10 Smart Home Tips That Will Change Your Life

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1. Decide what you want from a smart home setup.

Think about whether you want a fully functioning smart home or just some convenient automation and remote control capability. If you don't want to fully automate your house, you won't have to buy a smart hub or any of the extra bells and whistles, so it will save you some money down the road.

2. Sniff out any dead spots.

Before you start setting up your smart home, you'll want to locate any dead spots. You can do this easily by simply downloading a Wi-Fi analysis app, which will give you the inside scoop.

3. Keep it simple.

Your automation setup should be simple and easy to use. The more complicated it is, the more opportunity there is for something to go wrong. If you want a motion-activated light in your closet, go for a simple motion-activated bulb instead of installing a motion sensor.

4. Watch that battery usage.

Wherever possible, connect your devices to a permanent power source so you don't have to add them to that ever-growing list of things you need to charge at the end of the day.

5. Keep a list of your passwords. It'll come in handy.

Imagine forgetting your password and not being able to turn on the lights. Not ideal!

6. Make sure your security cameras are rated for performance in cold weather.

Cold weather may cause your cameras to malfunction. If you live in a place where winter happens sometimes, you'll want to make sure those cameras are weatherproof. Package thieves don't rest, even in the wintertime.

7. Smart thermostats are the way to go.

The average household spends half their energy bill on heating and cooling, so this little guy can save you a nice chunk of change.

8. Be sure to check for rebates with your power company too.

Power companies in many states offer a small rebate when you buy a smart thermostat. You can use all that money you save to buy more gadgets.

9. Ceiling fans require special smart switches.

Installing a standard dimmer might seem like an easy solution. Don't do it! Specially made fan-speed controllers can be bought at your local hardware store.

10. Set up a super-cool mailbox motion sensor.

It'll send a text to your phone so you'll know exactly when that package was delivered. Plus, you can confirm if your nosy neighbor Iris has been going through your mail again. Get out of here, Iris!

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Images via Getty.