| Imagine turning on your home air conditioning | | | | Security: This is frequently one of the initial areas |
| system from your office before you leave so the | | | | of home automation for the control and peace of |
| house will be cool upon your arrival. Think about | | | | mind it offers. The system can be armed or |
| the convenience of setting the security alarm and | | | | disarmed and doors can be locked or unlocked |
| turning off all of the house lights from your bed | | | | from remote locations to enable access if needed. |
| upon retiring for the night. Consider opening and | | | | Alarms will automatically notify authorities in case |
| closing drapes and turning lights off and on in your | | | | of intrusion or fire. |
| home while you're away on vacation so that it | | | | Climate control: This is a real money-saver for |
| appears as if the home is occupied. Thanks to the | | | | energy costs going beyond the capabilities of |
| explosive growth in home automation technology | | | | programmable thermostats. It allows for complete |
| and increasing demand, what was available only to | | | | control at any time from remote locations to turn |
| the very rich until recently, is now within reach for | | | | systems on or off and control the temperature in |
| most any budget. | | | | different areas of the home. |
| Home automation is nothing new with most | | | | Lighting: Remote lighting control is useful for |
| enjoying the convenience of such automation | | | | security and safety and can be automated for |
| systems as garage door openers and automated | | | | both indoor and outdoor lighting. |
| thermostats. What is new with today's "smart | | | | Home automation is a great investment to |
| homes" is that entire systems can be automated | | | | consider when building or remodeling a home, |
| with simple touch panels and controlled from | | | | adding convenience and home value. You can |
| anywhere in the world with internet access or | | | | choose to start with a basic automation system |
| iPhone. Some of the most popular home | | | | and work up to more comprehensive automation |
| automation systems include: | | | | as the budget allows. It puts you in control. |