If you are a homeowner or tech enthusiast, you have likely heard of popular smart home security systems like motion detectors, doorbell cameras, and smart locks. However, these systems only scratch the surface of a comprehensive home security system. In this post, we will highlight some of the lesser-known smart home security features and explain how they can make your home safe and secure.
Unconventional Smart Home Security Features
While mainstream smart security features are the go-to for many smart homeowners, several other unconventional smart security tools often go unnoticed. Their well-known counterparts commonly overshadow these features despite offering unique capabilities and enhanced security. Let’s shed some light on these lesser-known smart home security features.
Smart Water Leak Sensors
Smart water leak sensors help to add a layer of protection to any smart home security system. These devices detect the presence of water where it shouldn’t be, such as near your washing machine, under your sink, or around your water heater, and send alerts to your smartphone if a leak is detected. Early detection allows homeowners to address the problem before it escalates into significant water damage, mold growth, or even a flood. One of the best options for these sensors is the IQ Flood-S from Qolsys; it offers real-time alerts, is easy to install, and integrates with the rest of your smart home.
Smart Water Valves
On the other hand, smart water valves are designed to stop a problem in its tracks. When paired with a smart water leak sensor, the smart valve automatically shuts off the water supply when a leak is detected. This immediate response can prevent damage to your property and possessions. It not only saves you potential repair and replacement costs but also the inconvenience and stress associated with water damage. Alarm.com offers a great smart valve system that can be controlled remotely through a smartphone app and includes features such as automatic shut-off during a water leak.
By including smart water valves and sensors in your home security system, you protect your home against unexpected water-related incidents. This can be particularly useful for homeowners who travel frequently or have a second home that they want to protect from water damage.
Home Safety with Smart Detection Devices
Smart devices that detect potential hazards like smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide are convenient and help keep your home safe. When a danger is detected, the device sounds an alarm and sends instant alerts to your smartphone so you can take immediate action. Some smart detection devices also have built-in features that automatically contact emergency services in case of a serious threat, providing extra protection for you and your family.
Smart Smoke Detectors
Smart smoke detectors are a significant upgrade from traditional smoke detectors. They offer many benefits that enhance the safety of your home. Unlike standard detectors, smart smoke detectors can send instant notifications to your smartphone in case of a fire, even when you are not at home. This ability to provide real-time alerts allows homeowners to take immediate action. These devices can also be integrated with home security systems, like NICE. In the event of a fire, the integrated system can trigger an alarm, alert the local fire department, or even activate a smart water valve system to try and extinguish the fire. A popular smart smoke detector that utilizes the latest technology and can be integrated with various home security systems is the 2gig FireFighter.
Smart Thermostats
While primarily known for enhancing energy efficiency and comfort, these devices also play a role in home safety. Smart thermostats can monitor your home’s temperature and alert you if it drops dangerously low or rises too high, preventing issues like frozen pipes or overheating appliances. They can also be integrated with your home security system, providing an extra layer of protection. For instance, in case of a fire, a smart thermostat can detect the sudden temperature rise and, if integrated, can alert the home security system. With the Alarm.com smart thermostat, you can make sure your home is always at the perfect temperature while also providing an added layer of safety.
With these smart detection devices, you can rest assured that your home is monitored 24/7, even when you’re not around. This allows you to detect hazards before they escalate into larger issues.
Smart Control of Home Entry Points
Securing entry points such as doors and garages is essential in maintaining the safety of your home. Knowing that these access points are secure can be reassuring especially when you’re away. It’s not just about protecting material possessions but about your family’s safety. Unwanted entries can lead to a breach of privacy and come with potential safety threats.
Garage Door Tilt Sensors
Garage door automation systems, like tilt sensors, provide an added layer of security to your homes. Tilt sensors detect the movement of the garage door and can alert homeowners when the garage door is opened, even when they are away from home. This function could prevent unauthorized access by alerting the homeowners to any suspicious activity, enabling them to take steps to protect their homes.
Remote Garage Door Access
Remote garage door access, on the other hand, allows homeowners to control their garage doors from anywhere using their smartphone. This feature is particularly useful when homeowners may have forgotten to close their garage door or need to grant access to trusted individuals while they’re away. With remote access, homeowners can instantly close the door upon receiving a tilt sensor alert, stopping potential trespassing or burglary.
When integrated with other smart home security devices, these automated garage door systems help create a well-rounded and robust home security setup. As with all smart home security systems, the wired vs wireless debate is relevant.
Integration With Traditional Smart Home Security Systems
Speaking of integration, all the unique systems above can work seamlessly with traditional smart home security systems like motion sensors, video cameras, and smart locks. While many homeowners have heard of Alexa and Google home automation, a professional grade system has a variety of benefits. With a whole-home automation system with wired integration, like NICE, homeowners can sync all security devices together and control them from one central location. These systems also do not rely on a Wi-Fi connection, so you can stay alert even when your internet is down.
The ability to monitor and control all aspects of the home from one location gives homeowners peace of mind knowing that their home is always secure. Additionally, access to the system can only be granted by the homeowner, greatly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
Enhance your Home Security and Safety with AIS
Doorbell cameras, motion detectors, and smart locks are the basics of smart home security, but there’s a whole world of advanced features to take your security to the next level. Incorporating these lesser-known elements into your setup not only makes your home safer, but smarter too. Ready to start making your home more secure? Contact us today to integrate traditional smart home safety systems and the unique systems listed above.
