9 Smart Devices to Improve Your Home Life
By Pro.com
Although The Jetsons didn’t claim to be set in one particular year, the age of those same robots and whimsical inventions is now upon us. From smartphones to smart watches, to a socially networked kitchen, all kinds of gadgets and appliances that do our work for us can either be purchased now or very soon.
No longer a futuristic dream, these devices can actually help you out. They provide information that helps you save money on utility bills, alert you to problems you might not know about and let you take control of your home even when you’re away. Let’s take a look at some of these appliances and gadgets available today.
1. Nest Learning Thermostat
When the Nest Learning Thermostat discerns your family’s preferences and schedule, it changes the temperature when nobody is at home. This can lower your heating and cooling costs by as much as 20%. You can also control the device from your phone.
2. Aros Smart Air Conditioner
Similar to the Nest Thermostat, the Aros Smart Air Conditioner figures out your ideal temperature and lets you customize the device according to your budget and location.
3. Whirlpool Smart Front-Loading Washer and Dryer
Working in concert with the Nest Learning Thermostat, you can manage your laundry while you’re out with the Whirlpool Smart Front-Loading Washer and Dryer. When the wash cycle ends, FanFresh takes over and tumbles the clothes in fresh air or evenly dries smaller loads. Likewise, wrinkles don’t become permanently set into your clothes when the dryer completes a cycle because it activates Wrinkle Shield which periodically tumbles your clothes.
4. Petcube Camera
If spending time away from your pets is agonizing, the Petcube Camera is equivalent to a baby monitor. You have the ability to live stream the room the camera is in, activate a laser from your smart phone for your dog or cat to chase, and talk to your pet in either a fun-loving voice or that disciplinarian tone if he’s getting into trouble.
5. Pacif-i Smart Pacifier
Finally a pacifier that does more than quiet a baby or toddler. The Pacif-i Smart Pacifier records the child’s temperature and sends that information via an app to the parent’s phone. Medication information like type, dosage and when last administered can be entered into the app, plus it has a built-in tracker so it won’t get lost.
6. SkyBell Wi-Fi Video Doorbell
Connect the SkyBell Wi-fi Video Doorbell to your doorbell. It sends alerts to your smart phone when the doorbell is pressed and lets you see, hear and talk to the person on the other side before going to the door. You can also hold a remote conversation with the person at the door if you’re not at home.
7. Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Deadbolt
Works with both Android and iOS smart phones, the Kwikset Kevo Deadbolt opens with a touch of the lock. If you don’t have a smart phone, keep the key fob in your pocket or purse and enjoy the same technology. You can also send eKeys to guests you want to enter your home when you’re away, but you can limit the time they spend and how long their eKey works.
8. Belkin WeMo Switch
Any item that’s plugged into a socket can be replugged into the Belkin Wemo Switch, enabling you to turn the device off and on via your smartphone. Another feature, used with a free program called IFTTT, allows you to set up other functions including a motion sensor that sends you a text when it detects movement.
9. Philips hue A19 426353 Starter Kit
The Philips Hue kit is a blend of LED lighting and mobile technology that lets you adjust colors, timers and more from your phone or tablet. Create preset lighting combinations that relax, energize you or put you in other moods. Lasts longer and is more efficient than traditional halogen bulbs.
Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services -- especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.
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