We all know that smart home electronics can make life easier as well as save money. But with all the products available, how do you choose which is the best investment. Read on for some useful tips.
1. Determine what your greatest need is. Are your heating and electrical bills going through the roof? Are summer or winter months particularly costly? Are your children frequently leaving the lights on and/or the water running after they leave the room? Is Grandma living with you? Are you concerned that she won’t turn on the light when she needs it
and risk falling? Is the crime rate in your area increasing? Smart home electronics can solve many of these problems.
2. Have an energy audit. Many utility companies provide audits that show you where your home is wasting energy. These can be eye opening: You’ll be surprised at how much heat can sink through those cracks.

3. Set your priorities. Once you have this information, you can begin reading about smart home electronics. From your list in step one, pick your three greatest needs.

4. Determine your budget. If you have several immediate priorities, would it be worth it to spend more for integrated smart home electronics. Integrated systems control several building systems, such as lighting, security and/or climate control. However, it is also important to consider that in the event of a system failure, you may lose all those capabilities whereas separate systems may continue independently.

5. Begin looking at products. Ask your friends what smart home electronics they have. Visit home improvement stores and home shows to find out what’s available. Read product and consumer reviews about particular products. Compare information on prices and reliability. Smart home electronics can be a major purchase, so you want to invest your
money wisely.

6. If two products have wildly different prices, find out why. Does one offer more “bells and whistles” than you need? Do both products include all the parts you need? Does the less expensive model have a reliable reputation? Check the warranty information.

7. Consider installation. The trend these days is to wireless smart home electronics. These are fairly easy to install but some expert help may be needed, depending on the circumstances. If you need professional installation, look for a contractor nearby who is very familiar with the product.

8. Consider ease of operation. Remember the old joke about not being able to program a VCR? Well, what good are smart home electronics if you don’t know how to use them? When you select a product, make sure the installation and instruction manuals are clear and easily understandable. If you don’t, you will have bought an expensive conversation
starter that won’t do you any good at all.

9. Purchase the products and have them installed. If you’re doing it yourself, be sure to follow all instructions to the letter.

10. Enjoy. By installing smart home electronics, you have gone along way to making yourlife more comfortable, convenient and safe. The money you saved will soon come back to you in lower bills.