The Smart Home is Now Pure Genius
Trends come and go, but one is here to stay and only getting stronger: the smart home. Smart home technology lets you control everything – including entertainment, lighting, security, and temperature -- from anywhere, at any time. Not only is it incredibly convenient, but it can also save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and improve the family’s health.
Top Hat’s network of top-tier experts is on the front lines of the smart home revolution. We spoke with one of them to discuss what smart home solutions are trending for Manhattan homeowners. There’s so much to share, so we’re breaking this into two parts. Our first blog in the series focuses on smart home solutions that are designed to boost overall wellness, both mentally and physically.
The Great Indoors
We spend as much as 90% of our time inside. So, it’s no surprise that one of the first places homeowners start their smart home transition is with lighting technology that mimics natural, outdoor light. These systems’ objective is to work with our Circadian rhythms. The Circadian rhythm is the 24-hour internal clock in our brain that regulates cycles of alertness and sleepiness by responding to light changes in our environment. When not properly aligned, it can negatively impact sleep, energy, and well-being.
One of Top Hat Home Service’s expert partners, Ernie Wohlleben of Architechnology Designs is installing many of these intelligent lighting systems. He works with companies such as Ketra lighting and Lutron controls that add blues during the day to mirror the cycle, light intensity, and color temperature of natural daylight. As the sun goes down, blues are gradually removed, giving signals to the body that it’s time to relax and prepare for sleep.
Casting Shade
Tired of going around the house opening and closing the shades? There’s an app for that! Lutron and other companies make motorized shades that are battery-powered and can be controlled from your phone or other device. Window treatments can also be pre-programmed to rise and fall depending on the time of day. If you have an elderly or technically challenged guest, the shades can also be operated manually.
Not only are these systems a time-saver, but they can also increase energy savings by maximizing natural light and extending the life of lightbulbs. Additionally, you might be eligible for rebates and incentives since the IRS has announced incentivizes for residential energy efficiencies. Here’s more information on home energy incentives coming our way in 2023.
Air and Water Purification
Ernie shared that the pandemic kick-started the demand for water and air purification systems, and it’s only taken off from there. New Yorkers are more aware of the need to reduce indoor contaminants to promote optimal cardiovascular, respiratory, and cognitive health.
Smart air and water purification systems decrease water bills and can lead to a longer life for appliances including washing machines, water heaters, dishwashers. They can also reduce deterioration of your plumbing and pipes. The systems can be monitored from a smart phone, tablet, or wall app, letting you know when it’s time to change a filter.
Our team is here to help upgrade and install systems that boost the intelligence of your home, saving time, money, and maximizing your family’s wellness. Next up, we’ll look at the latest in security and high-end, cutting-edge entertainment.
Gary Mindlin is co-founder and owner of Top Hat Home Services, a full-service property care and management company. Top Hat services homes in Manhattan and are known as experts in every aspect of building management, maintenance and repair, as well as renovation and construction supervision.