This week well take a look at some smart home security options. Connecting these security systems, cameras, etc. to your smart hub will allow you to monitor your home systems while youre away.
Security systems
Like thermostats that we looked at in last weeks post, security systems arent new technology but many manufacturers have upgraded their devices to interact with your smart home. The features offered by each system vary widely, but most include:
- Smartphone controls to allow you to turn the alarm on and off, add or remove components of the system and get push alerts when an alarm is tripped.
- Integration with other smart technology
- The ability to set rules for the system, such as unlocking doors when the smoke detector goes off
- Control connected devices like turning a smart thermostat on or off
- View live and/or recorded video through the app
Some key differences include:
- Monitoring - professionally for a fee or self-monitored
- Installation - professionally installed or do-it-yourself
PCmag.com has a helpful chart comparing systems, features and options. The best system for you will vary depending upon your priorities and on whether you want a DIY or a professional installation.
Cameras
If you want to monitor your home but arent looking for something as comprehensive as the systems above, consider smart cameras. Most can be viewed and controlled from your smartphone or other devices. PCmag.com has a great review of many of the options including a table that can help you quickly establish which cameras have the features you need.
Consider:
- Connectivity - Most connect by WiFi, though some can also use Bluetooth or connect through some of your other smart home devices.
- Notifications - All can send push notifications to your smartphone if they detect a problem; a few can also call or email you.
- Location - Will your camera will be installed inside or outside? Some can do either but many can only be installed inside, and some that are designed for outside use may not be as streamlined or easy to install inside.
- Storage - Do you want the video stored locally on the device itself or on the cloud? A few options can do either but most are only one or the other.
Cnet.com likes the Nest Cam Indoor for inside installation, and the Kuna Toucan for outside.
Smart Locks
At a basic level, smart locks do more or less what youd expect them to - they allow you to lock or unlock your door using your smartphone or other device - but there are some differences:
- Integration - Newer versions can often be integrated with other systems, so for example when you lock your door it automatically turns your thermostat down and turns off your smart light bulbs
- Automation - Some are touchless, so theyll unlock or lock when your phone is close enough
- Share-ability - Some locks require the app while others also allow you to use codes, Codes can be helpful if you have a guest or worker who needs temporary access your home. You can issue them a code and then delete it when its no longer needed. You can also monitor when the code was used.
- Add or replace - Most models are installed by replacing your existing deadbolt.
- Key option - Most options allow you to use a regular key as backup.
The WireCutter recommends the Kwikset Kevo Smart Lock 2nd Gen if youre replacing your deadbolt. If you would rather add a smart lock to your existing deadbolt, the August Smart Lock (also 2nd gen) is also highly rated. It installs over your existing deadbolt, and is compatible with most, though not all, deadbolts. Safety.com has done a nice job of summarizing your various smart lock options here.
Hopefully this helps you get started making your home safer and smarter. Next week well wrap the Smart Series up by exploring what you need to be aware of when buying or selling a home that already has smart technology.
Here are some additional tips and tricks from the folks at Military HomeSearch.
Here are some ways that smart technology can help seniors.
Photo from Protection1 Security Solutions:
http://p1.fetchcdn.net/residential/_img/smart-home/smart-home-security.png
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