Upgrading Your Home to a Smart Home

Published on: 26 November 2018 Last Updated on: 13 December 2021

It seems like a thing of the future; something reminiscent of sci-fi films set on spaceships, complete with large, omniscient motherboard computers. But having a smart home controlled by virtual voice command technology is very much a thing of the present. With the release of Apple’s Siri technology in 2011, the virtual assistant game was changed. The ability to give commands verbally to an in-device personality, Siri, opened the door for easier, more productive living. Now with Amazon and Google joining the race, and other companies following suit, there’s suddenly a whole heap of new virtual assistant options.

Moving away from purely phone/tablet based assistants, the market now includes home-based alternatives. Google Home or Amazon’s Echo (complete with assistant Alexa) allows users to turn their space into “smart homes”, wherein with a simple verbal command, they can instruct their assistant to perform all kinds of tasks around the home, such as turning lights on and off.

There are also some things you should be careful about. According to Lendi smart home can be targeted by hackers since the whole house is connected via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Some of the best things include While upgrading Smart Home:

Controlling lights
Changing a home’s temperature
Playing music
Opening/closing garage doors

There are loads more options you can choose from, and third-party capabilities you can put in place (Amazon’s Alexa can perform over 10,000 tasks!), like creating lighting sensors, or scheduling changes to your lights, alarms, and thermostat.

Virtual voice assistants also signal a massive change in the lives of people living with disabilities or illness. The chance to utilise voice commands to perform everyday tasks removes the barrier that mobility issues and physical impairment create. For able-bodied people, virtual assistants are a cool new way to increase productivity and promote convenience. Consider then the massive improvement this technology can make in the lives of people living and thriving with disabilities. The extra support can be life-changing. All in all, another point scored for the virtual assistants’ pros list.

So, the basic gist is that having your house properly set up as a smart home is awesome and opens you up to a heap of benefits. However, setting the system up can be confusing.

You’ll largely need to consider two things:

Choosing your assistant:

The main players that hold the monopoly on the smart home/virtual assistant market are Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and Google’s Assistant. They all have their pros and cons, and your choosing which one suits you best is ultimately a matter of personal preference. They all offer easy-to-use voice commands, but there are several different things to consider when deciding on an assistant:

Price
Capabilities (what can you do/control?)
Compatibility with Android or Apple products
Ease of set-up (how long and difficult is it to get running?)
Ease of use (Is it perceptive and easy to talk to?)
Assistant’s intelligence (How easily and well it can answer questions.)

Choose your hardware:

After deciding on your virtual assistant, you’ll need physical hardware to support it. Each different assistant offers different options, like the Amazon Echo. They too have their pros and cons. There are also different models of each hardware device, so there are multiple cost, sound and utility options. Your hardware largely depends on which assistant you choose, so that will also narrow down your options.

The last important thing to think about when considering the purchase of a virtual voice assistant is your internet’s performance. If you’re having to use your phone’s personal hotspot at home because your connection is slow and temperamental, perhaps think about changing your home internet’s carrier or plan. You’ll need to choose a reliable broadband connection to run and use your assisting device, and you may need to research bandwidth, and how this affects how well your devices stream content and perform commands.

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Top 6 Reasons To Use Soft Washing Services

Using a soft washing service can help you get your home cleaned without the hassle of scrubbing. Soft washing services help remove dirt, mold, and mildew from your windows and other surfaces of your house. In addition, these services prevent streaks from appearing on your windows. They are also eco-friendly, so you won't have to worry about cleaning your windows and glass surfaces with harsh chemicals. Here Are Six Prime Reasons To Use Soft Washing Services 1. Soft washing removes dirt, mold, and mildew Using soft washing is a safer and environmentally friendly way to clean the exterior of your home. Instead of using high-pressure water, soft washing services use a combination of water, bleach, and surfactant to break down contaminants. These chemicals are biodegradable and are at the same concentration as drinking water. Fungi and algae can cause black streaks on roofs. They also spread quickly and can be a health hazard. The climate can encourage these fungi to grow. Fortunately, you can keep your plants safe from these invasive insects with the help of a soft washing solution. Using a soft washing solution can be helpful in removing moss, mold, and algae. These organisms are unsightly and can be harmful to your family. While a power wash may remove these stains, a soft wash will leave your exterior surfaces cleaner. When applying a soft wash solution, be sure to wear protective clothing. This will protect you from the chlorine that is used. The solution should be applied to the surface and then rinsed off. Be careful not to spray the plants in the area. You can also use a neutralizing agent before spraying. Many soft-washing solutions contain diluted bleach. This chemical kills bacteria, viruses, and mold. It is the primary agent for cleaning surfaces. It works by killing microorganisms at the molecular level. It is also safe to use when diluted with water. 2. Removes dust, dirt, and grime from glass surfaces Whether you're cleaning a shower, a bathroom window, or the inside of a home, you'll need to make sure that your glass is streak-free and dirt-free. The key to getting this job done is to use the right tools. Luckily, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. One of the best ways to get streak-free results is by using vinegar. This acidic liquid can cut through grit and break up mineral deposits. You can also use it to remove stubborn stains. It's a great way to clean glass on any size window or door. Another option is to use a squeegee. Squeegees can be a bit intimidating. They're designed to send liquids down the glass, but they can often cause streaks and dirt. Another good option for a streak-free window is to use a microfiber cloth. These cloths are much more absorbent than paper towels and will leave your windows streak-free. They are also washable. In addition to these tools, you'll need to make sure that you're putting the proper effort into cleaning your glass. It's easy to do this, but you'll need to learn some basic techniques. Taking the time to apply the right amount of solution to your glass will make the difference. You can even make your own window cleaner. There are many recipes out there, but the simplest is to combine equal parts white vinegar and water. You can then apply the mixture with a spray bottle. After soaking, scrub the area with a soft cloth. This will remove the smudges and dust that the vinegar left behind. 3. Removes dust, dirt, and grime from windows Keeping your windows clean and free of dust can improve the resale value of your home. It also helps regulate the temperature inside your house. It's important to remember that dirt on the windows can lead to discoloration, which can be a nuisance in colder months. Aside from cleaning the windows, it's also important to clean the screens and blinds. This will keep your home's energy bills low and allow your home to benefit from natural sunlight. One of the best window-washing strategies is using a soft cloth and a squeegee. You can also make a homemade cleaning solution with water and dish soap. The best part is that it works on all kinds of glass. Another trick is to use a microfiber cloth. These are washable and can be secured with rubber bands. They are also very absorbent, which means they can remove dust without leaving behind lint. They will also leave your glass shiny and streak-free. Lastly, a sticky lint roller can be used to clean the screens of your windows. It's not as good at removing dust as a microfiber cloth, but it can get rid of most of the dirt. You should also try to use vinegar, which is a good all-around cleaner. It's effective at removing stubborn stains and can cut through grit. It's also safe for kids and pets. 4. Prevents streaks on windows Using soft washing services is a great way to prevent streaks on windows. A good cleaning solution, like white vinegar, will work wonders for your mirrors and glass surfaces. The key is to make sure you rinse your windows completely before you start wiping them. This will ensure you don't leave a soapy residue behind that can dull your glass. You should also make sure to wipe your windows with a microfiber cloth, which can remove lint from your glass. You can also use a squeegee to dry the glass. If you do, you'll be able to get a streak-free finish. You can also clean your windows with a chamois or microfiber cloth. These will not leave any lint behind and will help you avoid leaving streaks. If you do, you should take your time and polish your glass with a second cloth after it's all dry. You should also clean your squeegee every so often to avoid leaving streaks. You can use a squeegee for the inside and outside of your windows. A squeegee with a rubber lip can be used to remove excess water. You can also use a wand extension to reach high places. You'll be able to dry your windows more quickly if you are in a sunny location. You can also make your own window cleaning solution. For one liter of water, you can add three drops of dish soap. This will cut through grease and make your windows shine. You can store the mixture in a jug. You can also add citric acid to the water. You can mix this solution in a 50/50 ratio. You May Also Check: Benefits Of Having A Cordless Vacuum Cleaner At Home 5. Cleans delicate areas of your home Getting your home's interior and exterior surfaces micro-cleaned is a no-brainer in today's tough economy. And while you are at it, why not spruce up your swagger with a soft wash? You'll have a whole lot more time for the more important stuff like slacking off, snoozing, or stumbling out to the pub after work hours. The best part is you don't have to do it yourself. The results are bound to impress even your pickiest of picky relatives. It's also a win-win-win situation. You'll have a tidy, polished home to come home to, and the all-important time to yourself. 6. Is eco-friendly Using soft washing services is an eco-friendly way to keep your exterior surfaces clean and free of fungi, mold, and bacteria. It's a great alternative to chemical cleaners, which can contaminate soil and groundwater, as well as leave harmful fumes in the air. It also requires less water than power or pressure washing. In fact, it only uses one-third of the amount of water of these cleaning methods. The low-pressure delivery of the solution allows for localized application, reducing water use. The process of soft washing uses a blend of natural solutions that are biodegradable and environmentally safe. These products include vinegar, which is a natural disinfectant, sodium percarbonate, which breaks down stains, and potassium hydroxide, which is a powerful disinfectant and mildew killer. You can find eco-friendly soft wash chemicals online and at home improvement stores. Make sure to read the label on the product before purchasing. It's best to use it according to the manufacturer's directions. This will save you time and money while making your home or business safe and sanitized. Unlike chemical cleaners, which can contaminate your property, eco-friendly soft washing is nontoxic and safe for pets and humans. It's the perfect choice for delicate materials such as decks, fences, and patios. It's also a greener alternative to traditional pressure and power washing. It's important to choose a company that has experience in soft washing. They will be able to give you the best results. Read Also: Mold Growth At Home: What You Should Know And What You Can Do Home Maintenance Plans And Cleaning Tips During Covid-19 Top Home Cleaning Tips

DIY vs Professional Heaters Installation in Fairfax VA

There are several reasons why people choose to take the DIY route to install a new water heater; the number one being financial constraints. However, you may want to give it a second thought and consider hiring a professional heaters installation for the same. Hot water is considered to be one of the basic necessities for any home. And having the water heater installed correctly is a crucial requirement to have peace of mind in the long-run. Installing it yourself may seem like an easy task at first; however, without proper knowledge, experience and/or training, the same can rather be dangerous. In addition to this, if you are looking to install a gas water heater, even a minor mistake can cause serious damage to your property and may even cost you your own life. Taking other factors into consideration; hiring a professional heaters installation to install your water heater would be a better option any day. You can read more about the importance of hiring a licensed plumber here. DIY vs Professional Heaters Installation in Fairfax VA: Let’s take a look at these key factors in detail: 1. Tools, Skills and Product Knowledge Authorized professionals are prepared with appropriate skills, tools, and training to guarantee proper water heater installation. It does not matter whether the heater is electric, gas, tank-based, tankless, geothermal, or condensing; they have the right expertise and knowledge of these products so as to get the job done appropriately. Their abilities and know-how incorporate everything from plumbing to electrical, carpentry, construction and installation standards. In addition to this, some professional heaters installation service providers like DM Select Services - Fairfax Station consign the installation and/or repair jobs only to licensed and insured plumbers, and guarantee perfection in work. So, you can stay assured that the installation will be done correctly. Furthermore, many manufacturers provide warranty for water heaters only if a licensed plumber would install them. To ensure the same, they demand the hired plumber’s license details to register the warranty of the product. In case, you fail to provide those details or DIY the installation, the warranty will be rendered invalid. 2. Inspection, Permits, and Future Expenses An opportunity may arrive when you may want to move to a new place or buy another property and want to sell your house. On the off chance that you take the DIY route to install the water heater, you will have to get it examined and apply for a permit by paying the required fee. In case, your water heater does not pass the review, you will have to get it fixed or re-installed. So, it is quite possible that you will end up spending money twice on a water heater, if not properly installed. On the other hand, an authorized and professional service provider will guarantee that your water heater stands true to the set standards. And guess what? You won’t have to apply for a permit separately even if you want to re-sell your house. The only thing you have to keep in mind is to choose a service provider that connects you with licensed professionals and ensures all codes and standards are met. Another thing to check for is guarantee and/or warranty terms offered by the service provider. This way, you can contact the same provider to address your concern on the off chance that an issue comes up. While the unit is still under guarantee or warranty, without having to bear any additional expenses for repair. 3. Safety and Peace of mind Last but not the least, getting your water installed by a professional provides you with an added layer of security. Since most heaters that cater to an entire house or offices are gas water heaters, it is crucial to have them installed properly. One simple mistake or overlooking minor things like a flawed TPR valve can lead to serious damages. Secondly, gas water heaters are highly combustible, so even the smallest mistake during installation can cause a blast, leading to serious injuries or even death. So, when you choose a professional heaters installation service provider, you not only ensure that the heater is installed right but also yours and your family’s safety and peace of mind. After all, your safety is worth much more than saving a few bucks off installation fee. Read Also: Five Important Wedding Catering Considerations for Event Planning A Few Things You Should Know Before Finalizing Managed It Services

Top Secrets That Slash Your Kitchen Remodeling Bill in Half

Budget is the scary word that bothers you when you undertake the work of kitchen renovation. It is one of the reasons only a few people can go ahead with the work as planned. No one can deny that the condition of the kitchen is a throwback of your living style. The thing that leaves you in dilemma is how to avoid making the project exorbitant in terms of money. Do you know where to indulge and how to mitigate the cost of renovation? Remember that the result of home renovation must not only create a glamorous look but also add value to your property. Unfortunately, it takes very little time for the cost to escalate in the Kitchen Cabinet Renovation project. Do you know that you can get the dream kitchen without splurging? Keep your budget tight and make your kitchen the most favorable area of your home with ease. Keeping the cabinets The renovation or makeover of cabinets is one of the areas where you need to spend a major part of your finances. How about preserving the old cabinets if they are in good condition? You can just coast them with paint or resurface the cabinets to reduce the cost. Consulting with the experts will reveal better results, but having a mind of your own is a better way to ensure a beautiful result in the end. Retaining the layout The kitchen designer you hire may show eagerness to change the layout completely such as making it L-shaped, like a gallery or corridor, making it with a single wall. Unfortunately, the present layout may be perfect. The only thing you need to do during the renovation work is to arrange the things properly so that everything you want becomes readily available. If you leave the shape of the kitchen undisturbed, you can save a lot of money and stay within the budget you have created in the beginning. Discarding the things smartly When it comes to the electrical items in the kitchen, you may not decide to keep a few of them such as the refrigerator, stove, and the chimney. If you decide to sell these items, try to get an estimate from the second-hand shops. You can also take photos of these items and post them in the online selling sites to find out if the option has the potential to fetch more money. If you are lucky enough to sell them at a good price, it can help you to buy a new appliance at half the cost and it is a good option to rely on. Choosing the countertop The material to be used for the countertop can raise a few concerns, especially when you need to stay within the budget. Even though there is a wide range of options available with varying rates, combining two materials can help you to curb the cost. You can replace granite with a laminate that comes with stone-like appearance. Flooring options Kitchen is one of the places where the flooring needs to be considered carefully. When you do not have enough to spend on the renovation work, using a ceramic tile can fulfill your wish. It may not be as attractive as the other options, but it is highly durable. Alternatively, you can install laminate flooring over the current floor for the best results. The vinyl tiles are also cheap, so you may consider this option as well. Buying from the internet People love to shop from the internet nowadays, but that does not mean that you can buy anything online as the variance of prices can be unimaginably high or low. Find out which days are the best when you buy certain items online so that you can grab the discounts easily. You can also buy second-hand items from people you know such as a refrigerator that your friend has hardly used. Having enough time to buy the items you need for kitchen remodeling helps you to go for comparison shopping before you finalize the decision to purchase. There are plenty of options available when you want to reduce the cost of the kitchen items to half. The only thing you need to do is to find the right opportunity. You can try to check the options of kitchen remodeling before going ahead with the project. Try to avoid indulging unnecessarily to make your investment worth the money you spend on a kitchen renovation. Read Also: 9 Feng Shui Tips For A Calmer Kitchen Kitchen Renovations Must Be Done At Regular Intervals

Upgrading Your Home to a Smart Home

Some of the best things include While upgrading Smart Home:

Choosing your assistant:

Choose your hardware:

How Cleaning Helps Us Feel Better and Why We Don’t Do It

Las Vegas Electricians Share Fun Lighting Ideas for Your Home

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Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Top 6 Reasons To Use Soft Washing Services

DIY vs Professional Heaters Installation in Fairfax VA

Top Secrets That Slash Your Kitchen Remodeling Bill in Half

Upgrading Your Home to a Smart Home

Some of the best things include While upgrading Smart Home:

Choosing your assistant:

Choose your hardware:

Share this Article

How Cleaning Helps Us Feel Better and Why We Don’t Do It

Las Vegas Electricians Share Fun Lighting Ideas for Your Home

Tags

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

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