Electric.ie January February 2020

38 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • Kick Starting Home Automation W ith the rise in popularity of smart technology, the experts at Schneider Electric share how smart heating can be the ideal first step into the world of home automation. Research has shown that smart energy is the number one key driver for the connected home, taking priority over security, entertainment and appliances like smart fridges. A smart heating system is often the first step that homeowners take towards home automation, with the integration of further smart devices such as lights and alarms following later. But why is heating proving to be such a popular initial step towards the smart home? Friendly and familiar While there is still much apprehension around some smart technology, the concept of smart heating is already becoming familiar territory for homeowners. Controlling heating via your phone is now commonplace, as manufacturers and even energy companies themselves develop and promote their own systems. Fuss-free installation With no need for any re-wiring, smart heating systems are one of the quickest and simplest ways to add automation to any home. Many systems come with industry standard wall plates, allowing installers to simply switch a traditional thermostat for a smart one. The system is up and running as soon as the controls are commissioned. Enhanced convenience Smart heating offers the convenience of controlling a property’s temperature and hot water from a smartphone, anywhere in the world. When plans change, heating schedules can be changed too. It’s also ideal for remotely monitoring heating at a second property – whether that’s a holiday home, or an elderly relative’s house. Personalised room control Thanks to innovative additions like smart radiator thermostats, it’s easier than ever to create designated ‘heating zones’, allowing users to take their smart Schneider Electric ‒ by Joe Crawford, Marketing Manager at Schneider Electric Ireland.