HOME Automation Technology Has Come a Long Way in Recent Years, Making It Easier than ever to Control Various Aspects of Your Home from Your Smartphone or Tablet
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Whether you want to improve your home’s energy efficiency, enhance your security, or simply make your daily routine more convenient, there’s a home automation solution that can help. Here are some of the best home automation technologies to upgrade your home:
Smart Thermostats Smart thermostats are a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and save money on your utility bills. These thermostats can learn your temperature preferences and adjust your heating and cooling system accordingly, so you’re always comfortable while minimizing energy waste.
Automation technologies. Source: Canva
Smart Lighting Smart lighting systems allow you to control your home’s lighting from your smartphone or tablet. You can turn lights on and off, adjust the brightness, and even change the color of the lights to create different moods and ambiance.
Smart Security Systems Smart security systems provide an extra layer of protection for your home. You can monitor your home remotely, receive alerts when someone enters your property, and even control your security cameras and door locks from your smartphone.
Robot Vacuum Cleaners Robot vacuum cleaners are a game-changer for anyone who hates vacuuming. These devices can automatically navigate your home, cleaning your floors and carpets as they go. Some models can even be controlled using your smartphone, so you can schedule cleanings and adjust settings from anywhere.
Smart Home Hubs Smart home hubs allow you to control multiple home automation devices from a single app. This makes it easier to manage your smart home technology and ensures that everything works seamlessly together.
Voice Assistants Voice assistants like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home can control your home automation devices using voice commands. This hands-free control makes it even more convenient to manage your home automation technology.
Smart Appliances Smart appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines can connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control them using your smartphone. This can help you save time and energy while making your daily routine more convenient.
Automation technologies. Source: Canva
Home automation technology can help you save time, energy, and money while enhancing your comfort and convenience at home. Consider adding one or more of these home automation solutions to your home to take your living space to the next level.
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Between June 25 and July 1, 2021, Metro Vancouver experienced a heat dome event, resulting in the tragic loss of over 600 lives, primarily among vulnerable seniors residing in uncooled environments.
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Metro Vancouver faces an unprecedented heatwave and urges the provision of portable air conditioners for vulnerable residents.
Here are key insights about air conditioning in Metro Vancouver:
Substantial Subsidies for Heat Pump AC Systems Both federal and provincial governments aim to reduce carbon emissions by transitioning from gas-burning heaters and coolers to electric-powered alternatives, supported by clean hydroelectricity in British Columbia. Homeowners installing heat pump systems, which also function as air conditioners, can benefit from substantial rebates. For instance, a $15,000 heat pump installation in Vancouver in 2022 could yield $6,000 from BC Hydro, $4,000 from the City of Vancouver, and $5,000 from the federal government. However, as of May 2023, the City of Vancouver has suspended its rebate program due to high demand.
Mandatory Air Conditioning in New Multi-Family Homes Commencing in 2025, the City of Vancouver mandates the inclusion of mechanical air cooling equipment in all new multi-family homes.
Ban on Non-Heat Pump AC Systems Starting from January 1, 2023, newly installed air-conditioning systems in existing detached homes must be electricity-powered, providing low-carbon heating and cooling. Additionally, home renovation projects exceeding $250,000 require the electrification of space heating and hot water systems.
Increased Demand Strains B.C. Hydro’s Electric Network B.C. Hydro witnessed a record-breaking peak hourly demand in May, driven partly by the surge in air conditioner usage. As the adoption of heat pump air conditioners and electric vehicles grows, B.C. Hydro anticipates heightened pressure on its electric grid. The power generated by the Site C dam is expected to accommodate the increased demand, bolstering B.C. Hydro’s revenue.
Alternative Cooling Strategies While air conditioners provide immediate relief, there are additional ways to keep homes cool. These include closing drapes and blinds, maintaining closed doors and windows when the outside temperature is higher, and utilizing fans. Furthermore, experts recommend lighter-colored building materials and external shading to reduce heat absorption. Talius Habitat Screens, an innovative B.C. company, offers external blinds that effectively intercept solar energy before it reaches windows, surpassing the limitations of indoor blinds.
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As Metro Vancouver grapples with an unusual and intense late-spring warm-up, setting new temperature records, experts highlight the urgent need for adaptation to a hotter future. To mitigate the impacts of extreme heat, air-conditioned spaces have become crucial.
Efforts to combat the heat and ensure residents’ comfort require a multifaceted approach that encompasses advanced cooling technologies, sustainable urban planning, and individual conservation strategies.
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