Once you’ve decided that you want home automation, it’s important to decide who’s going to do the dirty work. As the technology advances, it can be tempting to opt for a plug-and-play home automation system, but there are a few things to consider before you go that route.

1.    What Are Your Home Automation Needs?

Are you looking for whole-home audio and automated blinds? Or are you looking for something

simple? If you want more advanced home automation, you should probably trust a professional home automation installation company. They will be able to install all of the technology you need. This includes working with your home’s electrical system (doing this on your own can lead to shocking results). If you can’t decide how much automation you want, make a list of all the things you do in the morning to get ready for work and in the evening when you come home. Then, research the things you do and see if there is an automation option. You will be pleasantly surprised at how many things in your daily life you can automate. If you choose to have someone install the automation for you, this list will be a great starting point for them as well.

2.    How Much Time Do You Have on Your Hands?

We know this is a tough question, but if you don’t have the time to really commit to installing your own home automation system, it is wise to trust a team of home automation experts. A half-finished home automation system won’t do anyone much good. On the other hand, a professional install team will finish the project completely and on schedule! Another time factor to consider is the amount of research you will have to do for each home automation product. Take lights, for example. If you don’t know which smart lightbulb is the best, you will have to devout hours of research time just to pick the option that is best for your needs. With a home automation expert, they will already know the best options on the market and can give you several different options to choose from, without you having to research anything!

3.    Can Your Home Network Handle It?

One thing many homeowners overlook is the load their home automation system will have on their network. If you aren’t sure about optimizing your Wi-Fi network, you could be facing very slow speeds on a newly burdened network. Home automation companies will help you optimize your system to make sure you can still surf the net with top speeds.

4.    Will You Know How to Service Your System?

Unfortunately, technology fails, and systems go out of date. A home automation system is only good if the system is up to date. There are a lot of moving pieces in a home automation system, and each piece will need the latest software system installed in order to operate at its peak performance. If you’re a tech wizard, you’ll be able to fix or update it yourself. Even if you install the system yourself, a home automation company can help service it – but it will take longer to fix because they will need to familiarize themselves with your system. However, if they install the system, it will be much easier for them to diagnose and fix the issue.

5.    Can You Design Your Own System?

You certainly can design your own system; however, you have to think about how much do you know about home automation right now, and how much do you want to learn? If you want to just sit back and relax while a company installs all of your devices, then letting a professional create your optimal home automation system is your best route. If you want to create your own system, it will definitely take you longer to complete the job, and you risk missing out on all the best home automation can offer you.

If your system is simple, you will likely be okay installing your own home automation system. However, if your needs are more complicated, we recommend connecting with an expert. Contact us today to learn more!