The rate of technological advancement has led to rapid changes in home design. In the early 1990s, homes are with VCRs, landlines, and desktop computers. Today, homes have smart TVs, cell phones, and Wi-Fi routers. This pace of change will only continue as new technologies develop.
Some experts believe that the modern home is becoming obsolete. The rapid technological changes mean homeowners must continually upgrade their homes to keep up. However, other experts believe that current home is more adaptable than traditional homes. With new technologies come new opportunities for customization and personalization. You can adapt the modern home to meet the needs of each homeowner.
However, it doesn’t mean you’ll upgrade your home whenever you hear of a new gadget. You only need to make upgrades that will improve your quality of life. Here are the essential upgrades you should make to your home.
Home Automation System
If you’ve watched many movies featuring wealthy folks, you’ve seen a home automation system. It’s a system that allows you to control various aspects of your home with the touch of a button. For example, you can use it to turn on the lights, adjust the thermostat, or even start the coffee maker.
A home automation system makes life more convenient. You can operate everything from one central location. You can also create custom settings for different activities. For instance, you can create an environment that dims the lights and lowers the shades when you watch TV. Or you could create a setting that opens the garage door and turns on the porch light when you come home at night.
You don’t need to be wealthy to have a home automation system. Home automation systems are now more affordable than ever. You can find a basic design for under $200.
A home automation system is a worthwhile investment because it makes your life easier. It also adds value to your home. If you ever sell your home, potential buyers will be impressed by the features of a home automation system.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Appliances account for a large portion of your energy use. A typical American household spends $2,200 on energy bills each year, with nearly half going to devices.
You can reduce your energy bills by upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. Energy-efficient appliances use less electricity than traditional models. They also often have features that help you conserve energy, such as automatic shut-off and delayed start.
Energy-efficient appliances cost more upfront but save you money in the long run. They also help you reduce your carbon footprint.
The most energy-efficient appliances have the ENERGY STAR label. This designation is given to devices that meet specific energy-efficiency standards the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set.
When shopping for new appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR label. It would help if you also compared the annual operating cost of different models. This will help you find the most energy-efficient option for your home.
Smart Thermostat
Your thermostat is one of the most critical devices in your home. It controls your heating and cooling system, significantly impacting your energy bills.
A smart thermostat is a newer type you can control with your smartphone. It allows you to set temperature schedules so your home is comfortable when you need it to be.
You can also use a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust your energy usage. Some models will even give you tips on how to conserve energy.
A smart thermostat is a worthwhile investment because it can help you save money on energy bills. The average homeowner saves $180 annually by switching to a smart thermostat.
When shopping for a new thermostat, look for one compatible with your heating and cooling system. It would help if you also considered scheduling, energy monitoring, and ease of use.
Programmable Door Lock
A programmable door lock is a device that allows you to control when your door locks and unlocks. For example, you could automatically set it to close at 10 pm and open at 6 am.
A programmable door lock adds an extra layer of security to your home. It also gives you more control over who has access to your home. You can provide temporary access to house cleaners, delivery people, or other service providers.
You can find a programmable door lock for under $100. When shopping for one, look for features like automatic locking, scheduling, and remote access.
Home Security System
A home security system is an essential upgrade for any homeowner. A home security system includes sensors and cameras that monitor your home for intruders. It can also notify the authorities if an intruder is in your home.
A home security system is a significant investment, but it’s worth the cost to protect your home and family. Home security systems typically cost between $200 and $1,000.
When shopping for a home security system, look for one with motion sensors, door and window sensors, and a siren. You should also consider the monthly monitoring fee.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your home doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. These four upgrades will make your home more comfortable, energy-efficient, and secure. And they’re all relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
