Smart home pros and cons
You might have heard the term ‘smart home’ floating around the internet, but have you wondered what they actually are? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
What is a smart home?
Gaining popularity in recent years, a smart home refers to the practical home set-up where appliances and devices can be controlled using an internet or mobile connection. You’ll be able to manage your heating, lighting and security remotely – even when you’re not at home!
Although it may sound like something for the few, more and more of us are opting for an intelligent home. In fact, the number of UK households using these devices is expected to hit 25.4 million by 2026.
What are the advantages of a smart home?
- They’re convenient – Most smart homes can be controlled via an app. Whether you want to turn the heating on without leaving the comfort of your sofa or put on some music while cooking, smart homes make life simple.
- They can increase energy efficiency – With the energy price cap increasing, it’s never been more important to improve the efficiency of your home. As smart homes allow you to adjust temperatures and schedule when to heat your home, they’re much more energy-efficient.
- They’re good for elderly and disabled people – As smart homes can be operated remotely, they’re excellent for those who may have mobility issues.
- They’re secure – Smart homes can prove to be a deterrent for criminals, meaning your home security will be improved.
What are the disadvantages of smart homes?
Although they can be a great addition to your home, there are some things to bear in mind if you’re considering getting a smart home.
- They can be expensive to install – As smart homes don’t ordinarily work on your current systems, you may end up paying a premium for the convenience. Generally speaking, a smart device costs 2-10 times the equivalent of a standard alternative. If your credit score leaves something to be desired, it could be worth checking out alternatives to a bad credit loan.
- They rely on the internet – Although the fact that they rely on the internet means you can operate them remotely, you could be left feeling cold and miserable if the Wi-Fi goes down. However, some systems have an offline back-up, so you can keep toasty warm if you’re without a good connection.
- They can be prone to technical issues – Much like your work laptop, smart homes can also be prone to some technical difficulties.
- Hacking is a possibility – Although smart homes are normally secure, that doesn’t mean they are 100% safe. In fact, smart homes can get hacked if you’re not careful! Although the chances of you getting hacked are slim, they do exist. However, the good news is that the government has now cracked down on smart home providers that aren’t following the necessary precautions.
Final thoughts
Smart homes are now part and parcel of daily life – but that doesn’t mean you need one. If you’re considering getting a smart home, make sure to thoroughly weigh up your options before going ahead.
