Home Automation Systems For Vancouver BC Homeowners

Is your home smart enough?

This question might sound strange. You might be wondering how an inanimate object can have intelligence? Or, if you are already familiar with the term “smart” you might not have associated it with your home. Maybe, you already think you have a smart home but have never questioned how it compares to other smart homes.

Whether you are brand new to the world of smart homes or a self-proclaimed expert, ProActive Integrated Security has everything you need to make your home smarter.

WHAT IS A SMART HOME?

The simplest definition of a smart home is a home that uses connected technology to enhance either its living conditions or its operating systems.

What is connected technology? Products with real-world functions that are connected with each other and other systems using the internet in order to transmit data or be controlled remotely are called connected devices. Laptops and printers were some of the first devices to be connected. Connected or “smart” technology has its own intelligence. It learns through its interactions (or connections) with you.

The truth is, the elements of a smart home vary from home to home. A better question to ask is what does a smart home look like to you?

WHAT CAN I AUTOMATE?

Almost anything! Okay, you can’t automate making your bed … yet, but you can automate your bedroom lighting every night.

Deciding where to start will depend on your home, your needs, and your budget. Looking for some inspiration? Keep reading.

A security system and/or CCTV Camera System can be integrated so that you can receive notifications on your phone. Monitor your security cameras, sensors, and alarms without relying solely on a third party. You can even view your front step, speak with anyone who rings your doorbell, and know if a door has been opened. All without even being home.

If you have a large home, an intercom system can help your kids kick that top-of-the-lungs-yelling habit they seem to have developed. Now, all you need is the touch of a button to get everyone to the dinner table on time. The intercom is also a life-saver when it comes to sleeping babies. Disable the doorbell at certain times to avoid the dreaded early wake-up at naptime.

Centralized Lighting Control is one of the more popular ways to automate the home. As a homeowner, you have the ability to control different aspects of your lighting, individually or in groups, using keypads or dimmers.

Landscape lighting is typically programmed to turn on/off at set times of the day improving outside security measures and making outdoor ambiance a breeze. Just set it and forget it.

Install your system during the construction phase of home building to streamline the amount of wall clutter from light switches, thermostats, and the like. Thoughtfully placing elements such as keypads and dimmers will improve the aesthetics of your home.

Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems, or HVACS, can be controlled remotely with a home automation system. Now, homeowners can view and control temperatures from anywhere in the world by using their mobile devices. You can easily adjust the heat so you arrive home to a warm house when traveling or program a regular schedule according to your work hours.

Many popular shading and drapery brands can be integrated with home automation. Automated shading can help immensely with energy management. Timing the drawing and opening of shades to take advantage of sunlight hours will reduce your home energy costs without you having to lift a finger.

Who doesn’t love to kick back with a bowl of popcorn and a late-night movie when they have the time? The only hiccup? Too many remote controls! Tablets, smartphones, and universal remotes can all be custom programmed to operate your entire home entertainment system — audio and visual.

Landscaping is a huge commitment when it comes to time and money and no one wants to see their investments go to waste due to neglect. Of course, not everyone has the time required to maintain a meticulous lawn or flower garden. You can save time, water, and money by automating your outdoor sprinkler and irrigation systems.

Doors and garage doors are easily upgraded by automation. If you are replacing existing doors, explore your options for automating things like locking, unlocking, and alarming. However, new doors aren’t always necessary. Many existing garage doors are easily upgraded to adapt to home automation systems. Your door can be controlled from anywhere using an app or, even, a voice-assisted technology.

WHAT WILL HOME AUTOMATION DO FOR ME?

Put your mind at ease with a quick glimpse at your phone. Connect the devices and appliances that you’ve self-automated to communicate with each other and with you to eliminate any nagging worries when you are away from home. Now you can double-check that the alarm was set, the coffee pot was turned off, and the kids are doing their homework.

Home automation will:

• Add convenience.
  Repetitive tasks can be done automatically or with fewer steps.
• Save money.
  Automatically programming utilities can lower your bills up to 25%.
• Enhance security.
  A less expensive alternative to home security companies, automation is a more affordable option for many homeowners.
• Improve safety.
  Automating indoor/outdoor lighting will lower instances of accidents. Having lights turn on automatically when you enter poorly lit areas will reduce tripping hazards.
• Help the environment.
  Preserve natural resources by reducing the amount of power your home uses. Powering down appliances and turning off lights when not in use is good for the environment.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where should I start?

The most influential factor in determining where to install automation in your home is your budget. The more complex the system is, the higher the cost. Start with less complicated options, such as lighting, and choose somewhere that is used often. You’ll get more satisfaction from something that improves your everyday life rather than something you hardly use. Speak with a professional to determine what areas of home automation are in your price range — you might be surprised at how many options you have!

Do I need an internet connection?

Yes. If you are looking to monitor your home remotely, you will need a secure internet connection. The control panels in your home will connect to your home internet connection. If your home internet goes down, there are backup measures in place to keep your home functioning. Lighting and appliances will be workable.  Security cameras may stop streaming and recording, but you won’t be stranded in a dark, cold house.

Can I synchronize automation?

You can coordinate your systems to work together according to set conditions. For example, the coffee can start perking and the shower starts running when your alarm goes off each morning. Or, when you set the system to “away” your thermostat lowers the heat and alarms the security system. Set up different modes throughout your home where lighting, music, and temperature work together to create the perfect setting for entertaining, cooking, reading … the options are endless.

How affordable is home automation?

Years ago, home automation systems were a high-end luxury item. Today, home automation is accessible to the average homeowner at reasonable prices. Specialized installation companies, like ProActive Integrated Systems, will get you set up with your perfect system, no matter how simple or complex.

WHO IS PROACTIVE INTEGRATED SECURITY & WHAT CAN THEY DO FOR ME?

We are a family-owned and operated business servicing the Greater Vancouver area. We pride ourselves in providing excellent customer service while using quality, top of the line products from 2GIG Technologies and other home automation manufacturers to build you a customized home automation system.

Call us at today (604) 522-2121 or fill out our contact form to learn what we can do for your home. Our professional assessment includes a detailed outline explaining where your home will benefit most, how you can personalize your automation, and what you can expect from our professional and warranty-backed installation process.