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I really love my smart home set up. I can’t imagine having to walk over to an outlet just to dim the lights. I live in a rental so I don’t have the luxury of rewiring switches and swapping outlets. There are so many ways to configure a smart home. This is what I did.
Nest camera
The first smart tech I bought was a Nest camera. I wanted to know what my dogs were doing when I wasn’t home. Turns out they are really great for security too. I get alerts when there are noises (you can set the camera to ignore dog barking) or if there is movement. There’s a microphone on the camera so I can talk to my dogs if they are misbehaving too but I suspect the microphone is there to scare off burglars.
Smart bulbs
I use Philips smart bulbs. You can get them in a package with a hub which is needed to set up automations. Using HomeKit I set up my lights to turn on when I approach my apartment. I also have them set to dim at 11:00pm to get me in a sleepy state so I don’t stay up too late. They are programmed to turn on at 6:00am so I wake up using my natural circadian rhythm instead of a screaming alarm clock. The best part is I can turn on my lights just by summoning Siri.
Smart plugs
These smart plugs are great for electrical components that aren’t smart. I use mine for Christmas lights and an oscilating fan.
Motion detectors
I have a motion detector in my kitchen so my light turns on when I walk in. I have an automation set in the HomeKit app to turn off the light after 10 minutes of no movement. I can’t remember the last time I’ve had to turn on the kitchen light manually.
Tap Switches
In the off chance that Siri can’t get it together, I have backup tap switches set up in the living room and bedroom. They don’t require batteries. Clicking them creates enough friction to power them. What a time to be alive!
Smart lock
I don’t have this yet, but I’m working up to it! This deadbolt smart lock fits over most deadbolts. You can unlock your door with your phone, give people access to unlock the door and set an automation to unlock the door when you approach. This is definitely next on my list.
Now go update your space!
