Page 17 - November 2015 Green Builder Magazine
P. 17
1. Smart Appliances. The washer and dryer can coordinate the timing of loads, and the
refrigerator can turn the compressor off during periods of peak energy demand.
2. Leak Detection. Sensors located under sinks and other areas that are vulnerable to leaky
pipes can detect the presence of water or increased humidity and alert you via text or
email.
3. Controlled Lighting. Dimmable LED lights adjust to ambient light levels, and they can
sense whether a room is occupied.
4. Scene Setting. Software platforms allow coordination among wireless devices. You can
create scenes that trigger a series of actions; for example, when the front door opens, an
entry light switches on and music begins to play.
5. Optimal Charging. A connected EV charger can suspend charging
when electricity demand is high. EV batteries can serve as backup power
when the grid is down.
6. Climate Control. A smart thermostat learns your behavior and adjusts
indoor temperatures accordingly.
7. Home Security. You can monitor your wireless residential security
system from afar, and your system can send you captured video images.
8. Sun Tracking. A connected solar PV
array allows you to monitor your system
and find out how much energy is being
used or generated in real time.
9. Safety Signals. Smart smoke and
carbon dioxide detectors don’t just
sound alarms; they will also direct you
to safety.
10. Smart Shading. Blinds automatically
raise and lower to take advantage of
natural lighting and keep the house
warm at night.
11. Energy Strategy. Home energy
management systems give you
feedback and tips about your energy
usage, so you can adjust behavior
accordingly.
12. Wise Watering. A wireless irrigation
controller can adjust the watering
schedule based on soil moisture and
the weather forecast, and can be
controlled by a tablet or smartphone.
13. Flexible Tools. Power tools batteries
can charge wirelessly, even while
they’re being used.
14. Keyless Entry. Smart locks allow you
to lock and unlock the door with either
a code or voice command, and you
can even monitor and control the lock
remotely with a smartphone.
Apple HomeKit
HomeKit home automation
software allows you to control
all of your home products via
interconnecting apps. You can
also set scenes, which direct
coordinated actions among
lighting, thermostats, shades,
locks, switches and plugs.
www.apple.com/ios/homekit