How can you set up your home’s automation system to provide value while you’re on vacation? Here are some basic ways.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on how to set up your home's automation system while you're on vacation. This is one of the areas where having a smart home is highly advantageous, as it allows you to maintain certain security or other measures while you're gone, and knowing how to set these up properly is important for this.
At AVI Systems, we're happy to offer a wide range of home automation products and services, from security and surveillance systems to home lighting, audio and video, and numerous others. What are some other tips we offer to clients on setting up their system before they head out on vacation? Here are several.
Controlling Your Lights
<img alt="aerial view of home blueprint showing which rooms have lights on" height="400" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_avi/VAUD23_Smart_Lighting.jpg" width="700" />
There are several scenarios where lights can and should still be used even when you're away from home. Perhaps you're looking to keep the lights on at night to mimic the presence of someone for security reasons, or maybe you have pets and need to leave a light on for them.
One option here is to use a light timer, which will automatically turn lights on and off at certain times that you set. This can make it look like someone is still home, even when they're not. You can also use your smartphone to control the lights while you're away. Many of our lighting products are compatible with popular home automation systems and can be controlled remotely.
If you have pets, another option is to install a pet door that opens and closes automatically. This way, your animal can come and go as they please without needing a human to be there to let them in or out.
Smart Speakers
<img alt="smart speaker on coffee table next to smartphone" height="400" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2022/CI_Blend-Smart-Technology-with-Home-Design_3.jpg" width="700" />
You may not think there's much use for smart speakers if no one is home, but these may actually serve a vital security purpose for some homeowners. If you have an Amazon Echo or Google Home, you can use these devices to call for help in the event of an emergency. Simply say "Alexa, call 911" or "OK, Google, call the police" and your smart speaker will place a call to emergency services.
In addition, many of today's smart speakers can actually listen for intruders and play a pre-recorded message to scare them off. This can be a great way to deter would-be burglars and add an extra layer of security to your home.
Smart Locks
<img alt="smartphone controlling a smart lock" height="400" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q2_2022/CI_How-Smart-Automation-Works-for-You_5.jpg" width="700" />
Finally, if your home utilizes smart locks, be sure to set these to "locked" before you leave. This will ensure that your home is secure while you're away and prevent anyone from breaking in. You can also set up automatic locking, which will lock the doors after a certain period of time has passed.
These are just a few of the many ways you can use home automation to keep your home secure while you're away on vacation. For more information on our products and services, or to get started setting up your system, contact AVI Systems today.

Home Automation and Vacations: Lights, Speakers, Locks 

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