Home Automation (Level 1)

Home Automation – Level 1 (Main Lights)

When starting your home automation projects, you should first plan the amount of devices you want to automate, where you want to control these devices from, the range of your wireless network, and what devices to purchase to meet your automation needs.

You should ask yourself these questions at the start of the project to get a full idea of your automation goals. Once you finish these major steps, upgrading other devices will be simple since your automation network is ready for expansion.

How Many Devices do you want to Automate?

Begin by figuring out which devices you want to control. Some examples are lights, cameras, doors, curtains, garage doors, and outlets.

For your first introduction to automation devices, you want to select devices you interact with often.

Home Automation (Level 1)
If starting for your first time, we recommend selecting your bedroom lights and your front door lights.

Where / How do you want to control these devices?

Now that you have an idea of what you want to automate, you must next determine how you want to control them.

Examples of control methods are voice-controlled, phone, GPS, time setting, etc. To do this, you want to locate the device that will control these smart devices AND the location they will be placed.

You want to select voice-controlled hardware in key locations that can hear your commands.

Home Automation (Level 1)
If starting for your first time, we recommend selecting the voice-recognition platform you prefer and placing it in your main bedroom.

Recommended platforms are Alexa and Google Home.
Other examples are Alexa, Google Home, Wink, Hue, etc.

Does your Home WiFi network reach your devices?

This next step is the most important in ensuring that your smart devices have good operation.

At this point, you will have an idea of where all the devices will be located. You want to check the WiFi signal at the location of your devices.

Confirm you have at-least two (2) bars of WiFi and does not drop lower when people are around the area.

Do this by using your smart device and verifying your WiFi strength is sufficient at all locations.

Home Automation (Level 1)
For larger homes, your WiFi coverage can be weaker at the fronts and backs of the home.  Make sure you have good coverage at the device locations – use of a WiFi Extender is a good option if WiFi signal strength is weak.

What Devices do I need to buy?

Now you have a good idea for your home automation plans! You are ready to look at which devices you want to install. You want to target devices that will maximize your automation solution at minimal price.

Home Automation (Level 1)
Lights are the best place to start for home automation.  
There are two types of Smart lights to install (Bulbs or Switches).  
See our Products Page for a variety of options.

Smart Light Bulbs

These can replace your existing light bulb and be ready to communicate with your Smart Hub.

These are easy to install, but will be costly when you need to replace the bulbs.

Smart Switches

Smart switches can replace your existing light switch but has compatibility requirements will need professional electrician work for installation.

Smart Switches are much better methods for light automation in the long run but have higher up-front costs.