A stroll through the aisles of any major home improvement store will yield a wide range of ‘Smart’ devices for securing and managing a home. A suite of devices, connected through a smart hub, support safe aging in place for elders as well as remote home monitoring for go-go retirees and snowbirds. Some examples of smart technology for the vulnerabilities of a home follow.
Who’s at the Front Door
See who is at the front door and what they are doing with a doorbell video system such as the popular Ring Video Doorbell. Doorbell apps can provide a notification to a smart phone whenever a visitor rings the doorbell or triggers a motion sensor. An app with audio capabilities provides the ability to talk with whoever is at the door. Neighborhood alerts provide up-to-date information from public safety agencies about events in the area.
Door Locks & Keyless Entry
In addition to seeing who is at the front door, smart locks can enable keyless entry with a 9-digit keypad or smart phone app. The app can provide a virtual key to visitors such as repair or delivery service people. Smart lock apps, such as Google Nest x Yale Lock with Nest Connect (available on Amazon), are usually compatible with iOS and Android.
Smart Lights
Smart lights, such as Philips® Hue or Sylvania Smart Plus LED offer the security of programming lights to turn on or off at specified times. Some systems learn daily activity patterns and can operate automatically when the homeowners are away.
Smoke & CO Detectors
The new generation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can send an alarm and notification to a smartphone, distinguish between smoke and CO, and identify the source. Examples include Nest Protect and hardwired OneLink Safe & Sound. The Roost Battery with built-in Wi-Fi makes a conventional smoke detector smarter.
Leak Detection
Leak detectors can limit costly water damage in the laundry room, water heater closet, bathroom, under sinks and any place where water leaks could happen. A combination of sensors and an app sends an alert to a smartphone and, with some detectors, shuts off the main water valve. Examples include Flo by Moen® Smart Water Detector and FlumeTM 2 Smart Home Water Monitor.
Video Surveillance
Video surveillance has been around for years, but the current generation of smart surveillance provides high-definition, live remote viewing and two-way audio and avoids costly hardwired installations and security services. For example, the Blink Mini Wi-Fi enabled plug-in camera provides live views as well as two-way audio features. The Lorex® System can send alerts whenever motion is detected in customized zones and provides pan, tilt, and zoom views.
