Page 20 - Fast Forward to a Sustainable Future

Originally published September 2016

Smart Security Can

Also Boost Efficiency

Let your clients know that new IOT-enabled security systems
can double as energy watchdogs.

HESE DAYS, SECURITY SYSTEMS can do more than
just signal when an intruder enters a building. Today’s
security systems can be integrated into other home
systems to provide energy savings.
“When thinking about using an alarm system, we
T often think about the system only being used for
burglar alarm capabilities,” says Tom Mechler, applications design
manager for Bosch. “However, while these systems are monitoring
doors or windows, why not use their capabilities for other things?”
By integrating with a smart home system, homeowners also can use CREDIT: BOSCH
the security system’s ability to monitor open doors and movement
to optimize other home systems, such as HVAC and lighting. For Integration. Bosch’s G100 Z-Wave Home Control Gateway can
example, because the security system monitors movement in the connect home and security systems.
home, a homeowner can program their smart home system to turn a prolonged period of time. As a security feature, it alerts homeowners
a light off 15 minutes after a person leaves a room. Or, if the home if there’s a security vulnerability. As an energy saver, it prevents
includes zone heating or cooling, the temperature can be adjusted unnecessary heating or cooling loss and high energy bills.
based on whether a person is in a room or not. Bosch B and G Series security systems also integrate with the
“Smart home systems are really expanding, especially as cost company’s surveillance cameras, which can email a video snapshot
begins to decrease and ease increases,” Mechler says. “There’s no to the user when security events occur. That way, an intruder can be
reason the alarm system can’t signal the smart home system through identified. In addition, Bosch’s video analytics capabilities can alert
normal integration.” a business or homeowner when someone leaves a room or enters
In addition, a security system can be used to inform homeowners an area in which they may not be permitted, or whether too many
about doors and windows that are left open—and for how long. Bosch people are in a building.
took this idea a step further and provides security system technology Bosch security systems also can monitor whether window glass
that alerts a home or business owner when a door has been opened for is broken, detect seismic activity and alert those inside the building
to high carbon monoxide levels.
To take these security and energy saving features a step further,
Bosch offers a Z-Wave Home Control Gateway that integrates with its
B and G Series security systems. Users can connect to Z-Wave devices
from their wireless devices to control and automate lighting, heating
and cooling. They can lock doors, turn on the security system, turn
off lights, adjust the thermostat, and turn sprinklers on or off from
their mobile device—whether they are inside the home or running
errands around town. If a door is unknowingly left unlocked, the
control panel will send the owner an email or text message alerting
them to the situation.
CREDIT: BOSCH ensure their safety and save on energy costs inside the home. They
Security systems like those offered by Bosch can help homeowners

Remote connectivity. Homeowners can connect their mobile device to can help homeowners develop more energy-efficient practices and
the Z-Wave Home Control Gateway to monitor their home remotely. avoid wasting energy—and spending too much on energy bills. n

20 FAST FORWARD TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE