Home Automation Making Home Technology Better
One of the most widespread complaints about home alarm systems five to ten years ago were that there was no cool home technology involved. In short, they were boring. Alarm companies did not take these complaints lightly and searched for new ways to improve home technology for alarm systems.
The most improved aspect of home security systems has been the implementation of easy to install and easy to use home automation products. Alarm customers can take advantage of a new home technology called Z-Wave to automate their home simply, and most importantly at an affordable price. Alarm companies are utilizing Z-Wave products such as Light Switches/Modules, Thermostats, Locks and Audio/Visual that all integrate and are controllable online.
Online/remote access to home alarm systems is another way home technology is being improved by alarm companies. You can use your iPhone, BlackBerry, Android or any internet enabled phone to access your alarm system and configure and monitor your home including your Z-Wave devices. You can set your devices on timers or have them react certain ways determined by the alarm system’s status or other settings.
Some of the alarm companies offering Z-Wave products are FrontPoint Security, Protect America and SafeMart. Many other alarm companies offer their own home technology options for home automation that integrate with their alarm systems and services. The great thing about Z-Wave is you technically don’t NEED a home alarm company to have Z-Wave home technology set up in your home. You can create your own Z-Wave “network”, however, it often comes at a higher cost than alarm companies provide it for and you pay a similar monthly fee for remote access service, which is the main feature of Z-Wave. You may as well get an alarm system and integrate all of your home technology together and pay one monthly fee.
Like we said, several years ago these home technology options were not possible. You couldn’t turn your lights off from across the country or have your iPod player turn on when you disarm your alarm system. At least you couldn’t do it without spending a ridiculous amount of money for home technology that had not yet been simplified. Complicated wiring and an intensive installation would often be required. That’s another great aspect of Z-Wave and newer home automation technology – it’s wireless!
Not all alarm companies are offering home automation as part of their packages but a number of the companies on Alarm System Report’s Best Alarm System list do offer these advanced home technology options including FrontPoint, ADT, Protect America and Vivint as well as many others. Visit our Best Alarm System Review pages for more information about home automation and advanced home technology.
