Smart home security and home automation guide

The “smart home” is no longer a futuristic fantasy—it’s part of everyday life! Gone are the days when home automation meant wild ideas from sci-fi movies. Now, robot vacuums zip around our floors, smart thermostats learn our routines and video doorbells let us greet guests (or spot package deliveries) from anywhere. Even our lights, speakers, and appliances can be controlled with a tap or a voice command.

In many ways, today’s smart home technology goes beyond what early dreamers could have imagined. But what makes a home “smart”? And how does home automation work? If you’re not sure, don’t worry—we’re here to help!

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of smart home security and automation. Discover how these clever technologies can make your home safer, more convenient, and more energy-efficient—so you can enjoy all the perks of modern living.

What is a smart home?

Today’s modern world has seen a real shift in the way we interact with our appliances, our home security systems and even the way we query the internet for information. A smart home enables homeowners to remotely operate appliances, doorbell cameras, lights and thermostats, etc., from a smartphone or tablet with an internet connection.

What are the benefits of a smart home?

Smart home technology is transforming the way we live. With smart devices, homeowners can easily manage their utility usage from anywhere, helping to reduce energy consumption and save money. Imagine adjusting your thermostat or turning off lights remotely, so you never waste energy when you’re away.

Safety and security are also major perks. Smart cameras, doorbells, and locks let you keep an eye on your home and control access, giving you peace of mind whether you’re at work or on vacation.

Beyond these essentials, smart homes bring a host of other advantages:

• Accessibility: Voice commands and automation make daily tasks easier for everyone, especially those with limited mobility.
• Entertainment: Seamlessly connect speakers, TVs, and streaming devices for a personalized experience throughout your home.
• Home Management: Get reminders for maintenance, monitor indoor air quality, and even automate pet care or garden watering.

With all these benefits, smart home technology makes your home safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable.

What is home automation?

Home automation means your home’s systems and devices work smarter, not harder. By choosing appliances and gadgets that connect to your home Wi-Fi, you can check their status and control them from virtually anywhere—giving you more freedom and peace of mind.

With home automation, you’ll get instant alerts if something’s wrong, like a sump pump failure or a carbon monoxide warning, so you can act quickly. You can also tackle chores remotely, like starting a load of laundry before you even walk in the door.

Ultimately, smart home technology—also known as the Internet of Things (IoT)—makes life easier, safer, and more energy-efficient. At American Family Insurance, we want to reward you for making your home smarter. Connect with your American Family agent to learn how you could qualify for a smart home discount.

How to make your home a smart home

With so many smart devices available today, building a smart home that fits your needs is easier than ever. The key is to start with reliable Wi-Fi—this ensures your tech stays connected whether you’re at home or away.

Getting Started:

• Smart home hub: Acts as your home’s command center, letting you control devices with your voice or phone.
• Smart outlets and power strips: Manage energy use and turn devices on or off remotely.
• Smart sensors: Smoke, carbon monoxide, and water sensors alert you instantly to trouble.
• Wi-Fi-enabled lights: Customize lighting and control it from anywhere.
• DIY security systems: Tailor protection to your home’s needs.
• Upgraded appliances: Track energy use and get alerts when something’s wrong.

Must-Have Smart Devices:

Wi-Fi-connected devices keep you informed and in control, no matter where you are. Here’s a closer look at some top picks:

• Smart security systems: Today’s systems do more than sound alarms—they can contact emergency services, send alerts for broken windows, and even distinguish between pets and intruders.
• Enhanced smoke alarms: These can notify you and emergency responders and even turn on lights to help you exit safely.
• Smart door locks: Lock or unlock doors remotely, share digital keys with trusted visitors, and enjoy features like automatic unlocking as you approach.
• Video doorbells: See and speak to visitors in real time, with features like night vision and motion detection for added peace of mind.
• Water leak sensors: Get instant alerts if a leak is detected, helping you prevent costly damage before it starts.

Smart home technology puts you in control, making your home safer, more efficient, and tailored to your lifestyle—so you can relax and enjoy modern living.

How to automate home appliances

Today, most major appliance brands offer smart, Wi-Fi-enabled options—from refrigerators and ovens to water heaters and energy monitors. Setting up home automation is easier than ever:

1. Make sure you have a reliable Wi-Fi connection.
2. Connect your smart appliances to your network.
3. Download the manufacturer’s app to your smartphone.
4. Link the app to your appliances and customize settings to fit your routine.

Once you’re set up, here are some smart ways to get the most out of your automated appliances:

• Save Money with Smart Plugs:
  Plug in devices like coffee makers or lamps and control them remotely, or set schedules to make your home look lived-in when you’re away. Smart power strips let you manage multiple devices at once.
• Smarter Climate Control:
  Modern smart thermostats use machine learning to understand your habits and automatically adjust temperatures for comfort and energy savings. You can even control your home’s climate from anywhere.
• Automate Appliances for Convenience:
  Schedule appliances to run when it’s most convenient or cost-effective—like starting your dryer during off-peak hours to lower your utility bills. Some devices can sync with your location, so dinner is ready as you arrive home.
• Monitor and Manage Energy Use:
  Smart energy monitors track your home’s power consumption and provide insights and tips to help you save. Upgrading to smart breakers adds another layer of safety and convenience.
• Efficient Lighting:
  Dimmable smart LED bulbs last longer, use less energy, and offer customizable color and brightness—all controllable from your phone or voice assistant.
• Water Conservation:
  Attach smart water sensors to your pipes to track usage, get leak alerts, and even shut off the water automatically if a problem is detected.
• Seal in Efficiency:
  Door and window sensors let you know if something’s left open and can automatically adjust your heating or cooling to prevent energy waste.

With these tools, automating your home appliances will help you save money, protect your home, and live more efficiently.

Learn about our smart home discounts

Smart homes are “smart” for many reasons. Of course, you’ll likely find more peace of mind once your smart home security system is up and running. But if you do it right, you may be able to score a smart home discount on your homeowners coverage, too.

So, be sure to talk to your American Family Insurance agent about qualifying for discounts. And remember to check out our homeowner coverages to learn about all the ways we can help safeguard what matters most to you and your family.

This article is for informational purposes only and includes information widely available through different sources. This article does not afford, offer, or guarantee any coverage.

Discount, savings and product eligibility varies based on the way you purchase insurance, by state, property type and policy form. Discounts may not apply to all coverages on an auto or home policy. Discounts do not apply to life policies. Exclusions may apply.

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.