Home automation is still such a new thing that there really aren’t standards – either from the companies that produce the devices, or the consumers that purchase the devices. There are all kinds of experts out there, and blogs – including me and this blog – that will tell you the rules for home automation. While most of what you’ll read is really helpful (not to be bias, but my stuff included), there really aren’t black and white instructions for using home automation at this time. Sure, there are best practices, but there aren’t any steadfast rules. Here are a few things that I have seen presented as home automation rules that I think you should break.
Don’t DIY
This is my least favorite rule. There is no reason that you can’t DIY the installation, monitoring, and upkeep of your home automation system. Is it easy? Not as easy as professional services, but it does get easier the more you do it. If you are willing to spend the time and energy to DIY your home automation, you are likely to save some money, and you are sure to get exactly what you want. If you are worried about monitoring – such as for security cameras – you can always sign up for those services without using the company for your installation and set-up.
Use ONLY the Big Name Brands
The great thing about home automation technology being so new is that there is a market for new brands. Those small brands are the ones that, in a few years, will be bought out by the bigger brands. The small brands can be more concentrated on developing technology and systems, and while they might sometimes be priced a little higher, it’s usually worth it. Of course, you need to do your own research and make sure the product is good and will work with the other products you are using.
Don’t Mix and Match Brands
This is the best thing about home automation right now. While it can sometimes be frustrating that there isn’t yet an all-encompassing package for all your home automation needs, it also means that you can mix and match. Companies have to make their products open to work with other brands, since that is what is happening on the market right now. Sure, you can load up on your favorite brand for what they offer, but if you want to branch out, you can and you should.
Don’t Buy New-to-Market Products
This one is tricky. While it might be true that you shouldn’t make big purchases of new-to-market products – like the first year a new car model is out – I just don’t think that it translates to home automation technology. Unlike the car market, you may not have any other options except for the brand new products – it might be the only one of the its kind! Being one of the first to use a product means that you are part of the beta group that might need to upgrade later, but it also means you can provide feedback that helps shape the future of the product.
What home automation rules do you break?
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