Integrators should search for a simple to use thermostat that can easily replace an existing unit and then tie into the system.  Manufacturers offer 30A wireless load control modules for control of water heaters, pool pumps, outdoor fountains, lighting and more. Many also offer a 5A wireless load control module to control low voltage circuits in air conditioning units, pool and spa heaters or pumps, generators, and more. 

Simply wire the energy device to the load control module, and it wirelessly communicates back to the home automation control system, maintaining constant contact. There are plug-in modules available that are perfect for controlling small appliances, fans, and lamps.

All of these energy-consuming devices can be automated to turn off (or on) automatically when the security system is activated, immediately resulting in reduced energy expenses. The devices can be timed and activated only when necessary.  Additionally, all of these devices can now be monitored and controlled from a smartphone.

Bluetooth Upgrade Options
Client isn’t interested in saving money but you would still like to offer another wireless upgrade option?  How about entertainment? Yes, this is an area where security dealers have historically avoided. But
systems are becoming easier to install in new construction or retrofit, thanks to Bluetooth now being incorporated into distributed audio systems. 

There are several quick-to-install distributed audio systems available now, which can be used stand-alone or tied into a home control system. The Bluetooth option means that a distributed audio system doesn’t necessarily need to be wired to a media server or even a receiver or DVD changer. Now, the installer simply uses Cat5 to wire from the audio system’s main board to a remote input module.

The remote input modules can be placed around the house and allow for audio devices to be plugged in or connected wirelessly. The newest remote input modules can detect music from a cellphone or tablet, utilizing the in-wall speakers as if they were a pair of Bluetooth headphones. This means the homeowner will never call you to update (or find) music on their server, because they can simply select whatever music they want to hear from Rhapsody, iTunes, YouTube, Pandora, etc, and manage their own streaming or stored tunes. They can even use the same tablet or smartphone to control volume levels, adjust the audio source, or pause the music.

The in-wall speakers aren’t just for entertainment, either. They can be used to make announcements throughout the home and are especially helpful during an emergency. Simple A/V control is made possible using IR repeaters, allowing homeowners to control all of their audio/video equipment from a single iPad. 

Security Within Small Commercial Buildings
The previous examples have centered mostly on residential buildings, but all of these products can also be used in small commercial settings as well with similar benefits. There’s a solution that has been built between the monster expensive building management systems and the residential automation systems. More residential security dealers are exploring automation equipment inside doctor’s offices, restaurants, and even farms to reduce energy expenses and give the facility manager or building owner 24/7 access.

Restaurants gain the ability to automatically turn off all A/V equipment when they activate the alarm at night, jewelers get access control and surveillance feeds, and dentist’s offices opt for the distributed audio to ease their patients. Most equipment that is rated for residential estates with five figure square footages can of course be implemented into small commercial as well.

As homeowners become more aware of the benefits of implementing home technology, security dealers can leverage their expertise and make more money on each installation. So, what are the next steps to determine if your clients might appreciate an upgrade option, if they haven’t already been asking? Use the resources that are readily available to you. Watch demonstration videos of individual products or whole homes on YouTube.

Take advantage of free home automation Webinars. Manufacturers set up training facilities in their headquarters for intensive hands-on courses or travel around the country providing basic training for the uninitiated. Go with a company that doesn’t lock you into proprietary equipment and values relationships with other manufacturers.

What you’re really after is a single system that can provide a proper solution for the majority of your installs, barring a few tweaks. The system should be modular and allow you to add access control, video surveillance, energy management, and entertainment control. Explore the many product options and realize that the proliferation of wireless home devices and mobile devices like smartphones and tablets makes installation easier than ever before. Now is the time for security dealers to install home automation.

Greg Rhoades is Associate Director of Marketing for New Orleans-based Home Automation Inc. (HAI). He can be contacted at [email protected].

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