4 Smart Home Devices That Keep Working While Youre On Vacation

December 2nd, 2024

A lot can happen to your home in , while you’re away.  Burglary is an obvious problem, but you can also face issues like leaky toilets, thieves who steal packages that arrive while you’re away, doors left ajar that let in rain and pest animals, and visitors who need to get something from your home while you’re away but who don’t have a key to get in.  For a long time the only way to solve problems like these were to end your vacation early, but these days smart devices can monitor and fix your home wherever you are.

Smart Lights

For a long-time homeowners have used timers on table and floor lamps to turn lights on and off at certain hours of the day.  These lights made the home look occupied even when everyone was away and could help deter burglars.  However, burglars are very aware of light timers and can figure out you’re using them by watching a home when the timers go off.  That’s why today you can get smart plugs and timers that randomize when they turn on and off, and many brands also let you change the light schedule remotely through a smartphone app.

Security Cameras

Surveillance cameras are a very obvious addition to any security system.  You have to set them high up in corners to get a good view, and so they’re easy to spot.  This is by design:  when burglars and other potential criminals see a surveillance system, they’re much more likely to find another home in , to target.  Modern cameras also transmit wireless signals using internet protocol, and that means they can use your Wi-Fi network and send live feeds directly to your phone using a secure app.

Smart Thermostats

One of the most common smart upgrades in homes today is the smart thermostat.  These devices work with your home’s existing HVAC system and come with a set of motion and heat detectors that can see where people are in the house and what temperature they’re experiencing compared to the temperature they set.  Smart thermostats come with a setting that automatically puts the system into a high-efficiency mode while everyone is away and will reduce your utility bills.

Smart Security

Modern security systems can come completely integrated with smart home devices and give you smartphone apps that let you control your house from any location.  For instance, you can unlock an electronic lock with a tap on your phone, and the security system can alert your phone when the smoke alarm goes off or stops working for some reason.  Because of this, a security system can be the backbone of a whole smart-home renovation.

You’re supposed to relax and live in the moment when you’re on vacation, but many people can’t help but worry about what they leave behind.  And they have reason to worry thanks to burglars, leaks, thieves, and other hazards they can’t control while they’re away.  So keep your peace of mind and go on your vacation by upgrading your , with a comprehensive (and smart) security system.