Most homeowners consider and install a home security system (SS) - aka "alarm system" - but not so many ever think about a home automation system (HA) . What's the difference? Home security systems deal with perimeter security and detect intrusion to the premises and some also integrate smoke/fire detection while home automation systems allow the homeowner to define "actions" for various devices and systems in the home based on various "events" like time of day, day time, night time, home occupied, home unoccupied, and just about anything that you can think of.

Generally a SS and an HA system are two separate systems. However, these systems now are so tightly related that you can buy one system that does both functions for a very small addition in cost. The HA system can take advantage of the many SS sensors throughout the home thereby eliminating the need to add additional sensors and wires for the same purpose. The HA system is programmable and flexible. Note that while the system itself is relatively inexpensive, adding home automation switches and sensors can add up. Most people start off with a few features and functions and add to the system over time.

What can you do with a home automation system? The answer is almost anything that you can imagine. There are features you can enable that are useful and helpful and there are those that are just because you can.

Augment the security system...how about flashing all the exterior and/or interior lights before an intruder ever makes it close enough to attempt a break-in? Would you like a chime to sound when someone drives into your driveway, maybe turn on some additional lights?

Protect your home from a disaster...have you ever had a pipe break or water tank leak and go undetected for hours, days? This is quite an expensive ordeal. I don't wish this on anyone. The HA system can automatically turn off the main water supply every time you leave the house. Or, a water sensor can detect a leak and shut-down the main water system and/or dial the phone.

Have you ever gone to bed and left the garage door open? No more. Have you ever driven off to work for the day, thought you closed the garage only to have it reverse and remain open? No more. Did you forget to put the trash out...?

You can also remotely monitor your home through video on a secure website or your phone, control the system including the HVAC from a telephone, smart-phone, laptop, or any web accessible computer. Don't forget complete control over lighting.

Like I said, how's your imagination?

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