Smart home devices are quickly working their way into the homes of everyday people. The computer powered appliances, lights, thermostats, etc., promise convenience and reduced energy bills. Though with lots of options available, choosing your devices can be confusing. Here’s a list of the best smart home devices that you should consider installing in your home.

Smart Thermostats

Programmable thermostats help homeowners cut down on unneeded energy expenditure. The thermostats allow for preset times to run your heat or air conditioner, depending on when you’ll be home.

For example, you can preset your thermostat to turn off every morning around the time you leave for work, and on right before you get home. Using a programmable thermostat helps you save energy that would otherwise heat or cool your home when no one is around to enjoy it.

In fact, it’s estimated that you can save up to 10 percent on your heating and cooling expenses just by installing a smart thermostat.

Smart Lights

People frequently forget to turn the lights off before they leave, and smart lighting systems are here to help. Smart lights are controlled through a smartphone app, so you can control your lights without physically touching the switch. Other smart lights also come with additional features, such as motion sensors or the ability to schedule when lights turn on and off.

Other smart lights even change colors depending on what activity you’re doing. For example, the Phillips Hue system lets you select whether you want to relax, energize, concentrate, or do some other type of activity. The app then adjusts the room lighting based on your selection.

It might seem gimmicky, but it’s not. Colored lighting can affect moods or make certain activities more enjoyable. Red lighting, for instance, sets a romantic mood, while blue lighting is ideal for watching TV.

Smart Plugs

Even the plugs in your walls can get a little smarter with today’s technology. The devices plug into your electrical outlets, and your devices plug into the smart plugs. Smart plugs are controlled remotely, and once again, can be scheduled to turn on and off at certain times. This allows you to save energy by making sure your appliances are always off.

For example, if you leave for work and forget to turn off the TV, you can switch it off remotely by using your smartphone to control the smart plug.  If you’re hesitant to try smart devices, smart plugs make good starter devices because they’re easy to use and install.

Smart Security Systems

There’s no better way to keep an eye on your home while you’re away than with a smart home security system. There are many different security systems on the market, but the best systems allow access to a live feed of what’s going on inside your home, directly from your smartphone.

You can even opt to receive mobile alerts if the security system detects something unusual. More advanced security systems also control your locks and allow unlocking and locking of your doors through a smartphone app. If you have a smart security system in your house, you’ll never worry about protecting your home or family again.

With these smart home devices, you can both modernize, and take control of your energy costs. Smart home devices are the future, and the future is now.