See Also: 5 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME SMARTER IN 2018

MOTORIZED SHADES REGULATE TEMPERATURE

Smart TVs are fun to have in your home and integrated security helps keep you and your family safe but the most versatile technology in your home may be motorized shades.

Not only do they look great, but they can help enhance your privacy, protect your furnishings from harmful UV rays, and help regulate the temperature in your rooms.

Because most heat escapes from your windows, covering them just makes sense. When you do it with automated shading solutions, you can combine the controls with your smart thermostat’s built-in temperature sensor. That way, when the room gets too cool, your system can start warming it efficiently as the thermostat kicks in and the shades automatically lower.

AV GETS YOU READY FOR GAMEDAY

During the cooler months, you’re more likely to spend time inside. That means putting your home AV system to good use! And with the Super Bowl quickly approaching, you’re going to want a simple system that works every time you use it.

When you build a smart AV system, you can turn on all necessary devices, pull up your favorite programs, adjust the volume, and more with the touch of a button. Simplify your free time with preprogrammed scenes. One touch will lower the lights, raise the volume of your stereo, turn on your video display, and get you ready for gameday.

OUTDOOR LIGHTS FOR EARLY NIGHTS

It’s no secret that during the winter the days are short and the sky gets dark pretty early. One minute you’re enjoying the bright rays of the sun, the next you’re seeing the moon and stars.

Automated outdoor lighting takes the guesswork out of when the sun will set. Set timers to turn on your outdoor lighting system as soon as it starts to get dark, so you can avoid tripping on your way to the front door when you get home from work.

STAY RUNNING WITH BACKUP POWER

Of course, all of this technology requires an energy source. And while an expertly designed smart home can run efficiently, you’ll still need a way to power it -- even when the grid goes down.

The winter can bring along a number of nasty weather events, so be prepared with an integrated backup power system. By storing energy during your day to day activities, you can ensure you’ll stay running even when the neighborhood goes dark.

Want some more smart tips on surviving the winter with smart home automation? Click here, or tap the chat box at the bottom of your screen to contact an expert member of our staff right now!