Benefits of Having a Smart Home When Travelling
Whether you’re travelling abroad for work or heading on a family vacation, smart home security can keep your property as safe as possible until you return. With Control4 automation, for example, you can jet around the world for months at a time, while remaining in full control of how your home operates. Technology these days has many benefits, so here are five smart ways to protect your home whilst you’re away.
Set a Lighting Schedule
If your home looks dark and empty, it’s more of an attractive target for burglars. So, why not set a lighting schedule via your Control4 home automation system that mimics human activity? Smart switches and schedules can make it look like someone is at home even if they’re not, and as such can minimise the risk of a break-in. A good rule of thumb is that indoor lights should go on and off in different rooms throughout the day and night so that any kind of automation can’t be easily detected. You can also set an outside light to come on in the evening for extra protection.
Turn Your TV on in the Evening
Any kind of noise coming from your property will also help to keep burglars away. So think about some kind of automated TV or smart radio schedule, perhaps during the evenings when you’d usually be at home. This might seem a little off-the-wall, but tailoring your smart home system to maintain a routine is a great way to improve home security.
Set Your Window Shades
Automated window shades help to control the lighting in your home. They can also improve property security when you’re out of town. Consider keeping the shades down in rooms facing outwards towards a main street or road, so that people can’t look directly into your property. This is particularly important if you have valuable things on display that you don’t want anyone to see, such as a grand piano or expensive artwork. You could even set the blinds upstairs to go up and down according to your regular sleep pattern, again to fool would-be intruders.
Make the Most of Smart Sensors
A smart home security system often includes integrated motion sensors, cameras, locks and doorbells. Make sure these all have fresh, fully charged batteries and ensure all notifications are correctly enabled so that emergency measures can be implemented when necessary. If your smart system detects suspicious activity of any kind, it’ll alert you, allowing you to check the cameras installed on your property. Even without a notification, you can still take a peek at your property whenever you like to see if everything’s alright.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Smart thermostats are great because they learn your routine and heat your home accordingly. Of course, if you’re going on holiday, it’s important to adjust your thermostat so you don’t waste energy. Some thermostats have a holiday mode, while others can be scheduled to suit your preferred temperature. If it’s winter, it’s not wise to turn the heating off completely as your pipes might freeze and burst. Instead, keep the heating on at certain times of the day, but ensure it’s cooler than you’d usually have it.
Looking to improve the safety of your property the smart way? Then why not consider home automation installation services from New Wave AV? As a Control4 diamond dealer, we have the experience and expertise to enhance your living experience and ensure your property is fully protected.
