Smart Home System Installation Process
SO HOW DOES A SMART HOME ACTUALLY WORK?
A smart home is an advanced network of interconnected smart devices, all capable of being managed remotely. From home automation to smart lighting and intelligent smart home security, the possibilities are infinite with smart home solutions. At its core, a smart home requires specialised technology and hardware that allows the homeowner to control multiple appliances and access data from a stationary unit or a smartphone.
Creating a Smart Home Automation That Works for You
Smart Home Systems can also be integrated into smart homes allowing specific tasks to be performed simultaneously when certain conditions are met enabling homeowners to receive notifications, adjust temperatures and lighting as well as lock and unlock doors seamlessly.
A Smart Home System for Efficiency of Time and Energy
All these features make smart homes significantly more efficient than conventional homes by the integration of smart home products such as heating, lighting and security systems to make your property more secure.
They can also help enhance your home using lighting, smart thermostats and multi-room audio to create a comfortable atmosphere, save money on your bills by controlling your heating and cooling with a smart thermostat, or by making sure all the lights are off before you leave home.
In the Beginning
To get started with a smart home, the first step is to install a hub that acts as the ‘brain’ of the system. This will provide a connection to your existing Wi-Fi network and allow you to control all other components from one place. Once this is installed, you can begin adding compatible devices such as a smart thermostat, door locks, cameras and lights. These devices will then be connected to the hub and configured so that they can communicate with each other.
Finally, you’ll need to install a mobile app or home automation controller which will enable you to manage all the connected devices from one place. This is usually the last step in the setup process and allows you to control, monitor and automate your home from anywhere.
Once your smart home is set up, you can start experiencing the convenience of modern living with the ability to manage multiple devices at once. Whether you’re away on holiday or just busy with other things around the house, a smart home can make life easier.
HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT HAVING A SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM INSTALLED?
The beginning of any smart home journey should start with a consultation with a CEDIA certified smart home designer or installer. An initial consultation will explore what you want to achieve, your home’s scale and layout and how your family uses your home.
Agreeing your Smart Home Installation Functions
These initial consultations will determine which smart technology systems and functions will benefit you most and provide the best value for your investment. Initial consultations will be followed up with detailed proposals and prices alongside a demonstration of the systems.
Professional Installation
Once a system is agreed upon, the installer will produce a detailed plan showing exactly what the finished system will do. You’ll also be able to see all the equipment that’s needed and whether any other trades need to be consulted.
When to Carry out the Work
Most smart home systems need to be installed during major refurbishments, interior design changes or as part of a new build home. This is because of the future-proof wiring infrastructure that is the foundation of a smart home. Whilst systems can be installed wirelessly, it limits quality and reliability. Wireless installation should only be considered as a complementary technology for internet use and controller apps.
Installing the Wiring
A star wiring system will most likely be used. This involves running a mixture of data, AV and control cables from a central location in the house. It will ultimately house all of the audiovisual and smart home control equipment in a dedicated equipment rack.
Integrating Smart Home Installations
Some systems, like gate or door entry, will typically be supplied and installed by the smart home installer. However other systems must be verified and wired into the smart system. Third-party systems, such as electric gates, must be able to function independently and their operation must be signed off by a professional installer as complete before it’s integrated into your smart home.
When a house approaches the time when switches and sockets are installed, your installer should have engineers onsite to fit sockets and central panels and to test and verify all of the cablings. During this time your installer should be building, wiring and testing the central equipment racks so a fully operational system can be demonstrated before installation.
When your house is nearly complete, the smart home hardware should be installed and the equipment rack will be delivered and installed.
Upon completion full technical instructions and guidance will be provided in writing and verbally and the free service period of typically 6-12 months will begin.
Choosing a Home Automation Installer
When selecting an installer for your smart home technology system, the CEDIA certification is a good indication that they are well acquainted with the industry’s best practices and can provide you with the highest levels of service. CEDIA members will also offer guarantees on their workmanship and be able to clearly explain the scope of work and costs. Check online reviews and testimonials to get an idea of how well the company works and how satisfied its customers are.
Getting Smart Home Installations Right
It is important that you feel comfortable with the smart home installer you choose to work with as it’s a big investment for your home and lifestyle. They should be able to explain every aspect of the project in easily understandable terms, pay attention to all your requests and be willing to answer any queries you have. It is also essential that they offer long-term aftercare and technical support throughout the life of the system.
Smart Home System
You should be sure to ask smart home installers about their experience with projects similar to yours, both in terms of size and budget. They should also be able to demonstrate how they’ve integrated different systems while still keeping the user experience as simple and intuitive as possible. Finally, they should be able to provide customer references and evidence of real-life projects that showcase their work.
Overall, for every smart home automation installation, you should expect experienced professional installers to play a fundamental role in ensuring your system is, meeting your needs, is installed correctly and running smoothly.
Experts in Smart Home Installation
If you are interested in a Smart Home Automation installer who creates minimal disruption to your life, Finite Solutions have years of experience in high-end smart home installation, installing cinema rooms, security systems and energy management systems.
Our professionals provide a tailored solution to meet your specific requirements and budget, because every client and every smart home project is unique. With our experience and expertise, you can trust that your system will be installed correctly and user-friendly design will make it easy for you to live with the new technology. Get in touch today for advice on how we can help create a truly connected home.
