If you’ve lived in your house for a while, it might be time to level up some of your home’s technology that’s become antiquated. Some minor tweaks can make your home feel more livable, and many of these upgrades cost less to operate than their outdated counterparts. If you’re wondering where to start, here are a few things in your home to update that won’t break the bank.
Phone Service
You no longer need to be tied to one of the pricey phone or cable providers in order to have a telephone line in your home. With just a small investment in equipment, you can get free home phone service over your high-speed internet that may include many of the standard features you’re used to such as caller ID, call waiting, voicemail, and more. These services often let you maintain your current phone number, so switching doesn’t mean you’ll have to update all of your existing contacts.
Lighting
If you haven’t replaced your household bulbs with LED ones, there’s no time like the present. Over the past several years, the cost of LED lighting has been decreasing due to improved manufacturing, so it’s become more affordable than ever to switch over. Compared to incandescent lighting, LEDs use at least 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer, making them a great investment that can save you money and benefit the environment. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that LED bulbs only emit harsh, white light; they come in many colors, and some can even be programmed to adjust throughout the day.
Smart Systems
Smart speakers, smart thermostats, smart plugs: there is a seemingly endless array of ways in which your home can be programmed to run itself. Although installing all of these options at once might be costly, most home automation systems allow you to start with one or two basic devices and then add more gadgets at a later time. Perhaps start with a hub that will let you manage basic household tasks like remotely turning on your lights or locking your front door, then build from there.
Making just one or two of these changes can give your house an instant tech upgrade without putting too much pressure on your pocketbook. You’ll likely find that your home is a more enjoyable space in which to spend time, and you might end up saving money in the long run.
