Should You Automate Your Own Home?

Now that home automation kits and equipment are becoming more mainstream and accessible to the general public, the thought to build your own home automation system resonates with a lot of people. After all, it has to be a lot cheaper to do it yourself than to hire a professional, right? And how hard could it be to install a few gadgets and sync it up to your mobile device? Sure you could install a home automation system yourself. But let’s look at the pros and cons of a do-it-yourself installation versus hiring a professional. 

Timeframe

When you first start out planning your home automation renovation, you’re probably seeing the end product. Visions of voice controlled lighting and sound, a state-of-the-art security system and a home entertainment center to rival the Joneses are the motivation to get started on upgrading and adding to your home electronics. However, you’re just one person, maybe two. And your knowledge of how all the equipment gets installed into your home is limited. You may be motivated enough to do some research so you install everything correctly. But the time you invest on making sure you do it correctly just makes your final project get further and further away. 

The timeframe to install your own home automation system can take quite some time and can be a daunting project. However, when you hire professionals, their knowledge and expertise can cut that timeframe down dramatically. There’s no questioning whether the correct wires were connected or the correct piece of equipment was installed in the most optimal place. Even if sub-contractors are hired, your home automation experts can efficiently manage and communicate with all parties taking the stress, confusion and elongated timelines out of any DIY project. 

Beyond Knowledge

Ok, so we all know that the professionals have the knowledge and expertise to quickly install your home automation projects. But they also do more than just take equipment and plug it into your home. They take into consideration your style of living and can suggest what products will work and look the best for what you want to achieve. While you can have a good idea of what will work in your home, a professional installer knows what products can integrate seamlessly into your lifestyle. And to build on that, they also keep up with home automation trends. A good home automation expert will be able to tell you about any new technology that is growing in popularity and give you an educated recommendation. 

While a DIY project can save you money in the long run, the time it takes to achieve your integrated dream home may outweigh the money you save. And if you’re not familiar or comfortable with home renovation projects that involve electrical systems, the additional time it would take to learn those components can add to your timeline. In addition to a professional’s expertise and knowledge, a professional can ultimately give you peace of mind. Peace of mind that everything’s been installed correctly and accurately. And if home security is part of your home automation project, then peace of mind is the most important aspect of that project. 

So trust your home automation design to a professional and sleep peacefully at night. Contact Terracom Systems to get started on your home automation project.