Home automation has gained traction in the U.S. that the market value of this sector would reach $21 billion by 2020. For this year, the ongoing prevalence of smart homes in the country will help in achieving that figure.
Those interested to invest in an automated home should expect to spend between $398 and $1,814. The average amount costs slight above $1,000, but it may cost up to $3,500 or more depending on the technology.
Factors such as your location will affect the actual price. If you live in Utah, some distributors, such as eliteaudiovideohomes.com, offer home automation in Bluffdale that may be cheaper than in Salt Lake City and other bigger cities.
Benefits and Disadvantages
Before you consider installing a smart home system, it is important to know the pros and cons. Like any other technology, automation has its own benefits and drawbacks. Some of the advantages include a lower insurance rate.
There are insurers that provide homeowners with discounts if they have an automated system. Smart homes are also known to reduce operational costs by 30% compared with traditional houses. Energy-efficiency serves as one reason for the lower expenses.
For instance, An HVAC system connected to a smart home system helps in controlling room temperature. On the other hand, the single biggest disadvantage of smart homes involves vulnerability to cyberattacks.
Be sure to update your log-in information regularly and perform the necessary checks once in a while. If it falls into the wrong hands, hackers can gain access to your home or lock you out of your own home.
Buying Smart Devices
If you are not keen on splurging a large amount yet, you could start with a modern switch that controls lighting. Some products only cost at least $80, and you could then use a smartphone app to control the settings.
Take note that you would have to invest in a good brand since a replacement for a modern light switch might cost around $40. Those who are more concerned about security could also spend below $100 for an automated system.
A complete system costs the same price that covers more than just lighting and security, although it comes as a subscription that is payable every year.
Future of Automation
The presence of smart devices in our homes will be a precursor to what lies ahead for home automation. It may not take long before life-sized robots become a common sight, with the introduction of artificial technology such as Amazon Echo and Alexa.
But it could be the buzzing Roomba that started it all. The vacuum robot somehow helped the consumer robotics industry to record around $6.4 billion of revenues in 2018. In the next four years, that amount would likely increase to almost $23 billion.
A smart home makes daily life easier, but it does not come without risks. When in doubt, consult a product or service provider about the best system for your house. How much are you willing to spend on an automation system?
