Is there still a possible growth for Smart Homes in the UK? Considering the technology breakthroughs does IoT help in progressing the platform of Smart Homes?
Internet of Things (IoT)
Manju March 10, 2022

A smart home is a residence with one or more connected gadgets that allow for a series of interconnected and digitally managed operations. Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is used to link most home automation systems and is controlled and configured by a companion app on a smartphone. Companion apps will also handle a variety of other tasks. For instance, with a simple command, or button click, you can switch on the lights, play music, close the curtains and load Netflix on your TV. Above all, smart home is much more than just controlling your household equipment. The majority of households in the United Kingdom are already smart. Let’s see what the future holds for smart homes in the UK.

How do smart homes work in UK?

The concept of smart homes is very simple. They comprise of one or more intelligent gadgets that are linked together via a network or the internet. These devices can function alone or in conjunction with other devices on the same network. The most common smart home systems in UK comprises a central router that distributes the internet throughout the home and a companion app that connects and configures the devices. Smart home enables users to easily connect their gadgets, monitor and operate appliances/devices from a single interface. 

Also read: Can IoT Play An Important Role In Remote Monitoring? Does Every Business Need to Implement An IoT Monitoring System? 

How to turn your home “smart” in UK?

‘Smart homes’ is a term used to describe dwellings that are connected to the internet. It’s a home with internet-connected equipment that allows for remote monitoring and control of electrical devices and systems. IoT allows individuals to control various appliances such as lights, air conditioners, and television from any location using a smartphone, tablet, or network device via an app. This simple-to-use technology provides residents with a more comfortable, convenient, and secure existence. Here are few ways in which you can turn your conventional home into smart:

  • Smart locks

Smart locks are in great demand nowadays. It enables you to lock and unlock doors remotely without any hassles. Moreover, it records the number of people who have accessed your home.

  • Smart thermostat

By monitoring patterns in the home and adjusting the temperature based on weather conditions, smart thermostats will help you save energy. On your app, you can see your daily and monthly energy usage, as well as areas where you may save energy and money. Also, certain smart thermostats will allow you to set temperature limits and will notify you whenever the limits are exceeded. Smart thermostats may even send you an alert if they lose connection to your Wi-Fi network. Also, another interesting fact about smart thermostats is that 70% of US homes use programmable thermostats to save on their energy and heating/cooling costs! Is’it cool?

Also read: How Can The Internet of Things (IoT) Impact Office Technology And The Day-to-Day Lives Of Employees? 

  • Smart lighting

When it comes to lighting, smart bulbs make it easier to efficiently manage the lights in your house. Smart bulbs can be inserted into the existing sockets in your home, and you can control the lighting using a mobile app, voice command or smart control. Above all, smart bulbs will enable you to turn on lights in all rooms or external lighting from anywhere.

Benefits of building smart homes for UK builders

Day by day the number of smart homes in the UK is increasing at an enormous rate. Smart homes can not only benefit the users but can also benefit the builders. The following are some of the most significant advantages that smart homes can provide to UK builders:

  • More eco friendly

Smart home systems will undoubtedly cut down a structure’s energy consumption by 30 percent by offering homeowners more control over how much energy and lights they use in their homes. This aids housebuilders in the United Kingdom to conform to the government energy efficiency regulations.

  • More inclusive

Smart homes are ideal for people with physical disabilities and old adults. They don’t have to walk around the house in order to turn on/off the lights, see who is at the door, switch on the TV and more, everything can be done via smart devices and voice commands. Therefore, the chances of investing in smart homes are more, which can actually benefit the builders.

Also read: What is Cellular IoT and Why Should Businesses Leverage It?

  • Reduce insurance costs

Insurers are eager to cover a high-tech smart system that monitors every aspect of the home. Protecting the home from burglars and damage from disasters are two important aspects of creating a smart home. Security of smart homes can be easily monitored through interconnected elements such as motion sensors, glass-break sensors, alarms, and security cameras. In case, if any part of the system detects something strange, an alert will be delivered to the homeowner’s smartphone, thus eliminating potential damages or losses. This itself makes it clear how smart homes reduce insurance costs. People who are purchasing a new house are constantly seeking methods to save money. The fact that their new smart home would have lower insurance costs will only add to its attraction. The more appealing the smart home is, the more chances for builders to attain sales.

Conclusion

Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular in the United Kingdom. People of all ages are embracing the concept of smart homes, that’s the reason why there are 2.2 million smart home owners in the UK today. As technology continues to evolve, more smart devices are available on the market. Internet of Things plays an undeniable role in the development of smart homes and will continue to do so in the upcoming years. Speak to our experts to understand how ThinkPalm’s IoT services can help builders create smart homes.


Author Bio

Manju is an enthusiastic content writer working at ThinkPalm. She has a keen interest in writing about the latest advancements in technology. Apart from writing, she is a classical dancer, embraces fashion attires, and loves spending time with her pets.