![\"Best](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-2000.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Entryway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Jetsons-style homecoming starts before you even hit the welcome mat. Whether you\u2019re coming in the front door or through the garage, a few smart gadgets can make your life easier\u00e2\u20ac\u201das long as your Wi-Fi signal is strong enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-doorbell.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-doorbell\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1 Doorbell<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Pros:<\/strong> With a smart doorbell, your phone\u2019s screen shows you who\u2019s at the door\u00e2\u20ac\u201dbe it the UPS driver or a neighbor. Not only that, but you can talk to visitors when you aren\u2019t home and, thanks to a fish-eye lens, check on your garden while you\u2019re out of town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Many smart doorbells require existing doorbell wiring. (If you don\u2019t have wiring set up, you can use a battery-powered doorbell, like Eufy or Amazon\u2019s Ring.) There\u2019s also an ongoing debate about whether we really want cameras plastered everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> Go for it if you\u2019re looking for added security, but otherwise it\u2019s not a necessity. Call it a \u00e2\u20ac\u0153maybe someday\u00e2\u20ac\u009d purchase. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> The right smart lock can be a game changer, letting you open the door without fumbling for your keys. Some unlock automatically as you arrive home; others unlock via a code or the touch of your finger. You can also create temporary codes to allow your dog walker or mother-in-law in when you aren\u2019t there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> To enable certain features, like Alexa, you need to integrate most smart locks with a home hub. While some smart locks connect to the internet via their own Wi-Fi hub, others, like Z-Wave locks, require a separate purchase, like Samsung\u2019s SmartThings hub. Most also require replacing your existing deadbolt, which might not be ideal for renters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> Once you start unlocking your door by touch, taking out your keys feels archaic and time-consuming. If you access your front door often, this is well worth the money. Of course, the lock can also go on the back door, or the door from the garage\u00e2\u20ac\u201dwhatever you use most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, a newcomer to the scene, lets you unlock your door in six ways, including via a fingerprint scanner. TO BUY:<\/strong> Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro + WiFi Bridge, $180; homedepot.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alternative suggestion:<\/strong> If your landlord won\u2019t OK replacing the deadbolt, August\u2019s smart lock is a retrofit option that will work on your existing hardware. TO BUY:<\/strong> August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, $250; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> Back in the 1970s and \u201980s, the remote control garage door opener was the gateway to smart home tech. Now you can open the garage from your phone, whether you\u2019re in the kitchen or miles away. LiftMaster even has an agreement with Amazon allowing delivery drivers to put packages in your garage. Most importantly, these openers alert you when the door has been opened by someone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> If you\u2019ve never done work on your garage door opener before, it might be intimidating to pick a product and set it up. You may need to hire a pro if you\u2019re replacing the opener entirely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n People tend to huddle around the television, so there\u2019s a lot of opportunity for smart gadgets here. Smart TVs are now widely available, and you can augment their features with a few other gizmos to create the perfect movie night<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> Standalone streaming boxes are usually better than the smart software built into your TV. They\u2019re often faster and easier to navigate, and they continually get software updates for increased efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> It may be hard to justify the added cost of a box when your TV can already stream your favorite shows. Plus, you have to figure out an attractive setup (plugging a box into a wall-mounted TV can be especially tricky). You also still have to pay the monthly subscription fee for HBO, Netflix, or other streaming services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> As TVs have gotten thinner and lighter, their speakers have gotten smaller (hence those 70-inch monsters you have to strain to hear). A soundbar is a compact speaker that raises volume, sharpens sound, and creates more immersive action scenes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Soundbars introduce more complexity to your setup. While they\u2019re much simpler to install than a receiver with individual speakers, you may still have to fiddle with cable configurations and settings to get everything working. Plus, unless you have a universal remote, you\u2019re stuck with one more clicker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> If you\u2019re constantly adjusting the blinds to keep the sun from shining in your eyes, motorized shades might be worthwhile. You can set them to open and close on a schedule, or control them with your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant. You can even create a single voice command to turn on the TV and lower the blinds at the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Smart blinds can get very costly, especially if you need custom sizes and professional installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gadgets are only as good as your Wi-Fi signal<\/a>: The more smart devices you have, the more robust your Wi-Fi needs to be. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Keep your router out in the open, away from any obstructions,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d says Joel Crane, a certified wireless network expert. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153If you still experience connection issues, then a home mesh Wi-Fi solution, like Eero<\/a>, Google Wifi<\/a> ($99; amazon.com<\/a>), or Orbi<\/a>, can fill in the dead spots fairly effortlessly.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d In a power outage, some battery-operated devices may still function, though smart features won\u2019t work if your Wi-Fi is down. When the power comes back on, most devices will reconnect automatically (if not, a quick reset should do it).<\/p>\n\n\n\n With the exception of water-saving options, the cost of smart kitchen appliances makes them harder to recommend than gadgets in other areas of the home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> You can turn on a smart faucet with a wave of your hand (helping you wash up without spreading germs<\/a> to the hardware). You can also use your voice to dispense a certain amount of water, so you can fill a pot without waiting at the sink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Some of the highest-end smart faucets can cost about seven times as much as the basic pull-down faucets, and about three times as much as the least expensive hands-free models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> In this age of germ and water-waste sensitivity<\/a>, it might be one of the best smart home upgrades you can make.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> Kohler\u2019s Setra is the model to beat right now. TO BUY:<\/strong> Setra Touchless Kitchen Faucet with Kohler Konnect, $419; homedepot.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> High-end models let you check the refrigerator contents, even while you\u2019re at the grocery store<\/a>; glance at your calendar on the door\u2019s touch screen; and control the temperature from your phone (not that you\u2019d ever necessarily need to).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Smart fridges can be costly\u00e2\u20ac\u201dstarting at roughly 20 to 30 percent more than regular models. Considering most people don\u2019t upgrade their refrigerators on a whim, that\u2019s a hard sell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> This should live in the \u00e2\u20ac\u0153low priority\u00e2\u20ac\u009d category. But if you\u2019re renovating your kitchen<\/a> and in the market for a fancy fridge, the one you choose may come with a few smart features anyway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> Samsung has a wide variety, from top-of-the-line models with a touch screen to midrange options with basic temperature controls. TO BUY:<\/strong> 28 Cu. Ft. 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with Touch Screen Family Hub in Tuscan Stainless Steel, $2,799; samsung.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> Some models connect to Wi-Fi so you can control them with your phone or voice (imagine preheating the oven from your lounge chair on the back deck). You\u2019ll even get a phone notification when your meal is ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Safety features can limit the convenience of these products. Having to press a button on the oven before you turn it on with your phone sort of defeats the purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> If you do a lot of baking, the Wi-Fi connectivity is pretty useful for preheating\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthough certainly not necessary if you\u2019re on a tighter budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> Samsung offers a number of gas and electric ranges with Wi-Fi connectivity. TO BUY:<\/strong> 5.9 Cu. Ft. Freestanding Electric Range with Flex Duo & Dual Door in Stainless Steel, $1,199; samsung.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When your hands are full or your phone is out of reach, voice control really brings smart homes to life. Voice assistants, like Amazon Echo and Google Home, are must-haves for any smart home\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand with smaller units available for $50 or less, you can position a few throughout your space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This hardworking space may be small, but it\u2019s ripe for smarter tech and WI-Fi-enabled shortcuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> You can start and stop cycles remotely, get notified when the laundry is done<\/a>, and receive reminders when your appliance needs maintenance (such as filter changes or tub cleaning).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Upgrading from your current washer and dryer is a $1,000-plus investment, which is rather costly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> The notifications are convenient, and if you need a new washer and dryer anyhow, many of the newest options have standard smart features. But if your current laundry machines work fine, there\u2019s no need to upgrade\u00e2\u20ac\u201djust use Alexa or Google to set a timer instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> LG is one of the best brands in the laundry sphere, and they have plenty of ThinQ models with Wi-Fi features. TO BUY:<\/strong> 5.2 Cu. Ft. Large Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Front Load Washer TurboWash, $1,800; homedepot.com<\/a>. 9.0 Cu. Ft. Large Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Electric Dryer w\/ TurboSteam, $1,800; homedepot.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> While plenty of robot vacuums clean floors, some advanced models come with Wi-Fi, so you can start a cleaning cycle with Alexa and get alerted when the vacuum is stuck or needs its bin emptied. Some can even map your house for more reliable cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Wi-Fi-connected models aren\u2019t always as cheap as serviceable competitors, and only some models can do things like clean a specific room on demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> Robot vacuums are a godsend, especially if you have kids or pets\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand the extra utility you get from the app and voice commands is quite useful when you\u2019re running out the door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> iRobot has a number of Wi-Fi-connected Roomba models, the most high-end of which have automatic dirt disposal. TO BUY:<\/strong> Roomba 675, $270; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Good sleep<\/a> is practically a status symbol\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand a few little splurges can help you rest and restore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> Controlling the lights with an app or voice command is great if your switch is on the other side of the room. Color-changing bulbs let you adjust the color temperature too. That means you can have sun-mimicking light for waking up and warmer, sleep-friendly light for reading before bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> If you have a lot of light fixtures, these bulbs can get expensive. Smart switches might be more cost-effective\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthough they require more involved setup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> If you\u2019re new to a smart home, start here. When coupled with a smart assistant, smart bulbs are incredibly convenient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> Philips\u2019 White Ambiance bulbs have lots of features\u00e2\u20ac\u201dincluding color-temperature adjustment\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand great support from Philips. TO BUY:<\/strong> Philips Hue White 2-Bulb Starter Kit, $70; homedepot.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> Many thermostats are clunky to program, requiring confounding button-pressing sequences. With a smart thermostat, you can set a daily schedule with just a few taps. Some models even learn your habits over time and adjust themselves when you\u2019re out of the house. Nest says it has saved its customers 10 to 15 percent on their heating and cooling bills<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> Wiring a smart thermostat can be complicated, and depending on your home\u2019s climate control system, some thermostats may not be compatible. You can usually check compatibility with different models online; contact a pro for best results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> If you\u2019re picky about your thermostat schedule, a smart model is absolutely worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> The Nest Thermostat E offers the best balance of cost and convenience, though you may need to step up to the higher-priced Nest Learning Thermostat if your wiring isn\u2019t compatible. Visit store.google.com<\/a> to find out if the unit will work in your space. TO BUY:<\/strong> Nest Thermostat E, $169; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If a TV that requires two remotes can bring you to your knees, you don\u2019t want that frustration multiplied in every room of the house. Apple\u2019s HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon\u2019s Alexa will unify control of third-party products so you can manage dozens of smart devices with your phone, tablet, or voice. Look for your hub\u2019s icon on the packaging (to date, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are compatible with thousands of products, while HomeKit connects with over 100 vetted items).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your bathroom may not be the first place you\u2019d think to bring Alexa, but the right tech can make your morning routine<\/a> more streamlined\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand luxurious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> Smart controllers connect to your plumbing to let you manage water temperature or even start the shower with your voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> The controllers can be expensive and usually require professional installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> If you\u2019re looking for a truly deluxe shower setup<\/a>, a controller like this can be amazing\u00e2\u20ac\u201dbut the cost is high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> Moen\u2019s 2-outlet controller is easy to use and offers multiple options for different setups. TO BUY:<\/strong> U by Moen Smart Shower Controller and Valve, $662; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alternative suggestion:<\/strong> Kohler\u2019s Alexa-based showerhead may not have temperature controls, but the built-in speaker will at least give you some tunes while you rinse off in your everyday, low-tech shower. TO BUY:<\/strong> Moxie Showerhead + Bluetooth Wireless Speaker, $219; kohler.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros:<\/strong> Wi-Fi-connected toilets aren\u2019t exactly ubiquitous yet, but Kohler has one on the way. Right now, \u00e2\u20ac\u0153smart\u00e2\u20ac\u009d toilets consist of seats with warming functions, automatic lids, and bidets<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons:<\/strong> High-tech toilet seats aren\u2019t cheap. They can also be a bit complex to install, and you need an electrical outlet nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bottom line:<\/strong> Once you\u2019ve used a high-end bidet, you\u2019ll likely never want to go without one (or worry about hoarding toilet paper).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our pick:<\/strong> Toto\u2019s C100 Electronic Bidet Seat is feature-rich without completely breaking the bank. TO BUY:<\/strong> Toto Washlet C100, $366; homedepot.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alternative suggestion:<\/strong> If your wallet can\u2019t handle the full-suite seat, try a retrofit model for your current toilet. It won\u2019t heat the seat, warm the water, or do your taxes for you, but it\u2019s under $100. TO BUY:<\/strong> Bio Bidet SlimEdge Bidet Attachment, $35; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" It can be tough to know when to buy, when<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[5,976,6,8,9],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2526","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-all-posts-comments","category-life","category-real-estate","category-stuff","category-technology"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","featured_image_urls":{"full":"","thumbnail":"","medium":"","medium_large":"","large":"","1536x1536":"","2048x2048":"","chromenews-featured":"","chromenews-large":"","chromenews-medium":""},"author_info":{"display_name":"Being BOB","author_link":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/author\/admin\/"},"category_info":"All Posts & Comments<\/a> Life<\/a> Real Estate<\/a> Stuff<\/a> Technology<\/a>","tag_info":"Technology","comment_count":"0","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p822aG-EK","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2526","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2526"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2526\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2526"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2526"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beingbobblog.com\/happy-holidays\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2526"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Our pick:<\/strong> Eufy\u2019s video doorbell offers a good balance of price, image quality, and features. TO BUY:<\/strong> Eufy Security Battery-Powered Wireless Video Doorbell, $170; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-deadbolt.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-deadbolt\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n2 Deadbolt<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-garage-opener.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-garage-opener\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n3 Garage door opener<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bottom line:<\/strong> If you are the forgetful type\u00e2\u20ac\u201dor just get peace of mind knowing the garage door is closed\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthis is a great piece of tech to have.
Our pick:<\/strong> LiftMaster\u2019s MyQ series includes door openers as well as add-on kits for existing garage doors. Pro installation is required. TO BUY:<\/strong> LiftMaster WLED Garage Door Opener with MyQ Smart Technology, from $449 with installation; liftmaster.com<\/a> for dealers.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLiving Room<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-apple-tv.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-apple-tv\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n1 Streaming set-top box<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bottom line:<\/strong> It\u2019s not an imperative, but a streaming box can enhance your TV-watching experience, especially if your TV\u2019s smart system is slow and clunky\u00e2\u20ac\u201dwhich is often the case with older or lower-cost sets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our pick:<\/strong> If you\u2019re an Apple household, consider the Apple TV for a familiar interface and easy integration with your other devices. Everyone else can try the Roku. TO BUY:<\/strong> Apple TV 4K, from $179; apple.com<\/a>. Roku Premiere, $39; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-soundbar.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-soundbar\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n2 Soundbar<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bottom line:<\/strong> After you try a soundbar, you\u2019ll never go back to relying solely on TV speakers. The clearer dialogue alone makes this a must-have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our pick:<\/strong> Vizio has a huge selection of quality soundbars, ranging from 20-inch models to large, multispeaker surround-sound setups with big subwoofers. TO BUY:<\/strong> SB2020n-G6 20″ 2.0 Channel Sound Bar, $70; amazon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-shades.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-shades\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n3 Smart shades<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bottom line:<\/strong> If your blinds are a pain point in your day, smart shades could be worth the price\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand they might even lower your energy bill<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our pick:<\/strong> Lutron\u2019s Serena system offers a number of styles and colors, along with custom options. TO BUY:<\/strong> Serena Shades by Lutron, from $349; serenashades.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alternative suggestion:<\/strong> Ikea\u2019s Fyrtur shades are more affordable, though they don\u2019t come in as many styles and colors. TO BUY:<\/strong> Fyrtyr Blackout Roller Blind, from $129; ikea-usa.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNo Time for Wimpy Wi-Fi<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Kitchen<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-faucet.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-faucet\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n1 Faucet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-fridge.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-fridge\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n2 Refrigerator<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-oven.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-oven\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n3 Range and oven<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Please Say a Command<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Laundry Room<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-washer-dryer.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-washer-dryer\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n1 Washer and dryer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-vacuum.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-vacuum\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n2 Robot vacuum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bedroom<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-light-bulbs.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-light-bulbs\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n1 Smart light bulbs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-thermostat.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-thermostat\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n2 Thermostat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your Phone, Command Central<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bathroom<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-shower.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-shower\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n1 Shower controller<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Smart](\"https:\/\/imagesvc.meredithcorp.io\/v3\/mm\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F23%2F2020%2F07%2F09%2Fsmart-home-devices-0720tec-toilet.jpg&q=85\" "\\"smart-home-devices-0720tec-toilet\\"\/")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n2 Toilet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n