Smart gadgets for your home are becoming more and more commonplace. But homeowners don’t have to be tech gurus to make smart updates to their homes, especially those who are reaching retirement age.
The”aging in place” movement emphasizes how smart home improvements can help the baby boomer generation save money, time, and energy though simple smart home improvements.
See how your life can be made easier, safer and greener with these handy smart home gadgets!
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee devices work by monitoring outdoor, indoor and body temperatures through sensors placed throughout the home.
These sensors help regulate room temperatures based on occupancy by detecting temperature changes caused by people entering or exiting a space.
Through this technology, the Ecobee smart thermostat saves consumers an average of 23 percent on energy bills annually, according to the company’s website.
Like many modern thermostats, Ecobee can be set to kick on when residents are expected to be home and off when they are away.
Unlike traditional devices however, temperature readings and activity reports can be accessed remotely through Ecobee’s smartphone app.
Homeowners can also control temperature settings from the app as well as receive energy conservation reports and system alerts at no additional cost.
Most Ecobee systems are compatible with smart hubs like Amazon Alexa, Echo and Samsung SmartThings and can be installed without the help of an electrician.
Ecobee home systems start at $169.
For more product information and pricing, visit the Ecobee smart thermostat website here.
Roomba and Braava Cleaning Systems by iRobot
iRobot is making the “self-cleaning home” dream a reality with their Roomba automatic vacuums.
Each system features the iRobot patented three-stage cleaning technology, which “loosens, lifts and suctions dirt” from all floor types and can run for 60 to 120 minutes, depending on the model.
All Roomba vacuums are wifi compatible, with the exception of the base model, Roomba 614. Wifi connection allows users to schedule cleaning times, pause cleaning and keep the device up to date with the latest operating system.
These hands-free cleaners use sensors to make 60 decisions per second to detect dirt, cleaning paths and obstacles to avoid while operating. Such obstacles include furniture, toys, and corners of the room.
The Roomba’s companion, iRobot’s “Braava,” combines the basic components of the vacuum with Swifter-like elements to provide homeowners with an automatic broom and mop system.
Braava offers two devices, the jet and 300 series, which can perform wet mopping, damp or dry sweeping and can clean spaces 200 square feet to 1000 square feet in size.
A complete list of models and performance capabilities can be found at irobot.com.
Lutron Automatic Lights
Lutron products are all about conserving energy and saving money. Simply installing one of the company’s motion activated lighting controls can help homeowners cut annual energy costs by 20 to 60 percent.
Lutron’s Maestro occupancy/vacancy sensors detect motion through temperature changes and ultrasonic sound waves upon one’s entering or exiting a room.
As changes and motion are detected, wall or ceiling sensors will trigger the light.
Spaces to consider installing motion sensors include closets, bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchens, where lights are frequently lit while not in use.
Maestro sensors can typically be installed without the help of a professional and can be found online or at most major hardware stores starting at $20.
Discover how Lutron can make a difference in your home by visiting their products page here.