A smartphone is good for more than surfing the web or making calls. iPhone Mobile Apps let you automate nearly everything in your home, from the lights to your appliances. Give the appearance of being home when you are away or control devices in each room of your house, all while relaxing in your living room.
Automating your Home with iPhone Mobile Apps
The increasingly popular iPhone has numerous apps that allow owners to control everything from a custom home theater to a Netflix account from their phone, but automated apps go beyond just entertainment. The Control4 app gives you full system control, including the ability to monitor the lights, audio visual system, radio and thermostat. Now you can leave your air conditioning or heat at a higher/lower setting while you’re at work and adjust the thermostat right before you head home so the temperature is exactly how you like it when you arrive.
If you have a Lutron HomeWorks system, you have several options for automating your home. The Light Control app gives you access to your system over a 3G, Edge or WiFi network. It also stores information and configures itself automatically for easier use. The HW Remote app gives you the power to raise or lower blinds, which is perfect for letting in or blocking out natural light throughout the day.
Another app to consider is CozyHome, which works with a pre-programmed automation controller from AMX. This app gives you room-by-room control of your audio visual system, security, lighting and heating/cooling systems. Looking for more control over individual appliances? The House Control app works with a wireless radio module, allowing you to turn on lamps, computers, heaters, coffee machines and even outdoor lights for evenings when you’ll be arriving home after dark.
HomeWatch allows you to use your iPhone to control your TV and appliances like the refrigerator, oven and dryer. Imagine the convenience of programming your oven to preheat, allowing you to slide a casserole into an already-warm stove minutes after you walk in the door. What once sounded like space-age technology has become a reality and widely appreciated convenience.
Being able to automate your house with mobile apps is a great way to make sure your home is safe and sound while you’re away and excellent for saving money on your utility bill. Being able to control systems like lighting from your iPhone allows you to illuminate different areas of your home whenever you want, creating a random pattern more convincing than lights set on a timer. Your iPhone can also control webcams from your home computer, in hallways or aimed at doorways so you can check on your house whenever you want. In addition to keeping an eye on your property, you can virtually look in on your pets throughout the day.
Apps are designed to make your life easier, allowing you to relax while you’re at work, running errands or traveling. Some apps may cost a little money or require some setup time, but each will pay off in savings and peace of mind in the long run.
Author Bio
Jessica is interested in integrating technology in all aspects of life, including her custom home theater.
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