longer have to. The newest robot vacuums utilize a Wi-Fi connection and smart apps to employ a ton of useful new features. These machines can detect dirty areas, easily maneuver around furniture, and automatically return to a charging station when not in use. Use your phone to control your robot vacuum from the couch or set it up so it automatically does its thing while you’re out of the house.
A Smarter Lightbulb
The humble lightbulb has come a long way since the days of Thomas Edison. Long-lasting, energy-sipping LED bulbs are quickly gaining popularity, and smart lightbulbs are the most advanced type on the market. Smart bulbs are available with a variety of styles and features. The most basic types allow for simple adjustments of brightness and color. More advanced bulbs can be synced to your television for perfect entertainment lighting or use GPS to turn the lights on when you arrive home.
A Smarter Fridge
Smart refrigerators take the kitchen dry-erase board to a new level. A smart fridge’s touch screen combines grocery lists, messaging, and internet browsing, but there is more to this technology than just a screen. A smart fridge can show you what’s inside without opening the door and give you a remote view via your phone when you’re at the grocery store. All this is made possible by printed circuit board technologies like multilayer and rigid flex circuit boards.
Whether you go big or small, adding smart technologies can save both time and money. Check with your utility company to see if they offer rebates for energy-saving improvements like smart thermostats and lightbulbs. Your smart upgrade may cost little or nothing.