Making Your Homestead Smarter

Oct 03, 2024, 01:50 PM

Invest in a High-Tech Homestead with These 6 Smart Upgrades

Homesteaders take pride in self-sufficiency, among other principles. While modern technology doesn't typically take center stage, it's integral to maximizing your property's potential. So, how can you take advantage of automation on your homestead? Here are six smart tech upgrades you should invest in if you are thinking of establishing a high-tech homestead for yourself and you loved ones.

1. Efficient Plugs – High-Tech Homestead

Use smart plugs around your home if you want to introduce smaller technology. These devices plug into your wall like usual but set themselves apart by letting you control appliances. Set timers for the various electronics in your house — such as lights — to ensure they turn on and off when you want. This feature can be advantageous for improving security and energy usage.

Imagine using smart plugs for every outlet in your house. You can turn devices on or off as you please, which can be handy when you accidentally leave something plugged in. For example, use your phone to turn off a hair straightener or a stovetop and reduce the fire risk. Smart plug installation is easy, requiring only a Wi-Fi connection and an outlet.

2. Security System – High-Tech Homestead

Families on homesteads typically choose remote settings for their homes. However, you still face security concerns from thieves, animals and other intruders. A basic surveillance system might not suffice because of outdated software and unencrypted data. Older devices typically have older software, thus making your information vulnerable to thieves.

Smart security systems save the day by letting you intervene with your phone when suspicious activity occurs. Then, you can respond by patrolling with your single-shot pistol and taking matters into your own hands. Smart security systems also aid safety by letting you talk through the camera to provide directions for the family or speak to intruders.

3. Smart Thermostat – High-Tech Homestead

Smart thermostats have become popular home additions because they control the temperature well. Hot and cold weather means constant HVAC use and increased utility bills. You can turn the system off when you're away from home, but the homestead will be uncomfortable when you return. Smart thermostats save the day with automated schedules.

One advantage of smart technology is controlling systems from your phone, considering most have a complementary app for remote use. You can turn the HVAC off when you leave and turn it back on once you head home. Experts say the average household spends $900 annually running the HVAC, so a smart thermostat could reduce bills.

4. Improved Driveway – High-Tech Homestead

When building a driveway, you should first consider the material. Asphalt and concrete are common choices, so determine which is best for your property. Concrete can withstand heavy loads better, making it a solid fit for homesteaders with large machines. You can then transform the driveway with smart technology and heightened security.

Some homesteaders have long driveways leading to their houses. If you're building one for your property, make it smart by adding cameras for heightened surveillance. This technology lets you monitor your home's entrance from afar and catch wind of intruders. These cameras send notifications to your phone when something comes near, making your homestead more secure.

Invest in a High-Tech Homestead with These 6 Smart Upgrades

5. Automated Lights – High-Tech Homestead

While cameras are a typical security solution, others are less obvious to potential thieves. For instance, intruders might not see automated lights when they tip-toe around your property. Once they come into view, the floodlights shine and thwart their plans. These smart lights are terrific for increasing nighttime visibility and protecting your property.

Like advanced cameras, automated lights only activate when they detect motion outside. Light sleepers may appreciate this feature because you don't want to wake up for a false alarm. These devices also reduce energy costs by incorporating LED technology. Modern automated lights shine brighter and consume less power than typical incandescent fixtures.

6. Garden Sensors – High-Tech Homestead

Gardening is essential to homesteading because you must know what crops grow in your climate and how to care for them. For example, garlic and onion grow well in damp areas and near river edges. How can you leverage smart technology to assist your garden? Modern devices serve as crop monitors, notifying you of progress and when you should intervene.

Remote sensors are one of the best gadgets you can buy for your garden. Place these devices in the soil, and you'll get plenty of data to see your plants' progression. The sensors tell you the temperature, soil fertility and other crucial factors influencing growth. Potatoes require soil temperature above 45 F, so your garden sensor tells you when to start planting.