Can it be done? You bet it can!! Full-designed systems are for people who can throw £10k at a system that will just close your blinds and dim your lights which is nuts!

Im gonna show you how to set up a smart home on a budget that can have the same functionality as a high end Schneider system which costs around £1500 for the control screen alone!

Smart home isnt going away, check these stats on usage increase

I need to know How to set up a smart home on a budget!

I’m going to assume you understand what you mean by smart home systems and devices, if not check my post here which explains more you might just want to be able to control your heating from your phone or be able to dim your living room lights without having to get yourself off your couch!! Or you might want to control everything possible via phone or by a smart hub like an Echo dot or view.

What could I make Smart in my house ?

Lights

CCTV

Central Heating

Each Radiator

Door bell

Any plug socket

and of course, you need a ‘hub’ that can control all the above with either an app or even better by using your voice.

I’m going to list a few of the devices that i think will transform your house without breaking the bank.

Hubs/Control Units

These are the main connective control units of your smart home, (let’s call them hubs for simplicity) to be honest, you don’t need one to start out with, if you just want a smart thermostat, you don’t really need a hub for example, but once your smart home starts growing in connected devices, its better to have one device to control them all or you will end up with as many different apps to control then as devices themselves!!

For A more detailed reviews of smart hubs, check this post here

Hub choice is down to your preference and what the hub will control ( you have to check with each device if it can be controlled by the hub you have bought) Also all these hubs are at the end of the day smart speakers so they can play various media from your phone or connect to streaming services or internet radio.

Echo Show by Amazon,

£150

You’ve probably heard of “Alexa” right? well this is Amazon’s flagship echo model, this is literally 100’s of smart devices with either the app or your voice. It’s the one I use even though most of my tech is Apple!!

Apple Home Pod.

£299

High-quality hub that connects seamlessly with Apple’s growing army of compatible devices.

Google Nest hub Max.

£219

Like the Echo Show has a screen so if you connect your smart door bell to it you can see who’s at your door without relying on your phone.

Ok, so we now have the main ‘engine room’ of our smart infrastructure up and running so whats next in our how to set up a smart home on a budget guide?

Smart Thermostats

This is usually most people’s first step into the world of smart, smart thermostats are the go-to in heating controls when people change the boiler or when builders are building new houses, They have many features that will defo change your life for the better!! You can control your heating from your phone no matter where you are, they can also ‘learn’ your schedule, so your heating will be off whilst you’re at work and be nice and warm when you get home! The Nest one will also use geo-fencing to know when you’re coming home to have the heating ready for you!! Again for a more detail review of smart thermostats read this

Nest

£219

Feature-packed smart themo that ‘knows’ when you’re coming home!!

Hive

£90

The Hive is a cheaper option than the Nest, it also can learn your comings and going with Geolocation, Mini knows if you’ve gone out and left the heating on – and sends you an instant reminder to turn it off. Or better yet, connect it to a Hive Door Sensor and it’ll automatically switch off when your front door closes. Handy

Tado Smart Heating Kit

£99 for the thermostat £210 for the radiator starter pack

The benefit of the Tado system is it has small thermostatic controllers for you attach to your radiator valves so you can literally control the temp of each room with either your phone or your hub.

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Lighting Control

Smart lighting is one of the next systems you buy as you build your smart home and is a logical step in our how to set up a smart home on a budget list.

Smart lighting has a couple of benefits as well as it being super cool to control your lights with your voice (I have mine set up as Wesley Snipes did in Demolition Man, to switch on I say ‘illuminate!) You can set a schedule for them to come on or go off which is good for security and saving money. Again these systems operate with their own apps or check to see what works with your choice of hub

Phillips Smart Led Strip

I personally use this system in my kitchen above my units and I love it, you can change the colour, the time it comes on and goes off, you could put it behind your telly and you can cut it to size.

Tapo Smart Bulbs

If you want to be really budget-friendly, this 4 pack of smart bulbs will save you a nice chunk of change.

easily controlled by the tapo app or your choice of home hub.

Phillips Light Bar

Need something more directional? check these cool light bars from Phillips, which works with all the above hubs and their own smart App. This is perfect for creating a certain ambiance behind your telly.

Smart CCTV and Doorbells

Finally, to show you how to set up a smart home on a budget we come to CCTV and doorbells. The main benefit of smart CCTV over the regular camera and dvr system is, that you can access the footage wherever you have a decent internet connection plus they will notify you whenever they get triggered, thus prompting you to check your phone to see what’s happening or talk to whoever’s at your door.

Blink Outdoor

I use this camera to monitor my garden, and its quality and performance has been second to none. Hi-def pictures even in the rain, reliable alerts and a battery that has upto lasted 2 years! Also connects with amazon alexa so you can get voice notifications when theres a alarm event.

Arlo Cctv

Arlo is the main competitor of the Blink system and for most of the features there’s not much to choose from between the 2 ( they would probably disagree with me!) Again Good battery life, hi-def images and real-time notifications

Smart video doorbells

These have revolutionised front door security and convenience, now you’ll never miss another parcel, all the doorbells on offer door mainly the same thing although they do now charge to store your footage..boo! for a more detailed review check my post here

Smart Plugs

For the ultimate how to set up a smart home on a budget device, check out a smart plug, this way you can control any device ( that dosn’t need extra input to switch on) such as a heater, a lamp or a radio to boost your home security, again the tapo is as good as any

For this option, you don’t need a hub, just the app that controls it. From this app you control switch the plug on and off, set up a schedule or set holiday mode so the plug will switch on a telly, radio or lamp randomly to make it look like your house is occupied

Conclusion

So that’s the end of our how to set up a smart home on a budget, as you can see it is possible to do the smart home thing on a shoestring but still retain full functionality. Take my advice when you can and buy a hub, as you can literally control any device or full room or floor with just one tap. Believe me, once you start buying smart home gear you will keep going and before you know it you’ll have 8 different apps to control it all!. Trust me once you go smart you’ll never flick a light switch again!!

The post How to Set Up a Smart Home on a Budget appeared first on toptech7.com.

What is a smart thermostat and what does it do?

Ok, for the uninitiated in the world of smart tech, a brief explanation into the basics of smart heating controls.

A Smart thermostat is an I.O.T ( internet of things) device that you can control remotely with an app on your phone, So say for instance you get off work early in the middle of winter and you’re thin my house is going to be freezing when i get home, you can fire up your App and switch your heating on so your house will be toasty warm when you walk through the door.

The really cool ones even know when you’re coming home through a geo-fence and switch your heating on anyway!!

For a beginner guide to smart home systems check my post here

Ok, I’m in what is the best smart thermostat uk

There’s a couple of main players that you might of heard of, Nest and Hive. Honeywell who have made thermostats in various guises for ions have also brought out a smart model. Lets get into to features, benefits and shortcomings of each one.

Nest by Google

Nest brag that this thermostat ‘can’ save you 60% on your yeary heating bills. Pretty bold claims if you’re asking me, possibly if you just turned your heating on at the end of September and left it on till May then yes I suppose that 60% could be achievable.

This is probably my favourite of all the smart heating controls and why I’ve listed it first on my best smart thermostat uk list

I don’t know about 60% but using this “learning” thermostat you will defo save money, as it will ‘learn’ your heating preferences in the first week you’re using it and then uses this pattern going forward.

Features

• Self-learning: The Nest Learning Thermostat is perhaps best known for its ability to learn your heating and cooling preferences over time and create a personalised schedule to keep you comfortable while saving energy. It does this by observing your adjustments and routines, and then creating a program that meets your needs
• Home/Away Assist: This feature uses your phone’s location to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re home or away. This can help you save energy by preventing the heating or air conditioning from running when nobody’s home.
• Hot water control: Unlike many other smart thermostats, the Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd generation can also control your hot water heater. This means you can create a schedule for hot water, or turn it off remotely when you’re away from home.
• Farsight: Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd generation has a built-in Farsight feature that lights up the display as you approach, so you can easily see the temperature and adjust it if needed.
• Easy to use: The Nest Learning Thermostat is easy to install and use, even for those who are not tech-savvy. It has a clear and user-friendly interface, and it can be controlled remotely using the Nest app.

Price

£189

We Love ❤️

• Self Learning- no trying for hours to programme
• Heating Controls- easy way to turn down the water temp in summer
• ⭐️Super easy to fit and use

What we Hate 🤬

• Price. – not the cheapest
• No room sensor: This relies on the thermostat’s own temperature reading, which may not always reflect the temperature in other parts of your home, or you have to buy separate room sensors.
• Limited phone compatibility: Not compatible with all phone models, so check before you buy.

Verdict

Still my fav

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hive Smart Thermostat

Hive say this thermostat can save you £200 a year, which depending on your house and usage I’d say that it is achievable.

the main feature I love about the Hive is the Geo-fencing, so say you rush out to work and leave your heating on, the Hive will send you a message telling you about the heating and giving you the option to turn it off. It can aslo tell when your coming home and make sure your house is nice and warm, although unless you work like 40 miles away and set the geo-locater according i doubt your house will be warm if you working 10 minutes drive away , if you get me., but i still love the idea of it. For that feature alone this makes it onto my best smart thermostat uk list.

Features

• Heating schedules – set up to six daily time slots
• Heating and Hot Water Boost – for up to six hours
• Automatic Frost Protection – helps prevent frozen pipes
• Geolocation – heating alerts when you leave or return home
• Holiday Mode – tell Hive your holiday dates and come back to a warm welcome
• Hive App: turn your heating on and off via the Hive app or with your voice

Price

£129

What we Love ❤️

1. Smart Scheduling & Geolocation: Create schedules and receive alerts if you forget to turn off the heating, promoting energy efficiency and peace of mind.
2. Multi-Zone Heating (with add-ons): Offers the ability to control temperature in different rooms for targeted heating and potentially significant energy savings (requires additional purchases).
3. Voice Control: Integrates with popular smart speakers for convenient hands-free control.

What We Hate 🤬

• Subscription for Advanced Features: Some key functionalities, like detailed energy reports and extended warranty, require a paid Hive Heating Plus subscription.
• Reliance on Hub (Some Models): Earlier Hive thermostat models rely on a separate hub for internet connection, adding an extra piece of equipment to set up.
• Limited Multi-Zone Control (Without Add-Ons): Without purchasing additional Hive smart radiator valves, the multi-zone functionality is unavailable, limiting its room-by-room temperature control capabilities.

Verdict

A definite contender, maybe more down to personal choice

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

tado° V3+ Smart Thermostat

The one differing feature of the Tado from the others is the amount of add-ons you can buy to customise your smart heating exactly how you like, the main one for me is the individual radiator controls. So you buy a smart radiator thermostatic controller, like the one below:

And you can control, programme and adjust each room totally separately from the others and places it on my best smart thermostat uk list, for instance, someones ill in bed and got the shivers, you can turn that room to 23 degrees, but you don’t want to be melting in the kitchen whilst you’re cooking your pie and mash so you simply turn that one down, totally love that, for me that could save you a fortune, although if you buy one for each radiator and you’ve got like 13 rads in you house at £75 a pop not many people are gonna have £975 to spend on room stats?????

Features

• Multi-Zone Heating: Control the temperature in different rooms of your home using smart radiator valves (often sold separately). This allows for targeted heating and potentially significant energy savings.
• Intelligent Geofencing: Automatically adjusts heating based on your phone’s location, saving energy when you’re away. It can also learn your routines over time.
• Open Window Detection: Identifies sudden drops in temperature that could indicate an open window and temporarily pauses heating to prevent wasted energy.
• Detailed Insights and Reports: Provides reports on your heating habits and energy consumption, helping you identify areas for improvement. (Some advanced reports may require a subscription).
• Voice Control Compatibility: Works with popular smart speakers like Alexa and Google Assistant for convenient hands-free control of your heating.

Price

£180

What We Love ❤️

• Multi-Zone Heating & Efficiency: Offers targeted heating in different rooms with compatible valves (often sold separately), potentially leading to significant energy savings.
• Intelligent Features: Learns your routines, utilizes geofencing for automatic adjustments, and detects open windows to optimize energy use.
• Detailed Insights & Voice Control: Provides reports on heating habits and energy consumption for better control, and integrates with smart speakers for hands-free operation.

What We Hate 🤬

• Higher Cost & Potential Add-ons: The base unit may be more expensive than some options, and achieving full multi-zone heating requires additional radiator valves, adding to the overall cost.
• Subscription for Advanced Insights: Detailed reports and some advanced features might require a separate tado° subscription.
• Installation Complexity (for some): Installation can be more complex compared to simpler thermostats, especially if you need to install multiple radiator valves.

Verdict

Love the customisation, hate the price of customisation!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Honeywell T6 Smart Thermostat:

The Honeywell smart thermostat makes it onto my best smart thermostat UK list purl;y for its simplicity and no fuss unit. For me it is definitely a no-frills, does what it says on the tin type of set-up. Yes you can control it with an app like the others, programme when it comes on and goes off but that’s about it. As you can see from my feature list, i could of even highlighted that is a nice black colour!!

Features

• Smart Scheduling: Create personalized schedules for heating and hot water to ensure your home is comfortable when you need it and energy-efficient when you’re away.
• Mobile App Control: Control your heating and hot water remotely from anywhere using the Honeywell Home app on your smartphone or tablet. This allows for adjustments on the go and additional convenience.
• Broad Compatibility: Works with most boiler systems, including combi boilers, OpenTherm technology, and heat pumps (check compatibility for your specific system). This makes it a versatile option for various heating setups.
• Voice Assistant Integration: Integrates with popular smart speakers like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free control of your heating with voice commands.
• Large Touchscreen Display: Features a user-friendly touchscreen display with clear visuals for easy temperature adjustments and viewing current settings. This provides a simple and intuitive user experience.

Price

£150. no add ons!!

What we Love ❤️

• Easy to Use & Affordable: Offers a user-friendly interface with a touchscreen display and mobile app control, making it accessible for users of all tech levels. It’s also generally priced competitively compared to other high-end thermostats.
• Broad Compatibility: Works with a wide variety of boiler systems, including combi boilers, OpenTherm technology, and heat pumps. This makes it a versatile option for many homes without requiring additional compatibility checks.
• Smart Features & Convenience: Provides smart scheduling for energy efficiency, remote control via the app for adjustments on the go, and integrates with voice assistants for hands-free control.

What we Hate 🤬

• Limited Multi-Zone Control: This doesn’t offer multi-zone heating capabilities, unlike some competitors. This means you cannot control the temperature in different rooms of your home independently.
• Subscription Might Be Needed (uncertain): While core features seem readily available, there may be a possibility of needing a subscription for advanced functionalities. It’s important to check with the manufacturer or retailer for clarification.
• Lacks Some Advanced Features: Compared to some high-end models, it might lack features like detailed energy reports or intelligent geofencing for automatic adjustments based on your location.

Verdict

Good no frills, but if we’re going smart, it needs to be smarter for me!

⭐️⭐️⭐️

Conclusion

The question is do I need one? yes, you could jump up and down changing the temperature in your house, but why do that if you can get an app to do it? I’d have an app for everything if they existed!!

Well, if you’re reading this you like smart tech, so I’d say, yes you need one. It will save you money over time, and you can pay 3 figures for a non-smart 7-day programmable thermostat so it would serve you well to splash another £50 and be able to control your heating from your phone or cooler still shout orders at your smart speaker. If you just starting the world of smart this could be your first step in the arena of smart tech so take my advice and make the jump.

The post Best Smart Thermostat Uk in 2024 appeared first on toptech7.com.

we will have a look and some tricky new smart door locks an AI pillow!!! ( tinfoil hat wearers will be quaking in their boots!!) and an awesome ceiling light that doubles as a projector

Enough of the intro lets check some of the best new smart home tech of 2024

We love smart home tech right? i would literally have an app to control my entire house if i could and i probably could if i had enough money.

Roomba Combo® j9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop

Now I know this is a robot hoover and its not really smart home but if you have a house and it needs hoovering so whats smarter than getting a robot to hoover an mop it?

This J9 Hoover and mop is the top of the tree when it comes to smart robot floor cleaners, not only can it hoover your house when you’re out it can mop your hard floors and self empty!!! How cool is that? For a detailed look at robot floor cleaners check my post here

Motion A.I powered pillow!!!

Yes you read it right. this is an A.I powered pillow, don’t worry it wont kill you in your sleep i promise you!

An AI-powered pillow might sound like tech overstepping the mark, but bear with us – what if we said it might stop you or your partner from snoring? That’s the pitch behind the Motion Pillow

This inflatable pillow (don’t worry, it’s made of memory foam, like many of todays best pillows is joined by a Motion System Unit, which identifies snoring sounds and will slowly inflate the offending person’s pillow. This gently turns their head to the side, opening their airways to create some peace.

It won an award at CES2024 too

The companion app also handily gives you insights into your sleep as well as letting you adjust settings just like the sleep app on your apple watch

How does it work?:

If it identifies the sound as definitely a snore, the pillow itself is activated. It will slowly inflate, causing the sleeper’s head to turn to the side – a sleep position that opens the airways and is much less likely to induce snoring. The inflation process is designed to be quiet and gentle, to cause as little disruption as possible, and you can adjust the height to which the pillow inflates to suit the sleeper’s build. 

The whole thing is operated via a companion app (available for Apple and Android). As well as using it to adjust settings, the app will also provide you with data around how long you were snoring for and how often the pillow had to intervene to keep you quiet. And if you want an insight into your partner’s experience of spending the night with you, it’ll even play back a recording of your snoring sounds for you, which might cause problems but hey ho

Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Smart Lock

Ok we’ve all lost our keys at some point, need a solution for that? here you go the Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Smart Lock will recognise your face and unlock your door for you.

First thing I thought of when I saw this was, what happens if you’ve got a twin who you hate? What happens if you get your head kicked in on a night out and finally what happens if you go in for some plastic surgery but I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s thought of these things!! The Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Smart Lock is available now at about £350

Ring Always Home Cam

How Resident evil is this? The Ring Always Home Cam actually patrols your house in a customised flight path recording and or stream the footage. Features include:

• A new kind of camera – The Ring Always Home Cam is a first-of-its-kind flying indoor security camera for your home that flies along custom flight paths so you can see what’s happening around your home no matter where you are.
• Get better perspectives – See what’s going on in 1440×1440 HD video, with a built-in LED that automatically lights up the path when recording at night or in dim environments.
• Look in anytime – Left a window open or the stove on? Create custom flight paths ahead of time so you can manually check in with the Ring App from anywhere.
• Security when it’s triggered – If your Ring Alarm contact sensors or motion detectors are triggered, Always Home Cam will automatically fly to see what’s happening.
• For your privacy – Always Home Cam’s camera never records when the device is docked and only records during trained flight paths.

First reports are saying the noise of the drone is actually quite loud but the only way I can see this being a problem is if it spooks your dog out which depending on the temperament of your dog could be an issue

Think this is only available in Usa right now. Check the ring website for more details and pricing https://ring.com/always-home-cam-flying-camera

Kohler Smart Shower System:

This is the newest smart home tech for showering, features a ton of different customisable settings to provide you with the ultimate shower experience:

• Digital control with easy-to-read configurable colour touch screen
• Can control shower outlets, audio output, chromatherapy, steam and lighting
• Ability to upgrade to the KOHLER Konnect® platform for voice-enabled control of the showering system​​ ​​
• Can control one or two digital valves to provide two different shower temperatures
• Six user-definable presets for saving your favorite settings
• Integrated preprogrammed temperature and hydrotherapy programs for spa-like showering experiences
• System warm-up and pause feature
• Up to three interfaces can be connected to each system.

Philips Hue Sync Box Kit 2

into gaming or movie nights? then the Philips Hue Sync Box Kit 2 is your next purchase, you plug the smart box into your telly and the smart box syncs the light strip with the audio transmitted from your source which will give your gaming experience a new cool, although at £300 it seems a bit pricey when my under-cabinet led strip also syncs with audio it that certainly wasn’t £300!! but Hue has always been on the top end of smart lights.

The RCA Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder

No list of Best New Smart Home Tech would be complete without a device that makes our lives easier when we forget to do something, now you can set up a schedule for the RCA pet feeder to serve dry food to your pet at a pre-determined time or by the touch of a button via the app ( we love companion apps don’t we?) It also boasts a 1080p wifi enabled camera so you can see your pooch or moggy whilst they have their lunch. All we need now is something to clean up the poop from the garden!!!

This Concludes our Best New Smart Home Tech list

There is some pretty cool tech coming out this year, I really want the patrolling CCTV drone from ring, i think smarter home security could be a game changer in the next couple of years, would i buy a walking A.I powered robot walk the floor of my house? If it stops my house from getting robbed then my answer is Hell YEAH

The post Best New Smart Home Tech For 2024 appeared first on toptech7.com.

Some people love cleaning, and some people post pictures of the cleaning products they’ve just bought and get hundreds of likes on those pictures, I hate cleaning!! I mean really hate it and I’m not very good at it …apparently!!! I need a top 5 must have gadgets for home cleaning list and I need it now!!!

Now I know some things are unavoidable like hoovering the stairs or wiping up my lunch that I spilt in the kitchen, but what if I could automate some of the tasks I fail miserably at? I mean this is a gadget blog and there is a gadget for everything right?

Read on and prepare to hook yourself up with some tricky gadgets that can free up your time for more interesting things rather than mopping your kitchen

I’m in, give me the top 5 must have gadgets for home cleaning so i don’t have to!!

1. The AI Vacuum Architect: Your Floor’s New Floor Plan iRobot Rumba s9+

Forget clunky, outdated models. Today’s robotic vacuums are AI-powered cartographers, meticulously mapping your home with laser precision. Gone are the days of random bumps and missed corners. Meet the iRobot Roomba s9+: an intelligent titan that navigates like a seasoned explorer, tackling crumbs, pet hair, and even large debris with ease. No tangled wires, no frustration, just the quiet satisfaction of spotless floors.

Now this is a series piece of kit and top-end tech doesn’t come cheap remember, But the IRobot s9+ is literally the top end of the robot hoover market. Forgot about spending 45 minutes hoover your entire flat when you come home from work then have to go out in the pissing rain to empty a week of dust into the bin, this baby will do this for you whilst you’re at work, empty the shite out and then take itself back to its handy charging station ready for its next task!

For a more detailed post on robot hoovers, check my post here

Key Features:

• LiDAR technology for laser-guided mapping and navigation
• Powerful suction for carpets, hard floors, and even pet hair avalanches
• Self-emptying capabilities for weeks of worry-free cleaning
• Smartphone app control for scheduling, monitoring, and even customizing cleaning zones

2. The Mopping Maestro: From Sticky Spills to Gleaming Gratitude

Spills and muddy paw prints tremble before the might of the robotic mop. These technological magicians glide across hardwood, tile, and even laminate, leaving behind nothing but sparkling smiles. The Ecovacs Deebot X1 Mop 2 Pro is a multi-talented maestro, boasting vibrating mops for stubborn grime and smart carpet detection to avoid dampening your rugs. It’s like having a miniaturized floor-polishing genie at your beck and call.

Similar to the iRobot for mopping tasks which let’s face it most of us hate, this little beauty will even fill up its own tank in case you forget, it will also sense where your carpet is so you don’t come home to soggy carpets!!! Ti will mop for 300 minutes and cover 4300 square metres of dirty floor.

Key Features:

• Multiple cleaning modes for different floor types and messes
• Vibrating mops for extra cleaning power against tenacious dirt
• Automatic water tank refill reminders to keep the magic flowing
• Carpet detection technology to protect your precious rugs

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3. The Window Wizard: Banish Streaks, Embrace the Sunshine

Window cleaning once meant precarious acrobatics and perilous squeegee battles. No more! Robotic window wizards like the Hobot Legee-7s cling to your windows with the tenacity of a gecko, meticulously scrubbing both sides with microfiber pads. Watch in awe as it navigates obstacles, even cleaning window frames, leaving you with nothing but a panoramic view and a sense of smug satisfaction.

This is mission-impossible stuff, you literally stick it to your windows and it will climb up the glass cleaning and drying as it goes, you do have to buy extra suction pads but if you’ve got tall windows and you’re not much good up a ladtter then this sorts out your problems my friend

Key Features:

• Powerful suction for secure window adherence, even on high-rises
• Multi-surface compatibility for windows, mirrors, and even shower doors
• Automatic edge detection for obstacle-free cleaning, no ladders required
• Fall protection mechanisms for added peace of mind, even for vertigo-prone homeowners

4. The Smart BIn: Sorting Simplified, Hygiene Amplified

Ditch the overflowing bin and step into the future of waste management with the Simplehuman Sensor Can. This intelligent receptacle opens automatically with a wave of your hand, keeping germs at bay and your kitchen smelling fresh. But it’s not just about convenience. Multiple compartments allow for easy sorting, helping you become a recycling champion. Imagine the bragging rights!

This as such isn’t really in the same category as the other three as a fire-and-forget sort of gadget, but it does help you sort your rubbish so you’re not running outside multiple times to all of your different bins!!! Plus if you’re germ-phobic this bin will be right up your alley as you don’t have to touch the lid where you spilt last night’s lasagne!!

Key Features:

• Motion sensor for hands-free opening and hygienic disposal
• Multiple compartments for recycling, composting, and general waste
• Odor control technology with activated charcoal filters to neutralize unpleasant aromas
• Voice control compatibility for ultimate convenience, because everyone loves yelling at inanimate objects sometimes

5. The Air Purifying Powerhouse: Breathe Easy, Live Healthy

City life often comes with unwelcome guests: dust, allergens, and even pollutants that dance their way into your lungs. Banish these microscopic intruders with the Bosch Air 6000, an air-purifying juggernaut that removes harmful particles with the efficiency of a ninja master. Breathe in the sweet scent of clean air as this marvel monitors your air quality and adjusts its settings automatically, ensuring your home is a haven of freshness.

If you’re like me and love a takeaway or top cook big arse pieces of steak you can’t help filling your house with fatty, pungent smells, if you care about your air quality or the background smells in your house an air purifier might be the answer. I would just leave this on and let it do its job and you can sit back and enjoy your big piece of steak in your fresh hepa filtered room!!

Key Features:

• HEPA filtration for capturing even the tiniest particles, from pollen to pet dander
• Air quality sensors for real-time monitoring of your indoor environment
• Automatic adjustments for optimal cleaning, taking the guesswork out of air purification
• Smartphone app control for remote monitoring and adjustments, perfect for adjusting the air quality while lounging on the couch

Beyond the Gadgets: Orchestrating Your Automated Symphony

Remember, automation thrives on organisation. Utilise the built-in app features or your smart home assistant to choreograph your robo-helpers. Let them tackle the grime while you’re at work, leaving you to return to a gleaming oasis. Bonus points for investing in quality consumables like replacement filters and microfiber cloths to keep your gadgets performing at their peak.

With these amazing tools and a dash of scheduling savvy, you can transform your home from a battleground of housework into a sanctuary. and if you’re really on top of your game you can sync your home cleaning gadgets with your smart home so they can work together.

So that concluded our Top 5 Must Have Gadgets For Home Cleaning list, I know some of these arnt exactly cheap, but over time, they’d definitely be cheaper than a cleaner coming in 3 times a week and lets face if your robot hoover trips over a pair of your dirty undercrackers the chances of you ending up in a compensation case are pretty low!!!

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It certainly is possible but not guaranteed that you could save money by switching to smart heating, check this article here about the possible savings

What do I need to know when I’m trying to find out how to choose smart heating

Smart heating systems have several advantages over traditional heating controls, such as:

Remote control

You can adjust your heating from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, or PC. This means you can turn your heating on or off, change the temperature, or set a schedule without being at home. You can also monitor your energy usage and get alerts if there are any issues with your system.

Learning and automation:

Some smart heating systems can learn your preferences and habits, and adjust your heating accordingly. For example, they can detect when you leave or return home, and turn your heating on or off automatically, so for example your heating can learn what tine you leave for work and what time you come home, some can also ( by the way of geo-fencing) detect if you decide to come home early! They can also sense the weather, the time of day, or the presence of people or pets in your home, and adapt your heating to suit your needs

Zonal control

Some smart heating systems allow you to control the temperature of each room or zone in your home independently. This means you can heat only the rooms you use, and avoid wasting energy on empty or unused spaces. You can also create different schedules and settings for different rooms, depending on your comfort and preferences.

Compatibility and integration:

Most smart heating systems are compatible with different types of boilers, radiators, and heating systems. They can also integrate with other smart home devices, such as smart speakers, lights, cameras, or security systems. This allows you to create a connected and smart home environment, and control everything with your voice or a single app.

What are the types of smart heating systems?

There are different types of smart heating products and accessories that make up a smart heating system. Some can be used independently, and others need to be used together. The main types are:

Smart thermostats:

These are devices that connect your central heating system to the internet and allow you to control your heating remotely through an app or a website. They can also have learning and automation features, such as geofencing, weather sensing, or open window detection. Some smart thermostats can also control your hot water, as well as your central heating. Smart thermostats can either be wired or wireless and can either replace your existing thermostat or work alongside it. For a more in-depth view of smart thermostats, check my post here

Smart radiator valves:

These are devices that connect to your radiators, and allow you to control their temperature output remotely through an app or a website. They can also have learning and automation features, such as occupancy sensing, adaptive start, or child lock. Smart radiator valves enable you to create zonal control in your home, and heat only the rooms you need. Most smart radiator valves need to be connected to a smart hub, which is a device that connects all your smart heating devices to the internet and acts as a central controller.

Smart central heating control packs:

These are bundles of smart heating devices that include a smart hub, a smart thermostat, and one or more smart radiator valves. They are designed to work together as a complete smart heating system, and allow you to control your heating and hot water remotely and create zonal control in your home. They can also have learning and automation features, such as self-learning, presence detection, or voice control.

Smart electric radiators:

These are electric heaters that can be controlled remotely through an app or a website. They can also have learning and automation features, such as energy monitoring, adaptive start, or open window detection. Smart electric radiators are ideal for homes that do not have a central heating system, or for rooms that need extra heating, such as conservatories, garages, or lofts.

What are the features to look for when deciding how to choose smart heating

When choosing a smart heating system, you should consider the following features and factors:

Compatibility:

You should check if the smart heating system is compatible with your existing boiler, radiator, and heating system. You should also check if it is compatible with other smart home devices, such as smart speakers, lights, cameras, or security systems. You can find this information on the product’s website, manual, or packaging, or by contacting the manufacturer or retailer.

Installation:

You should check how easy or difficult it is to install the smart heating system, and whether you need a professional installer or not. Some smart heating systems are plug-and-play, and can be installed by yourself in minutes. Others may require wiring, drilling, or plumbing, and may need a qualified engineer or electrician to install them. You should also check if the installation is included in the price, or if you need to pay extra for it.

Cost:

You should compare the prices of different smart heating systems, and see which one offers the best value for money. You should also consider the running costs, and how much you can save on your energy bills by using a smart heating system. Some smart heating systems may have additional costs, such as subscription fees, maintenance fees, or battery replacements. You should also check if the smart heating system is eligible for any grants, discounts, or incentives, such as the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme, or the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme.

Main Players

There are 3 main manufactures of smart heating controls, nest mainly supply just the thermostat where as tado make the smart radiator controls also.

Nest around £150

• AUTO-AWAY
• It automatically adjusts the temperature after you leave. It can even turn off your hot water if you’re away for a few days.
• HOT WATER
• Now you can control your hot water tank. And give your hot water a boost when you need it.
• AUTO-SCHEDULE
• Just turn it up and down. It learns the temperatures you like and creates a schedule for you.

Hive around £80

• Tap, talk or let Mini take care of it
• Set schedules and boost your heating all from the Hive app – or just ask Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to do it for you. Then let Mini take care of the rest. If you need to, you can use its simplified controls to set the temperature and switch between modes.
• Left the heating on back home? We’ll tell you.
• With Geolocation, Mini knows if you’ve gone out and left the heating on – and sends you an instant reminder to turn it off. Or better yet, connect it to a Hive Door Sensor and it’ll automatically switch off when your front door closes. Handy.

Tado starter kit around £160

• Adapt your heating to suit your routine With the Smart Schedule, tado lets you plan your desired day and night time temperatures in time blocks based on your routine.
• Let the sun warm up your home tado takes local weather forecasts into account. It turns down the heating, if the sun is warming up your home, to save energy.
• Breathe healthier air with tado With the Air Comfort Skill, tado advises you on how to keep the air in your home healthy. It also gives you insights about the outdoor air quality.
• Never heat an empty home With Geofencing, tado reminds you to turn down the heating when the last person leaves home and to turn it up in time for the first person’s arrival.

Reviews:

You should read the reviews of other customers who have bought and used the smart heating system, and see what they think about its performance, quality, reliability, and customer service. You can find reviews on online platforms, such as Amazon, Trustpilot, or Which?, or on the product’s website or social media pages. You can also ask for recommendations from your friends, family, or neighbours who have smart heating systems in their homes.

Conclusion

Smart heating systems are devices that allow you to control your home’s temperature and heating schedule remotely through the internet. They can help you save money on your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and make your home more comfortable and convenient. You should consider the benefits, types, features, compatibility, installation, cost, and reviews of different smart heating systems, and compare them to find the one that suits your needs and budget. You can also visit the websites of some of the leading smart heating brands, to learn more about their products and services.Don’t forget to always secure your smart home, to learn how check my guide here

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Do you trust Smart Locks? And what are they?

A smart lock is a replacement lock usually for your main access door they usually doesn’t require a key to gain entry to your house. They use the lock manufactures app and will use your phone’s N.F.C (near field communication) software to open the lock or you can type in a code.

This all sounds great, you know the deal, it’s pouring with rain, you have your hands full of shopping and you can’t find or grab your keys, just wave your phone in front of your door and you’re in! (or tap in a code!!) I’m sure you have questions , so let’s look at the main points.

Are They Safe Enough?

In short, yes, they can’t be ‘hacked’ as you might think, the only way of accessing your house is with the app, password or most locks have a manual, physical over-ride key. You can create different access codes for different people so you can see who’s coming or going, for example, you might give a access code to your neighbour whilst you’re on holiday to come in and water your plants.

Surely They Can Be Hacked

Not the locks themself. The only other way would be if someone would be able to gain access to your Wifi password but the chances of your average bally’ed up house robbed will not have the skill to crack a hexidecimal wpa2 wifi password I can imagine is pretty thin.

One thing that you do have think about is, if you buy one with a physical keypad, make sure you clean the button every week because the grease off your finger will make it obvious what numbers are used in your code.

There has been issues over certain bluetooth devices having a certain vulnerability, check that here But for extra peace of mind I’d follow these tips:

• Only buy a good quality lock from a well know manufacturer, like Yale, Schlang or August.
• Keep the firmware upto date and do any app updates as soon as they come out. for tips on securing your smart home tech check my post here
• Pick a monster password.

Ok, whats the good points. ❤️

• You don’t need to carry ( or worry about losing) you key when you leave the house.
• You can connect your lock to a smart hub or digital assistant so it can announcement. some one at your door or if they have a code Alexa can tell you who’s just walked in your house.
• Give out access codes to people you trust like dog walkers or family members, you can get notified when you they come in or out and you can pull access rights at any time and set times for certain people to come in.

And The Bad Points 🤬

• If you don’t have one with a over ride key and the power goes.. you’re screwed. If you lose your phone or the battery dies…you’re screwed. Internet down?…you’re screwed.
• You have to change the batterys.
• Looks, they’re not the nicest looking locks, they tend to make your door look like it’s off star trek.
• Might take some getting used to if some of your family aren’t as tech savy as yourself, you might here them say ‘It’s witchcraft” or ‘Whats wrong with a yale key’

How Much Are They?

Here could be the deal breaker, if you buy cheap are they more likely to let you down, I’d say so, cheap tech can ruin your whole day so beware. I wouldn’t buy a cheap one just to say i had one. So expect to pay anything from £90 for a simple one to well over £300 for a biometric one with key over-ride. Which is a considerable amount more that an insurance backed 5 level deadlock for about £50, but this is a gadget blog isn’t it and no-one said this obsession we share was gonna be cheap!

So Do We Run Out and Get One?

I’d consider everything we’ve said above and see if that fits, don’t not get one because you thing any 14 year geek with a laptop if gonna wonder in and out of your house, chances of that happening are pretty thin.

What I would say is, what are you gonna do if your internet or power go down? if that s the case make sure you get one with a key override, but then are you defeated one of the advantages of the thing in the first place…not carrying a door key. Maybe hide a lockable key box for that emergency.

Do you like the look of it? does it make your front door look like an office block?

Or at the end of the day so obsessed with tech that this is the last piece in your smart home jigsaw? And who carries keys about apart from a jailer right?

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Don’t Know What You’re On About, What’s Smart Home?

Smart home has been around for a while now, but as the tech becomes more accessible, easier to use and most importantly, cheaper more and more people are taking advantage of it. The basics are you can buy a device, usually called a hub, that can control everyday appliances in your house like a light, your heating or security. if you want to know more check my more in depth post here

Ok, I Get It, So Is Smart Home Usage Increasing?

Hell yeah it is, and us Brits love it, compared to its early days when the only thing you could get it to do would be to dim or turn off your £120 Philips Hue light bulb, theres a whole host of devices your can control. Just check the stats.

• In 2018, there were 5.9 million smart homes in the UK, representing 23.1% of all households.
• The number of smart homes grew by an average of 14.8% every year from 2018 to 2023, reaching 6.9 million in 2019 and then 8.1 million in 2020.
• In 2021, the number of smart homes surpassed 10 million for the first time, reaching 10.4 million.
• By 2022, the total number of smart homes in the UK was 12.1 million
• The latest smart home statistics from a survey show that as many as 14.2 million households in the UK were actively using smart home devices in 2023, indicating a 17.4% increase
• The current penetration rate of smart homes in the UK is 46.7%, and it is expected to grow rapidly and reach 61.2% by 2026. The estimated number of smart UK households for that year is 17.9 million
• The UK smart home market size reached £5.31 billion in 2022, and it is projected to grow by 12.34% (2022-2028), resulting in a market volume of £9.31 billion in 2028
• The British Smart Home market revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.63% between 2022 to 2027, reaching £7.61 billion by 2027
• On average, revenue gained from every installed Smart home is projected at £537.17
• 23% of British households own at least one smart home device, according to a YouGov survey.
• Amazon and Google have sold 150 million smart speakers in just 4 years check the market share table below:

• Smart Tv’s are the most popular smart home product in the world most probably because every tv sold now is smart!

98% of people who own a smart device are satisfied with their experience, according to a 2017 PricewaterhouseCoopers study.

• setting up a smart home could save you £317 a year when you think about the lights you could of left home, heating empty rooms or having your heating on till 10 o’clock when you’re in work at 9!
• Amazon Echo is the most popular smart speaker in the uk
• Smart home devices save most people an average of eight days per year, how? ‘I’ve forgot to switch off the light in the bedroom’ theres time spent going upstairs to switch it off. ‘How much beer have i got left in the fridge’ i’ll just look on the camera that fitted to my smart fridge.
• “Isn’t it just dead money” No it really isn’t, 65% of people would pay more for a smart home, according to a John Burns Real Estate Consulting survey of 22,000 people

And its only gonna get bigger check this page for super detailed stats

Conclusion:

Smart tech and smart homes are going away, once you make the jump you’ll never look back, trust me, I’m a Tech Doctor! but seriously, you need to embrace it with open arms, don’t worry about security, check my post here on how to secure your smart home, it’s not complicated check my post on setting up here. You don’t have go all in and Spend £1000’s in one go, you don’t even need a hub for a super simple set up you might just need an app. But be warned, once you witness how easy your life could become with smart tech you’ll want more an more, i mean who actually still closes the blinds with the little handle thing? what are we still in the 90’s??

The post In 2023 How Is Smart Home Usage Increasing In The UK? appeared first on toptech7.com.

But what are your choices? for the purpose of this post we are only going to talk about the main 3 players in the plug and play devices Apple Home Hub, Amazons Alexa system and google nest system. As you can install and crazy wired in system that need more computing power that a bitcoin miner.

Want to add extra stuff into your smart? check my post here on the top 5 smart gadgets you need here

Remember with all these devices, security is super important, check my post on securing your smart home here

Let’s list the 3 best smart home systems for 2023 that you can buy on the high street

Apple Home Pod 2 Price: £299

For the purpose of this test, i’m going to use Apples home pod which is essentially a smart speaker but provides a perfect platform to run Apples Homekit software, please note you don’t have to buy the hub, you can run it off your ipad

Features

• Immersive, high-fidelity audio
• High-excursion woofer
• Beamforming array of five tweeters
• Spatial Audio 
• Room sensing
• Stereo pair capable you can only pair another home hub speaker though
• Multi-room audio 
• Smart home hub using apples home kit
• Sound Recognition- Can detect smoke, carbon monoxide or fire alarms and send you a message
• Temperature and humidity sensor 
• Private and secure

What can Homekit do?

HomeKit isn’t a product or software; it’s a framework that links smart home products together and adds new capabilities to devices like lights, locks, cameras, thermostats, plugs, and more. HomeKit lets you control smart home products using apps on your iPhone iPad or Mac, or simple Siri voice commands.

While controlling smart home products with ‌Siri‌ or with an ‌iPhone‌ is convenient, the real magic of HomeKit comes when you have multiple HomeKit-enabled products because you can control them all at once using scenes or set up automations so that they activate automatically.

You can set up a good night mode where it will make sure all your smart locks are secure.

What We Love ❤️

• Centralised control: Apple Home Hub allows you to control all your smart home devices from a single dashboard, making it convenient and easy to manage your home automation5.
• Privacy and security: Home Hub devices, such as HomePod and Apple TV, are built with robust security measures and privacy policies, ensuring the protection of your data and restricting the ability of smart device makers to collect and share your information5.
• Support for emerging standards: Home Hub devices support connectivity with Matter and Thread, two emerging wireless standards that aim to make the smart home more versatile and cross-compatible5.
• Integration with Apple ecosystem: If you already use Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, or Macs, integrating a Home Hub into your smart home setup will be seamless and provide a cohesive user experience5.
• Easy setup: Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem makes it extremely easy to set up devices, usually taking seconds to minutes, and the Home app is well-organized and intuitive, even for casual smart home users

What We Hate 🤬

• Limited compatibility: Home Hub devices only work with Apple devices, so if you have non-Apple smart home devices, they may not be compatible with the Home Hub ecosystem
• Cost: Home Hub devices, such as HomePod and Apple TV, can be more expensive compared to other smart home hubs on the market
• iPad limitations: While iPads can be used as Home Hubs, they are not supported on the new, more reliable, and efficient Home architecture, which is available as a separate upgrade in the Home app.
• Dependence on Apple services: To fully utilize the features of a Home Hub, you need to be signed in to iCloud with the Apple ID used to set up your HomeKit and Matter accessories, which may be a drawback for users who prefer not to use Apple services
• Limited third-party options: Apple does not currently offer third-party options for Home Hub devices, so you are limited to the available Apple products for your smart home setup

Why should I buy it?

If you’re like me and have a world of Apple products, then this is a logical step, like most of these systems they only really work well or at all with products from their own catalogue, there is a full list of compatible on Apples website here the list is massive and is only gonna get bigger.

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I know you can only use Apple stuff with it, but I’m already all in with Apple!!

Amazon Alexa £184.99 Echo Show

Alexa and it’s numerous little speakers have been around in the smart home sector for a while now, I don’t know many people who haven’t at some time owned a dot!! Amazons system like Apples is compatible with a wide range of kit including many non-amazon products, eg most Phillips hue lights will work with alexa.

Again remember, the devices you see above are broadly mini speakers/screens. For the purpose of this article the features i’ll list will be for the echo show, but you can control your connected devices on any amazon assistant platform using amazon alexas smart assistant with your voice or on the app on your phone etc is what gives you the home automation control when you have the corresponding smart device paired and connected to your Alexa device and account. With Alexa, the app has to ‘learn’ about the device you’re connecting (don’t worry this is just another way of basically downloading a driver so it will work!!!)

What Can Alexa Do?

This is where alexa comes in to it’s own, you basically “wake’ it up by saying “Alexa” then give here an instruction (remember if you want it to control some smart home tech you’ve got to enable it first in Devices)

• “Alexa, turn on/off the kitchen lights.”
• “Alexa, dim lights to 40%.”
• “Alexa, set the temperature to 73.”
• “Alexa, lock my front door.”
• “Alexa, show me the [camera room location].” (This only works on Echo Show and Fire devices.)
• “Alexa, turn on/off the [plug name].”

You can set up room groups so they all perform a linked action on request, e.g you could say “Alexa, set the front room for seduction!” so the lights dim, room temp is 75 and Barry White is playing on the device, i’m sure you get where i’m coming from!!

Features

• Motorised screen automatically rotates to track you pretty cool if you’ve got cctv connected that gets triggered you don’t have to grab it to see who’s robbing your lawn mower!!
• Loud, crisp sound
• Built-in Zigbee hub for smart home device control
• Useful home security features

What We Love ❤️

• Easy to Operate: Amazon Alexa is a cloud-based voice service that is easy to use and can be operated by anyone, making it a convenient tool for both kids and adults
•  Control of Smart Home Devices: Alexa can seamlessly connect and control various smart home devices through voice commands, allowing users to manage their homes without lifting a finger.
•  Music and Entertainment: Alexa offers non-stop music and entertainment options, making it a great tool for playing your favorite songs, podcasts, or audiobooks
•  Timers and Alarms: Alexa makes setting and using timers and alarms tremendously easy, helping users stay organised and on schedule
•  Integration with Third-Party Devices: Alexa is compatible with a wide range of third-party smart home devices, allowing users to choose from a variety of options and customize their smart home setup

What We Hate 🤬

•  Privacy Concerns: One of the potential downsides of using Alexa is the privacy concerns associated with having a voice-activated device in your home, but you can say that about all 3 systems here!
•  Reliance on Technology: Using Alexa and other smart home devices may lead to increased reliance on technology, which can have negative effects on social interaction and personal well-being,
•  Music Quality: While Alexa offers a wide range of music options, some users have reported that the music quality is not as good as other smart home systems, such as Google Assistant
•  Limited Smart Display Options: Compared to Google Assistant, Alexa has a more limited range of smart display options, which may be a drawback for users who want to view security camera feeds or other visual information

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

Just because you can control 100’s of devices with it and it can cut to cctv images with the show.

Google Nest £219.99

And last but not least, Googles answer to the other 3, again you have adecent choice of device to be the central hub of your smart home with the Nest Hub max ( as shown above) being the flag ship. This also can control a whole host of device, albeit not as many as the Alexa units, but I’d be surprised if you couldn’t find a compatible unit to control the light in your home gym for example.

Features

• Music. Music on the Google Nest Hub. …
• Video. Watching Youtube on the Google Nest Hub. …
• Photo Frame. Photo Frame is a non-stop slideshow of your favorite pics. …
• Smart Automations. This is where the Nest Hub gets interesting. …
• Google Shopping.
• integrated YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify:
• can be control with hand gestures

What We Love ❤️

• 
   Easy to use and set up The Nest Hub is user-friendly, and its setup process is quick and straightforward
•  Integrated streaming services: You can enjoy YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, and other streaming services on the Nest Hub, making it a versatile entertainment device.
•  Smart home control: The Hub can efficiently manage various smart home devices, allowing you to control lights, cameras, and more from a single interface
•  Sleep tracking capabilities: The second-generation Nest Hub offers sleep tracking, recording metrics such as sleep duration and respiratory rate. It can provide tips and recommendations based on your sleep habits
•  Affordable price: The Nest Hub is reasonably priced, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to enhance their smart home experience

What We Hate 🤬

•  No video calling: The Nest Hub lacks a camera, which means you can see the person you’re talking to during a video call, but they can’t see you, just seems mad this, why spend all the time designing a unit with a screen and then not put a camera in it?
•  Small display: The 7-inch display of the Nest Hub may feel inadequate, especially when compared to larger smart displays like the Nest Hub Max and we hate feeling inadequate when it comes to size!
•  Limited compatibility with Google Workplace: The Nest Hub does not offer full compatibility with Google Workplace, which can be a drawback for users who rely on this productivity suite. Which seems strange Amazon could do this.
•  Sleep sensing can be fickle: While the sleep tracking feature is a pro, some users have reported that it may not always provide accurate or consistent data.
•  Gestures can be unreliable: The Hub’s Quick Gestures feature, which allows you to control certain functions with hand movements, may not always work as expected and what’s more annoying than a cool feature that doesn’t work?

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Not my favourite by any means, smaller screens, no vid calls make this bottom of the pile for me.

Conclusion: My results for the 3 best smart home systems for 2023 are:

• How to Set Up a Smart Home on a Budget
• Private Internet Access Review
• How to use a VPN
• How To Use Chatgpt for Total Beginners
• Best Smart Thermostat Uk in 2024

The post The 3 Best Smart Home Systems For 2023 appeared first on toptech7.com.

We love smart tech, smart home, smart app but you need to know how to set up your smart home or they’re all just power draining boxes. If you haven’t decided which hub is right for you as yet, check my post on the top 3 plug and play devices here

You’re sat on the couch and the lightings all wrong the heatings too high, but that means you having to get off your arse and sort all this….no it doesn’t, you have smart tech right? but you have boxes off stuff and you can’t set it up.

Setting up a smart home can be a daunting task, but with a little planning, it can be a breeze. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you set up your smart home:

Pick Your Ecosystem:

Choose an ecosystem that suits your needs. The most popular ecosystems are Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Each ecosystem has its own set of devices and features, so choose one that works best for you. I would personally choose the one you like the features of, is in your budget or what will align with the majority of devices you might already have. Heres a list of the choices:

Amazon Alexa:

• Alexa is a virtual assistant developed by Amazon. It primarily functions through Amazon Echo and other compatible devices. Users can control smart home devices, ask questions, play music, set alarms, and more using voice commands. Alexa supports a wide range of third-party smart home products and integrates with various apps and services.

Google Assistant:

• Google Assistant is Google’s virtual assistant, available on Android devices and through the Google Home smart speaker. It offers voice-activated control over smart home devices, answers questions, provides weather updates, and more. Google Assistant is compatible with numerous smart home brands and can be integrated into various ecosystems.

Apple HomeKit:

• HomeKit is Apple’s smart home platform. It’s designed for iOS users and focuses on privacy and security. HomeKit allows users to control compatible smart devices using the Apple Home app and Siri voice commands. It offers end-to-end encryption for added security and works with a growing number of HomeKit-enabled accessories.

Samsung SmartThings:

• SmartThings is Samsung’s smart home ecosystem that connects and controls a variety of devices, including smart lights, thermostats, cameras, and more. Users can manage their devices through the SmartThings app and create automation routines to simplify daily tasks. It supports a wide range of third-party devices and can be controlled via voice commands.

IFTTT (If This Then That):

• IFTTT is not a smart home application on its own but a platform that allows users to create custom automation and integration between various apps and devices. Users can create “applets” (if-then statements) to connect different services and devices, enabling creative automation and control.

Hubitat Elevation:

• Hubitat Elevation is a home automation hub that provides local processing for smart devices, reducing reliance on cloud services. It’s suitable for tech-savvy users who want more control over their smart home. Hubitat supports a wide range of devices and allows for complex automation rules.

OpenHAB:

• OpenHAB is an open-source home automation platform designed for users who prefer to build and customize their smart home system. It supports various protocols and devices and offers extensive flexibility for creating custom automation and rules.

Tuya Smart:

• Tuya Smart is a platform used by many third-party smart home device manufacturers. It provides a unified app for controlling and managing a wide range of smart devices from different brands. Users can create schedules, scenes, and automation routines within the Tuya Smart app.

These applications and platforms vary in terms of compatibility, user interfaces, privacy features, and customisation options. The choice of which one to use depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the smart devices you have in your home.

You’ll Want a Hub:

A hub is a central device that connects all your smart home devices. It acts as a bridge between your devices and your smartphone or tablet. Some popular hubs are Samsung SmartThings, Wink Hub, and Amazon Echo Plus. It is possible to create a smart home with separate smart tech but you will more than likely have to download individual control apps for each device which can be a faff.

The Importance of Wi-Fi:

A strong Wi-Fi signal is essential for a smart home. Make sure your Wi-Fi router is up to date and in a central location. If you have a large home, consider getting a Wi-Fi extender. Check these high end ones from netgear here i have 3 blink cameras at home and one just wouldn’t keep a strong fix on the home network until i bought an extender.

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Smart Hubs?:

Decide which type of connection you want for your smart home devices. Bluetooth is best for devices that are close to each other, but in modern houses i wouldn’t recommend going this way, while Wi-Fi is best for devices that are farther apart. Smart hubs are best for connecting devices that use different types of connections. and usually the app that comes with the smart home can diagnoise any problems with your set up so it’s easy to find any problems if your tech is tits up!

Verify Smart-Home Support:

Before buying a smart home device, make sure it is compatible with your ecosystem and hub. Check the device’s website or packaging for compatibility information, also check the power needs of certain devices for example, if you want a smart thermometer, make sure you have the correct wiring for the one you’re buying, if you want a smart security light, have you got outside power or do you need a solar one?

How To Set Up Your Smart Home Devices:

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set up your smart home devices. Make sure to place them in good spots and pick names carefully.Most systems simply walk you through the set up procedure.

Grouping, Automation, and Routines:

Group your devices together to control them all at once. Automate your devices to perform certain actions at specific times. Create routines to perform multiple actions with a single command. Group all devices that are in one room to a single group, because as you devices grow it will be a royal pain in the arse searching through your phone to find the specific light you want to switch off.

What to Do When You Move or Change Routers:

When you move or change routers, you will need to reset your smart home devices and set them up again. With your new network credentials

A Word on Security:

Make sure to secure your smart home devices with strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Keep your devices up to date with the latest firmware updates. Check my post on securing smart home tech here

Troubleshooting Tips:

If you encounter any issues with your smart home devices, try resetting, checking the trouble shooting guide on your smart home app or contacting customer support.

In conclusion, setting up a smart home requires a little planning and research, but it can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these steps, you can create a smart home that suits your needs and lifestyle.

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What is Smart Tech? A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the Future of Technology

In today’s rapidly advancing world, you’ve probably heard the term “smart tech” thrown around quite a bit. I have made the mistake in my blog of assuming everyone who reads his knows exactly what i’m talking about!!! I spoke to my father in law about the geofence in my smart thermostat and he looked at me like i’d just fallen out the sky!! From smart TVs to smart thermostats, it seems like everything is getting a dose of intelligence. But if you’re scratching your head wondering what all the buzz is about, fear not! This beginner’s guide will walk you through the world of smart tech, breaking down the basics and helping you understand how it’s shaping our lives. For help on securing your smart home, check my post on smart home security here

Understanding the Basics

At its core, smart tech refers to devices, appliances, and systems that utilize cutting-edge technology to make our lives more convenient, efficient, and connected. These devices are designed to gather and analyze data, often via sensors and internet connectivity, to automate tasks, provide insights, and improve user experiences. Most new gadgets today employ some kind of smart tech even in it’s most basic form. Got an iphone? siri is smart tech! got a window laptop? Bing is smart tech. This is not tech to fear, if you can learn the basics you can be it’s master!! Also for the eco-friemdly of you, check out my post on the 7 best eco-friendly gadgets in 2023 here

Key Features of Smart Tech

1. Connectivity: One of the defining features of smart tech is its ability to connect to the internet and communicate with other devices. This connectivity allows devices to send and receive information, enabling them to be controlled remotely.
2. Sensors: Smart devices are equipped with various sensors that can detect changes in their environment. These sensors gather data, such as temperature, light, motion, and more, which the device uses to make informed decisions.
3. Automation: Smart tech is all about automation. Devices can be programmed to perform certain tasks without manual intervention. For instance, a smart thermostat can learn your preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, saving energy and optimizing comfort. Smart Automation is built to benefit you by saving you time and prevent you from forgetting things, eg turning off the heating or lights.
4. Data Analysis: The data collected by smart devices is often processed and analyzed to provide insights or improve functionality. For example, fitness trackers analyze your physical activity to offer personalized health recommendations.

Common Examples of Smart Tech

1. Smart Home Devices: These include smart thermostats which know when you have left the house so it can either tunr down your heating or switch it off, then when you arrive inside a preset distance from your house (known as a geofence) will switch on your heating so you’re house is nice and warm when you get back. smart lights that can be set to switch on and off when you’re on holiday, smart locks, and even smart appliances like refrigerators (some new ones even have webcams in them so you can look in the fridge when you’re in the supermarket to see if you’ve got any milk left!) and washing machines. They can be controlled remotely through smartphone apps or voice commands, and many can learn from your habits to optimize their performance.
2. Wearable Tech: Fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health monitors fall into this category. They track your physical activity, heart rate, sleep patterns, and more, helping you make healthier choices.
3. Voice Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home respond to voice commands to perform tasks, answer questions, and control other smart devices in your home. Think everything you can type into your laptop or phone to ask a question, you can just ask your smart assistant and it can tell you!!
4. Smart TVs: These televisions connect to the internet, allowing you to stream content from various platforms and access a range of apps. Check my buyers guide for uhd tv’s here
5. Smart Cars: Modern vehicles often come equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, GPS navigation, and connectivity features that enhance safety and convenience or even tell you if you have forget to lock your car and give you the option to lock it using the app.
6. Smart Secruity: Theres smart doorbells that can tell you through an app when some at your door or even walking up your drive and they give you the option to talk to your visitor, check my buyers guide for smart doorbells here

Benefits and Considerations

While smart tech offers numerous benefits, such as increased convenience and energy efficiency, there are also considerations to keep in mind. Privacy and security are important factors, as data collection and connectivity can expose vulnerabilities if not properly managed. It’s essential to choose reputable brands and devices with robust security features.

Do I Need It?

Smart tech is changing the way we interact with the world around us. From managing our homes to tracking our health, these intelligent devices are becoming an integral part of our daily lives. By understanding the basics and considering the benefits and potential challenges, you can make informed decisions about incorporating smart tech into your lifestyle. Embrace the future of technology and enjoy the convenience and connectivity it brings! As a tech writer and addict I’d say yes of course you do, would i be able to live my life without it? of course but is my life easier now i know how to control my tech ? 100% it is.

How Many Devices Connected?

You might want to considered upgrading your home network, and the one piece of tech that is super hot right now is Mesh Wifi By netgear. But what is it?

Read my post about it here

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