Here in Texas, we know that summer can sometimes be a double-edged sword.

While it’s the perfect time of year for outdoor fun, summer also delivers higher temperatures – and, naturally, increased energy bills.

At DB Media Solutions, our team of custom technology experts love working with local homeowners in Westlake and throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex to lower their energy consumption levels through smart home automation.

In this post, we explore three of the best energy-efficient smart home devices you should add to your house – just in time for this summer.

SEE ALSO: 5 Must-Have Smart Home Automation Technologies

Homeowners these days are installing smart automation systems into their residences and homebuyers want them already in place upon purchasing their new house.  This means an architect has to know the ins and outs of smart home control before getting started.  But with new technology and additions piling up, it can feel overwhelming.   We’ve listed out below how to get started with a smart home system, so that Fort Worth, TX architects won’t miss a beat in the ways of new automation technology.

Home Automation

A smart home system controls, essentially, whatever you need it to control.  Integrated technology allows you to remotely control any part of the home – lights, security, climate – you name it.  So for clients who want to make their lives easier and more comfortable, home automation is the key.  With the proper installation, they can adjust their motorized shades, lower the temperature, turn on their favorite music or movie, and set the alarm all from one access panel or smart device.

SEE ALSO: THE EASIEST WAY TO CONTROL YOUR SAVANT SMART HOME SYSTEM

Before and After

So does the primary installation happen during or after construction?  Like most aspects of construction, it truly depends on your clients.  The good news is if you plan accordingly beforehand and have a set idea of what elements and features they want, then you’ll know exactly what to put into place during the building process.  If your clients have a problem with visible wiring, then preplanning the design and layout of necessary wiring can help you avoid a blundered final product.  No need to open up walls again or carve out more construction time, when it can all be done right the first time with proper planning.

Who to Work With

The luxurious smart home technology of today has greater installation needs than the basics usually require.  This means a general electrician might not have the skill or knowledge for installing the tech effectively.  It’s beneficial to work with an automation contractor, who can help with the first steps of designing and wiring, all the way to the final project completion.  They’ll have expert knowledge on the custom technology and can work with you to make sure everyone is on the same page.  Working with an interior designer can also guarantee that the building and construction process is still aligned with what your client’s dream home is.

If you’re just now diving into the possibilities for smart home automation in your Fort Worth, Texas area property, you probably have questions. Fortunately, we have answers. Below, we’ve put together a list of the most common questions we’ve heard over the years in the automation business. Check out the questions and answers below, and definitely, don’t hesitate to call us at (817) 980-0347 if you want to learn more.

What is Smart Home Automation?

Smart home automation refers to the technology that upgrades “dumb” components of your home, such as the window shades or light bulbs, and connects them to a central system that can work automatically to keep your home safer, more comfortable, energy-efficient, etc. This system can control all of the technologies throughout your home, from high-end audio to your surveillance cameras.

What All Can I Automate in My Home?

You’d be surprised how many things in your home can benefit from automation. Realistically, there are too many to list, but here are some of the most popular options:

• Thermostats
• Window Shades and Blinds
• Door Locks
• Lighting Fixtures
• Audio and Video Equipment
• Pools and Water Features

Can I DIY My Own Smart Home?

There are DIY smart home automation solutions available that you can install on your property. If you’re particularly tech-savvy and looking for a budget-friendly system, this is probably the right choice for you. Keep in mind that you’ll be handling all aspects of building and setting up the system, and while DIY brands do try to make the process easy, we’ve had many homeowners call us up to do a system installation after they realized how complex everything was. There are also a lot of limitations to DIY systems—you won’t be able to take advantage of the full features and possibilities available with a professional installation.

SEE ALSO: How to Get Started with Smart Home Technology