Spring is here and Summer is right around the corner. That means DIY projects are in full effect! Here’s a helpful list of some smart upgrades to simple but important things in your home. The “smart” functionality of these devices can provide both peace of mind, convenience and possibly save you some money too!
Nest Protect
The second-generation Nest Protect has arrived and it’s noticeably sleeker and smarter than its predecessor. It features slimmer profile than its predecessor, a new in-app “silence” button that allows you to turn off smoke and CO alarms remotely and integration with the Nest Learning Thermostat , Nest Cam and IFTTT. This detector is the best connected one we’ve seen if you’re willing to ditch the old white puck.
August Smart Lock
Smart locks are a fickle category. Because they’re securing your front door, you want something durable and reliable that will actually make your life easier. But some models are hard to install, others have confusing apps or hit-or-miss performance. The next-gen August Smart Lock has none of that nonsense. It looks good, is reliable, has an easy-to-use app for your mobile device and this version works with Nest, Logitech Harmony remote, and Siri.
BeOn Light Bulbs
BeOn’s bulbs feature an intriguing mix of security-minded features not found with other smart bulbs. They’ll replay your typical lighting patterns when you’re away from home, turn on automatically when someone rings the doorbell and continue to work when the power goes out. A modular, upgradeable design could bring even more features down the line.
Amazon Echo Dot
The second-gen, mini-sized Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker is just as smart as the first, costs nearly half as much, and is better at hearing you! It’s a hands-free, voice-controlled device that uses Alexa to play music, control smart home devices, read the news, set alarms, play audio-books, and more. It’s also the only Echo product you can connect to an existing audio setup.
Ecobee3 Thermostat
This thing is really “smart.” It intuitively understands when to turn on your heating or cooling based on your home’s unique energy profile, the weather outside, and thousands of other data points to make sure you’re comfortable at all times. It knows you’re a Vermont who likes to spend a lot of time outdoors and senses whether anyone is home and which rooms are occupied, delivering comfort when you’re at home and saving you energy (read: money) when you’re not.
