What is a smart home?
A smart home is one that automates everyday stuff like lights, heating, plugs, and security so you don’t have to faff about doing it yourself.
How can smart home tech help elderly relatives?
Automation improves safety and independence — lights trigger on movement, reminders can play automatically, and sensors detect unusual activity.
Will smart home devices increase electricity bills?
Smart devices usually lower bills by optimising heating, lighting, and energy use — saving watts and money over time.
Do I need Alexa or Google Assistant for a smart home?
Smart homes work perfectly without voice assistants. Alexa and Google simply add extra control options.
Are smart home systems secure?
Local automation systems keep data within the home network, minimising exposure to online security risks and cloud dependency.
Why are plastic backboxes better for smart homes?
Plastic backboxes reduce interference with wireless signals, improving the reliability and range of connected devices.
Do I need Cat6 cabling if my house already has Wi-Fi?
Cat6 cabling provides more stable, faster connections for TVs, routers, and home offices where Wi-Fi might drop or lag.
What happens to a smart home if the internet goes down?
Local devices keep running as normal. Only cloud or voice services pause temporarily, meaning most of your automations carry on.
Why include PL, SL & N cables in a futureproof rewire?
Running permanent live, switched live and neutral to every lighting point makes any switch smart-ready without additional rewiring later.
Do I need to be rich to have a smart home?
Nope. You don’t need deep pockets, just the right plan. Start small and build up — automation isn’t only for mansions.