Best ‘Smart Home’ Gadgets for 2017

As home inspectors, we’re always on the lookout for new technologies and devices that can improve both home security and home maintenance.

2017 is chalk full of incredible smart home devices that can keep you safe, make your energy consumption more efficient and help you save money. Most of these can be controlled by your smart phone.

Here are a few of our top picks for 2017:

Smart Home Self-Learning Thermostat with Wifi Controls

Is this artificial intelligence or just an incredibly good algorithm? Either way, this self-learning thermostat will turn up the heat when you normally want a little boost, while helping you save money on your Hydro bill. Feel a chill as you sit down to watch a movie with your family on a Saturday night? Reach for your cell phone and turn up the heat, without losing your spot on the couch! Next Saturday, you won’t have to think about it – the thermostat will remember you generally wind down and need it to be a little warmer at that time. The heating system make sure to give you an extra degree or so before you feel the chill.

We love the details in this little devil:

• Works with both forced air and radiant heating systems
• Senses who’s home and adjusts temperature accordingly
• Easily control online or from your smart phone via a WiFi connection

Bonus CO leak protection -The Nest Thermostat works with another product called Nest Protect (but you’ll have to double your budget). If Nest Protect detects dangerous carbon monoxide gas, it can tell the Nest Thermostat to turn off the furnace – a common source of CO leaks.

Cost: Between $200-300

Water Leak Sensor with iOS or Android Alert

Water leaks are the number one most common home insurance claim. Every year, millions of homeowners suffer financial loss from water damage. New smart water leak detection devices could mitigate the problem, or avoid it altogether.
There are a number of new water leak sensors on the market, that can be strategically placed strategically throughout your home near appliances, plumbing fixtures and pipe seams. Most work with a beep or an alert to your mobile device to let you know that something is amiss.

Older homes in Montreal might benefit from a few of these under outdated plumbing systems, before the problem is fixed for good.

About $50

Smart Home Wireless Electricity Monitor

What appliances in your home use the most electricity? You can keep tabs on all your appliances and usage with this electricity monitor.

• Free monitoring online
• Useful for both residential and commercial settings
• Find out how efficient your appliances really are.

About $200

Rachio Wifi Sprinkler Irrigation Control

You may not be thinking about watering the lawn now, but come spring, this nifty tool will come in handy. Wondering if the lawn needs a spray? This gadget uses local weather and humidity information to let you know when watering is needed. Now in its second generation, it works with Amazon Echo, meaning it can be voice controlled.

About $300

Schlage Sense Smart Home Deadbolt (iOs)

Need to keep access to your home or building block on rotation. This tool is just the thing. Talk to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to unlock the door. As the owner of this tool, you can assign up to 30 codes without any fees or subscriptions. Looks like it could be very useful, especially for those AirBnB rentals or if you own a triplex with a common front door.

About $300

All the above products are available in the Montreal area at popular home improvement centres.