Have you ever wished for a smart home like the ones you see in the movies? The one where curtains close and lights dim at the press of a button. Smart homes are all the rage, but fully integrated smart home systems can run in the thousands of dollars.
While high-level home automation may be out of reach for the average homeowner, technology has advanced in individual products that make some geewhiz automations approachable for any budget.
Below are a few low-cost and easy smart home hacks that can streamline your daily grind, each chosen for its knack for blending seamlessly into life.
Smart Thermostat
This first one is likely the most expensive of the hacks, but it is well worth its utility and still within the reach of most homeowners. These modern marvels can learn your schedule and adjust the temperature while you are away. The savings can add up quickly and all without having to lift a finger.
Picture this: you’re heading home on a chilly evening, and the house is already toasty. Some models have WIFI hooks that allow you to adjust your temperature while away. You can also pair it with a voice assistant for extra flair—mine responds to a quick “Warm it up!”
Coffee Maker
Next, consider a smart coffee maker. My neighbor swears by hers. Program it via an app, and your brew’s ready when your alarm sounds in the morning. Some models also grind the coffee fresh right before brewing for the ultimate coffeehouse taste. It’s a small win, but when you’re half-asleep, it feels like a miracle.
Smart Lighting on the Cheap
Smart bulbs are a game-changer. I swapped out my old bulbs for ones that shift color temperature based on the time of day—bright white (around 5000-6500K) for morning focus, warm amber (around 2700-3500K) for winding down. The brighter light mimics natural sunlight. It’s intense and energizing, often used for focus or task lighting.
Soft light, appearing warmer and less intense, creates a cozy, relaxed vibe.
These bulbs are a tiny fraction of the cost and labor required to wire your lighting into a complete home automation system. You can set schedules or control them from your phone.
Smart Plugs
Now, even your older dumb appliances and gadgets can get smart. Smart plugs turn regular devices—like that ancient fan in your bedroom—into app-controlled marvels. They’re cheap, versatile, and a quick way to automate your existing devices.
Robot Vacuum
Thank my wife for including this on my list. She swears by it, I can’t stand this gadget, but it’s included for its perceived utility. I suppose they’re better than not doing anything. Some models map your home and let you target specific rooms via an app. It’s like having a tiny maid who never complains – but does occasionally whine.
Doorbell Camera
For security and video record keeping, a smart doorbell with a camera is clutch. I love checking my phone to see who’s at the door—delivery guy or nosy neighbor. Standard features include motion detectors and two-way audio. The audio works whether you’re home or not. This is great because it will always appear as if you are home.
Smart Speakers
Finally, a smart speaker can tie it all together. It’s your home’s command center, allowing you to control many other devices with a quick voice command. Mine plays my morning playlist, reads the news, and even reminds me to water the plants. It’s like having a personal assistant who never takes a day off.
These gadgets really help in our busy lives by reclaiming time and cutting stress. Start with one or two, and you’ll soon wonder how you ever lived without them.
Got a favorite smart device? Drop it in the comments—I’m always on the lookout for the next hack to make life smoother.