Defining Home Automation

Is Home Automation Expensive?

It used to be but in the last few years prices have fallen dramatically and almost everybody can afford some level of automation. A typical HAI home system will run anywhere from $5 to $8 a square foot depending on how elaborate your system is. High end systems with cameras, distributed audio zone amplification, and touch screen control will run $4 to $5 a square foot. In comparison with other home systems like roofing, flooring, and windows, home automation gives you to biggest bang for the buck because these are systems you will use every day and they can save you money in the long run.

Is Home Automation Hard to Understand and Program?

Some systems are more complex than others. Some systems are designed for the tech head in your family. Still some others are very user friendly and are a joy to operate. When choosing automation systems make sure you are comfortable with how it operates and not the installer. Purchasing a bunch of bells and whistles that are not user friendly doesn’t make much sense. Also if there ever is an issue, how will the installer respond and what are the warranties. Will you always have to reprogram when the power goes out and can you do that yourself. The good systems have built in memory so they never loose their settings.

How Do I Know What to Look For?

Lvhsystems highly recommends you do your homework. This site is dedicated to helping the average consumer understand how automation works. Look around this site and follow the links to the “digital partners” pages and read up on each of the systems and ask questions of your builder and low voltage contractor. Ask to see other projects they have done and get in touch with the homeowner of the project. Everyone likes to talk about themselves and their home. In the “contact us” portion of this site you can ask us questions as well. We are here to make sure you are getting your expectations met.

Can I Update My System as New Technology is Available?

You bet! As long as your home was wired correctly you can always upgrade, add to, or change out systems. Your structured wiring is the biggest component to home automation. When building your home make sure to “Future Proof” your home with extra runs of CAT5e and even fiber optic cabling. It may not be in use right now but it certainly will be in the near future. Your ability to take advantage of technology is directly related to how your home was wired. Wire is relatively cheap so make sure you include advanced wiring packages during construction.

Are These Systems Reliable?

Yes! Most of today’s systems were originally designed for commercial applications where they are mission critical to the operation of the space. Now that they have proven themselves in that arena they are making there way into the residential market. Most reliable is a hard wired system meaning that all parts and controllers are wired directly to the main controller. Wireless has come a long way as well. Companies are producing components that connect wirelessly and can be driven by IR (Infra Red) or RF (Radio Frequency) controllers. Wireless works well with retrofit projects.