How to Automate Your Backyard

How to automate your backyard

If you have a smart home, you may be interested in enhancing your smart features all the way to your yard. Having a smart backyard is a wonderful idea for those looking to truly enhance their quality of life. Today on the blog, Specialized AV, the best whole home automation company, shares how to automate your backyard.

How to Automate Your Sacramento Backyard

First, let’s discuss how to automate your yard. Wireless speakers to heating and cooling systems are examples of innovative home technology and automation. Additionally, you may improve your outdoor living areas with technologies that support lighting, security, entertainment, landscaping, and irrigation. Also, you can easily convert your garden into a practical and comfortable retreat by adopting intelligent outdoor technology. Below, our whole home automation Sacramento team shares ways to automate your backyard.

Automatic Outdoor Lighting

Next, smart lighting is a cutting-edge solution to illuminate your patio. Thus, smart plugs and outlets allow you to link your phone or tablet to a light fixture through Wi-Fi and turn it on or off from anywhere. Additionally, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled smart light bulbs perform similarly to contemporary outdoor lighting. To make things even simpler, connect your lighting to your to your smart home system so that you can provide verbal orders. Importantly, our whole home automation Roseville team says this is one of our most popular features.

Also, patio lighting is attractive and functional, and smart technology makes it even better. Additionally, our whole home automation company near me explains that dimmer lamps may be used to create ambiance on your deck, or you can invest in automatic solar lighting for a more environmentally friendly solution. A motion-activated front porch light saves energy by turning on only when someone approaches your door and giving much-needed illumination as you walk inside.

Security

When it comes to home security, smart technology has you covered. As follows, outdoor equipment should be weatherproof and securely fastened to the home to guarantee it remains in place in all weather situations. Other choices are available on the market. For example, our security system installation Roseville experts share that comprehensive systems that include multiple cameras to cover all of your home’s entry points or intelligent locks.

Monitoring applications connect to your cameras and let you monitor recordings from different places in real-time, review stored footage, set timers, and receive alerts when someone approaches the door. Remote control locks with passcodes replace keys for even more security, offering you a more private method to access your property and allowing you to let guests in while you’re gone.

Entertainment Systems

Entertaining is a breeze when you have a smart home setup in your garden. Smart speakers with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi allow you to connect your phone and stream music directly from your device. You may also use speakers disguised as natural objects such as pebbles to keep your garden’s organic flow.

Additionally, a theater system is another enjoyable way to employ innovative technology for outdoor enjoyment. Therefore, install a projector behind your porch awning, gazebo, or canopy and organize movie nights. For the ultimate big-screen experience, get a folding screen or throw a white sheet over the fence. So, complete your patio design with a few chairs and chaises for comfortable outdoor seating.

Lawn Care and Gardening Smarts

Cutting the grass may be an uphill task, especially if you have a large property. Thus, robotic lawnmowers enable hands-free, low-effort mowing, allowing you to spend more time relaxing in your yard.

Also, weather forecasting is an essential aspect of arranging outside activities. Gilmore Heating Air and Plumbing, HVAC Sacramento, shares that a solar-powered smart weather station monitors data such as humidity, temperature, and wind speed, keeping you informed at all times. Therefore, install it aboveground in an open place of your yard, such as on the deck railing.

Contact Specialized AV Today

Ready to automate your backyard? We’ve got you covered! Contact Specialized AV today for whole home automation services in the greater Sacramento area. 

Increase Home Value With Smart Features

Increase Home Value With Smart Features

How to Increase Your Home’s Value With Smart Features

There are no prerequisites for making your smart home, well, smart. Installing one or more smart gadgets in your house qualifies your home as a smart home. You have the ability to make your house as smart as you want it to be. Our Sacramento Audio and Video company share that there are several gadgets that may be added to improve your home’s value. 

1. Select Your Assistant

First,  select your helper. Google Home and Amazon Echo are the most popular voice-controlled assistants. These gadgets are related but not identical. The assistant will aid you in the operation of your other smart gadgets. “OK Google, turn on the lights” or “Alexa, play music” are examples of commands.

As follows, ensure that any additional gadgets you add to your smart home are compatible with your assistant. Additionally, search “whole home automation companies near me” for more. 

2. Install Smart Electrical Lighting

With smart lighting, you can come into your home and say “Alexa, I am home,” and then configure certain lights to turn on when you say that. Some of the choices are dimmable and multi-colored. Smart lighting may also be managed via a phone app, allowing you to control your house lights even when you are not there. If you’re away from home or on vacation but don’t want your house to seem vacant, this is an excellent security feature to have. The bridge enables you to operate numerous devices at the same time when you are away from home.

3. Install a Smart Thermostat

Our neighbors at Gilmore Heating Air and Plumbing, Sacramento HVAC, recommend installing a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat can help you save energy by measuring your consumption. This thermostat will help you save energy by recognizing trends in your house and adjusting the temperature depending on movement at specific times of day. You can check your daily and monthly energy history on your app, as well as where you may cut back to save energy and money. 

4. Get Smart Security Systems Installed

Smart cameras may be installed both inside and outside the home. Our security system installation Sacramento explains that these cameras connect to an app, allowing you to monitor what is going on inside or outside your house from anywhere you are. When motion is detected on the cameras, the app will tell you. If you decide to add cameras, make sure you’re on a secure network to keep your personal life secret.

5. Get a Smart Doorbell and Lock

The smart doorbell includes an in-built camera, allowing you to see who is at the door and speak with them without having to go to the door. These gadgets are simple to set up and affordable. You will be notified when motion is detected.

Additionally, smart locks are keypads that enable you to lock or unlock your door without the use of a physical key. Thus, there is an app that, like other smart gadgets, allows you to operate the function from your phone. Furthermore, if you are someone who frequently forgets their keys, has difficulty locating them, smart locks are a terrific convenience and safety advantage.

If you’re ready to take the next steps in whole home automation, contact Specialized Audio and Video today!

Myths About Security Systems

myths about security systems - sacramento

Common Myths About Security Systems

Security cameras are essential for many business owners and homeowners. They help keep burglars away, protect property, and give you peace of mind. So, what’s stopping you from protecting your property with security cameras? Sacramento audio and video experts share the most common myths about security systems.  

All Security Cameras Work The Same

This is the most widespread misconception concerning security cameras. While most CCTV cameras appear the same and include features such as 24-hour video capture, not all cameras have the same capability. In fact, we’ve moved away from these types of security cameras. Security camera systems are available in a variety of configurations, with some being more advanced than others. Some even include number plate tracking, POS transaction monitoring, and long-range night vision. Make certain you purchase the proper one for your requirements.

Wireless Security Cameras Do Not Require Wires

Wireless security cameras, unlike wireless speakers or headphones, are not entirely wireless. They still need wiring to connect to a power source. In this case, the phrase alludes to the camera’s lack of a need for cables to connect to the storage hub. Because wireless cameras connect through the internet, they mostly save data to the cloud. They must, however, rely on wires to connect to power outlets and hence cannot be considered totally wireless.

Security Cameras Record Everything

While this appears to be true, not every camera is capable of capturing a larger field of view. The reason for this is due to the lens. Different lenses provide varying degrees of reach and vision, limiting the camera’s capacity to photograph a specific object within the frame. So, the next time you see a camera in a structure, keep in mind that it isn’t always necessary for it to record everything in view. This is why, during installation, selecting the proper placements is critical for covering essential sections in your location, which takes us to our next myth.

Selecting Security System Locations Is A Piece of Cake

Choosing the best location for installation is complex and time-consuming. Placing cameras in unsuitable locations might reduce their versatility and efficacy even further. You must also examine a number of other aspects. For example, during certain times of the day, you should be aware of sunlight flares obstructing the camera. Alternatively, keep in mind items that may obstruct your camera’s field of vision, such as tree branches. For these reasons, it is always best to have them installed by a professional home security company. Specialized Audio and Video are happy to provide you with home security installations services in Sacramento.

Security Systems Are Expensive

Ask any Sacramento AV company, and they will tell you otherwise. Aside from those with cutting-edge surveillance technology, there are various low-cost options on the market today that provide robust security without breaking the budget. With a little more research or the help of a professional, you may find amazing solutions or even a whole security camera system that fits within your budget. Our friends at Tureks Plumbing Services, a home remodeling company, adds that most homeowners will invest in a security system because it means their loved ones and property are safer.

Contact Sacramento AV

Now that we’ve debunked several security camera myths make sure you think about everything before purchasing security cameras for your property. Specialized AV is always available to assist with the installation of professional security cameras in the Greater Sacramento area. 

 

Are Home Security Systems Worth It

Are security systems worth it - Sacramento CA

Are Home Security Systems Worth It

A home security system is an investment, and like with any investment, it is critical to assess the expected return. While calculating the upfront and monthly costs of a security system and alarm monitoring is simple, you can’t put a price on safety and sound of mind. That may not be enough to convince you to hire a professional for security system installation. Read the article below to find out if home security systems are worth it.

What Do Home Security Systems Do?

Security systems may do more than just discourage thieves. No matter where you are, home security systems can make you feel like you’re connected to your house. They’re great for notifying you when doors are opened and closed. You may also be able to take advantage of additional, hidden benefits, such as reductions on homeowners or renters insurance.

Home Security Equipment

When determining the initial investment needed to add a security system to your Sacramento home, the average cost might range from $250 to more than $1,000. This all depends on the system, equipment, and installation that you select. Our team has years of experience in installing security systems in Sacramento, CA.

The good news is that they are one-time expenses, and you will most likely own the equipment. There are monthly fees to consider once your system is set up and running. You have a lot of control over the monthly cost of your security system because packages vary greatly depending on the services, features, and levels of monitoring you choose. Basic plans from trustworthy companies are available for as little as $20 a month.

However, depending on your demands and budget, more expensive services with features like as live, round-the-clock monitoring, or frequent security patrols might cost several hundred dollars or more each month.

Are Home Security Systems Worth It?

To assess whether a security system is worthwhile for your family, consider what would make it worthwhile for you. There is no doubt that alarm systems prevent theft. Break-ins are discouraged by security systems. In fact, 60% of convicted burglars say they will target another home if they discover a security system in the one they are attempting to loot.

If your goal is to reduce loss due to burglary, it’s clear that security solutions make a difference. However, if you add smoke alarm, carbon monoxide, and remote home automation services, that can assist prevent loss of valuables while managing energy expenses. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial construction company, say you might wind up saving a lot more with the additional services given by monitoring businesses.

Protect Your Valuables

Consider any irreplaceable objects, such as family heirlooms, art, or other items with significant sentimental worth. These items are invaluable, and there will be no way to compensate for the loss. Our friends at LMS Garage Doors, a Sacramento garage door company, points out that a home security system can protect your valuables as well as your vehicles. In fact, it may cost you more to not have a security system. You will almost certainly have to invest in a security system to keep these goods safe. Depending on how accessible you want these goods to be, a security system may be preferable to store them somewhere other than your house.

Contact Specialized AV

So, are home security systems worth it? We’ll let you be the judge of that. If you need security system installation, audio and video services, or custom projects, contact Specialized AV. We serve the Greater Sacramento areas, and Roseville, Rocklin, Granite Bay, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, and more! Give us a call to schedule an estimate.