7 Technologies that Are Changing Homes

Brett Clawson

Technology has come a long way in just a few years. You likely have some rather advanced technology already at your fingertips such as a smartphone or tablet. The goal of many of these devices is to make lives easier. To help achieve this goal, home technologies are on the rise. From smart thermostats to personal assistants (and much more), technology is changing homes all across the country and around the world.

Smart Thermostats

Your thermostat is the control center for your HVAC. It used to be that you would have to manually adjust the knob every time you wanted to raise or lower the temperature. Programmable thermostats have replaced older styles, enabling homeowners the power to set heating and cooling schedules. Smart thermostats take that power one step further by enabling you to alter the temperature of your home from anywhere.

Lighting Control

You no longer need to get up from your seat to turn the lights on or off. With the right set-up in your home, you can control your lights from your smartphone, automated system, or touchscreen panel. You can even program your lights to turn on or off during certain times of the day, which can be incredibly helpful when you’re away on vacation. By controlling your lights while you’re away, you can make it appear as though someone’s home, even when you’re not.

Smart Toilets

Smart toilets have many amazing features. Some have automated flushing or deodorizing systems. Others have heated seats, which are particularly beneficial in the cold winter months. There are even toilets in Japan that perform a urinalysis, letting you know if you have diabetes, are at risk for diabetes, or pregnant. By alerting you to issues you might not know about, you can more quickly get the medical care you need to maintain your health.

Personal Assistants

Personal assistants like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home can do all sorts of useful things. They can let you know that packages have arrived. You can use the assistant to make a list, order something, or simply play some music. You can also use your assistant as a hub to control all of your other home technology. Speaking to your assistant, you can turn on lights, arm your alarm system, and so much more.

Solar Panels

More and more homeowners are looking for ways to go green or reduce their energy bills. One way to do that is by installing solar panels. The panels collect sunlight (which is 100% clean, renewable, and free) and convert it into energy that can then be used to power your home. If you’re thinking about switching to an alternative energy source, a solar quote can give you an idea of how much the project will cost.

Cleaning Robots

Cleaning robots like Roomba, iRobot, and Neato have been around for a while now. These little autonomous robots go around your home, cleaning it for you. While these robots can’t clean crayon off the walls or scrub bathroom tile, they are very helpful for keeping up with little daily messes like dust, dirt, pet hair, and the like. Some companies are working on other types of robots that can do more than just vacuum. While they aren’t available yet, it won’t be long before we have robots that can pick up items or help tidy other messes.

Smart Appliances

You can find many home appliances these days with touchscreens and sensors. Some are even internet ready and have apps associated with them that allow you to control them from your phone.

Some home appliances have gotten even smarter. You can use your phone to look inside your refrigerator to see exactly what you have when you’re at the store. Or, you can warm up your oven before you get home so that it’s ready to start cooking as soon as you walk through the door.

Numerous technological developments have changed the lives of individuals all around the globe. Technology for homes is helping to make life easier, increasing home values, and saving homeowners money.