One of the most important issues you need to determine before buying a home automation system is how the installation will be performed. Here are four things to consider that will help you find the best and easiest home automation installation systems for your needs.
1. Hardwired or Wireless
DIY wireless home automation systems are generally pretty easy to install and don’t require many, if any, tools. However, sometimes the DIY systems are basic and limit what features and options are available to you.
Hardwired systems, on the other hand, are higher quality and more responsive. It is best to hire a professional, unless you have the skills necessary to safely and effectively install a hardwired system yourself.
2. Assess Your Connection Needs
If you want to access, monitor and control your home automation equipment remotely, you will need a secure internet connection. Almost all of these systems have an accompanying mobile app that will require you to have an internet connection for it to function. However, if your internet goes out, so does your system. But many of today’s home automation and home security systems also come with a cellular battery backup.
3. Compatibility
Before buying any given home automation system, you should make sure it’s compatible with your existing equipment or with the home automation equipment you plan on buying. In addition, you will want to make sure the corresponding application is compatible as well.
4. Analyzing the Costs
Home automation systems are either DIY wireless or hardwired, which will generally require professional installation and adds to the costs. Therefore, weigh the pros and cons of each before you decide.
A basic DIY home automation system (which usually just plugs into your existing outlets) will start around 40 dollars and go up from there. But you will also need the hub and the corresponding equipment unless you buy a package deal. Wireless mesh systems such as Z-Wave range from about 300 to 600 dollars. Then you will need to factor in the cost of the activation fees, cloud automation, cloud storage, and equipment costs of your chosen options.
On the other hand, a hardwired system that requires professional installation could cost you approximately 75 to 85 dollars per hour or more for a contractor to install. However, a hardwired home automation installation is much more reliable than a wireless DIY system. With that being said, you will need to weigh your options, then decide which system is best for you and your particular situation and budget.
The Bottom Line
The first thing you might want to consider before making any final decision is the home automation installation process…is it a DIY wireless system or a hardwired system? This will then help you determine the overall costs and any other associated parts and equipment you might need.
