If you’re tech-savvy, you’ve definitely considered personally installing smart devices into your home’s ecosystem to simplify, secure, or improve your quality of life. But doing it yourself can lead to unexpected problems, and your smart home won’t be as efficient. That’s why using a professionally installed, fully integrated smart home system is vastly superior to purchasing a number of retail smart devices. And trust us, the difference is quite noticeable, which is why we put together some key issues to watch out for if you are thinking about doing it yourself and ultimately why it’s a bad idea.
1. Ease of Use
There are numerous devices and apps that make up an automated house. It organizes a number of gadgets into a cohesive whole. Making a smart home user-friendly is a difficult undertaking due to the nature of its complex system and software. The typical result of a DIY hobbyist’s work is a collection of interfaces, such as controllers for entertainment systems and light switches, that are confusing to everyone but them. This encounter can frustrate the rest of the family.
Professional installers’ work gives you a completely different experience. They are user interface designers, not average techies. They are aware that technology simply serves as a tool for home automation. They employ their technological know-how, experience, and training to create a smart house that truly feels smart and provides the owner with a system that is so user-friendly and manageable that anyone can use it.
2. Devices Don’t Always Work Together
One of the major problems individuals run into when trying to DIY a smart home is not finding mutually compatible devices. This leads DIYers to risk wasting money on equipment that simply doesn’t connect. This can become more of a problem with the more sophistication you want in your system.
It is still feasible to add gadgets and integrate them one at a time if you want to have a fully functional smart home. However, just go to a professional rather than trying to do it yourself and buying unsuitable products. You don’t want to end up with too many apps and remote controls.
3. Installation Is Too Complex
How large and intricate is your home? You’ll probably have difficulties with wireless devices in your home and require professional expertise with wiring if it’s a big house or contains complicated building elements, such as interior stone, mirror walls, or floor heating.
You should make a list of the smart devices you want to install and the items you want to control remotely, including any doors, windows, garage doors, sensors, lighting, hot tubs, TVs, theater rooms, outdoor gates, and security systems. Smart homes do not just plug in and run. A well-designed system can scale better than a haphazard collection of smart devices. After talking with you about your wish list, a professional can design a unique solution for your home and lifestyle using all the gadgets and solutions integrated into one simple-to-use system.
4. Privacy & Security
One reason you may want a smart home is to increase security. But some DIY smart home gadgets might not be as secure as they appear. A smart home professional can set up your network to be secure and ensure that all of your smart home’s components are current and configured to minimize security gaps so you can experience the amazing advantages of a truly smart home. A professional will also ensure that the right devices and equipment are in use while ensuring that your linked devices are secure from hacking or other vulnerabilities.
5. Wi-Fi Demands & Network Failures
Robust network planning is a topic that few people are familiar with. Do you recognize your Wi-Fi from your Bluetooth or your Zigbee from your Z-Wave? The quality of your network will determine how effective your system is, and having an expert on board should help guarantee dependable connectivity for all devices. After all, adding more devices will only result in lagging and buffering if a strong network infrastructure isn't already in place. Hire someone who can make sure everything goes without a hitch.
Who You Gonna Call?
You want a rock-solid, reliable system that’s easy to use and access from anywhere, no matter the size of your home — so go to a professional! Like one at Refined Systems. We can customize your specifications instead of you just trying to shoehorn store-bought products into fitting your lifestyle. Hiring a pro means you’ll get all the right products for your needs, in addition to installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and remote assistance.
A professional installation makes it easy for you to relax and enjoy your home. So save yourself the stress and get a smart home consultation today! And if you find yourself with pre-consultation questions, just give us a call.