The Home Automation Series: What is it?
Throughout the years on our blog, we have addressed various aspects about smart homes, but what if you are new to our site and aren’t familiar with what home automation is and what we mean by smart? Well…we can’t let that happen…so, here’s a little brush-up for those who are already familiar with it, but more so, this is for those of you who are curious about making the switch…to living a life more comfortable. Home Automation…it’s the only way to live if you want to live right!
What is Home Automation?
Home Automation, often referred to as “Smart Home Technology”, is the use of technology to automate your home. Home automation allows you to control almost every aspect of your home through the Internet.
Some think Home Automation first originated with the invention of the Thermostat, but one thing is for sure…we have advanced light years since then. In fact, it has now evolved into one of the speediest and largest growing markets in technology. You can use it to control practically anything: appliances, lighting, TVs, security, energy consumption, and because the controls are so easy to use, you can even use it as a personal assistant.
In our home automation series, you will learn everything you need to know about the basics of Home Automation: how it works, how to safely use it, as well as what you can control with it.
How Does Home Automation Work?
It is hard to explain the inner-workings of Home-Automation because there isn’t just one way to automate a home. The technology varies from country, company, and type of automation. In a nutshell, Home Automation relies heavily on modern, wireless technology that broadcasts an Internet signal. Even though there are new Apps out there that promote “home automation,” the best way to truly automate your home is through a reputable company that specializes in it. Simply put, the basic ingredients for home automation are electricity, radio waves and wireless technology, but if you want a truly automated home…you need to seek out a professional to do it.
Control: The number one benefit of a control system is in the name. With a Home-Automation Control System, you will be able to truly control everything in your home through a wall mounted terminal, but it can also be accessed via a remote control device, smartphone, tablet or computer which makes it incredibly convenient as well.
Efficient & Reliable: There are Apps out there that are “smart” compatible. And yes, while these Apps are good at what they automate, you’re surely not going to be able to control everything with just one App. In fact, if you tried to cut corners and achieve the same result as one would with an installed control system, you’d find yourself having to keep up with a plethora of Apps just to resemble half of what you’d get with a control system. For instance, one App promises to help with your security, another App controls your Thermostat, then there’s an App for your lighting and the long list goes on. In other words, Apps-based “home automation” is not a one-stop-shop solution. With a professional, home automation control system, you will have only one system to deal with. It will control everything: your lights, thermostat, sprinklers, phone, washer, dryer and so much more.
Beneficial: You can access all the different aspects of your home from one convent system. Everything from your shower to your home-security network can all be controlled via one central system. Whatever your needs, now is the time to be involved with home automation because finally, home automation is within reach for those consumers who wish to create a smart, intuitive home.
Is Home Automation Safe?
There is no technology available that’s 100% foolproof, so Home-Automation is no different. New technology is created every day, and with it comes excitement. However, we can’t help but feel a little vulnerable as well. We wonder things like, “What if our privacy is comprised?” or “What if the technology fails?” Here are some things to keep in mind when investing in Home Automation.
Privacy: When it comes to using Apps-based Home Automation, you really must question if companies are collecting information about you. For example, if you ask Alexa how to fix a refrigerator, don’t be surprised if the next time you surf the web you see a bunch of refrigerator ads. Yeah…that’s not a coincidence. The fact of the matter is…if you choose to take a shortcut on the road to home automation, you’re going to get what you pay for. However, the good news is that with Custom Audio Video’s help, you won’t have to worry about that.
Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is a very important issue that many people do not take seriously enough. As a consumer, you need to know how to protect yourself. The first step to doing so is to stay informed. Network security is another vital part of keeping your Smart Home cyber safe. Start with password encryption, which is the most important part of network security. You should use strong passwords, and change them often.
Interested in learning more about Home Automation? Keep an eye out for our next blogs in the Home Automation Series: “What Are 10 Things to You Can Do with It?” and “What Makes It Smart?”
Sometimes…Less Costs You More
We wanted to share a common problem that we’ve seen some home owners face. Regardless of whether someone is in the process of building a new home or wanting to upgrade something within their existing home, some people just don’t give enough thought as to whom they are hiring. Even worse, they focus on the price more than the end-result which ends up costing them a whole lot more in the process. The old saying rings true here… “You get what you pay for”. In other words, we see potential clients choosing to focus on the price rather than the performance, and in the end, that ends up being a “lesson learned”. For an example, we would like to share an experience that a home owner faced as well as the “lesson” that they learned from that said situation.
Firstly, they are now…our client. At first, though, the home owner sought out multiple quotes which is an appropriate thing to do. We remember that they wanted to wire their home for network as well as for DirecTV. Well, after getting a few bids, the client made their choice and ended up choosing the cheapest bid that they were offered. Simply put, they thought that that would be it.
Quickly thereafter, the AV company wired their home (which at first glance, sounds rather efficient). However, much sooner than later, the homeowner began noticing problems with their system. First, the network did not provide adequate coverage throughout their home. Portions of the house would sometimes have Internet and sometimes would not. Then, they went into their attic and noticed that wiring was strewn about the space, making it quite dangerous to walk around without tripping. Furthermore, it limited their usual storage space. More issues surfaced.
The DirecTV system would not work consistently in some of the rooms that they used on a regular basis. For instance, within the main living area, the unit would require a “reset” almost daily, in order to function at all. Frequently, the system simply wouldn’t load. When the homeowner opened the cabinet, in which the equipment for the living room system was in, they found a massive, state of disarray. Long loops of wiring encircled the equipment. Everything valuable had been pushed to the back. In fact, the cabinet doors would no longer fully close due to the way the equipment was placed. What’s even more ridiculous is that the system wouldn’t even work unless the cabinet doors where left slightly open. The customer quickly learned that the pile of remotes, that the AV company left for them to use, couldn’t even communicate through the closed cabinet doors properly. This is no way to do business!
Sad but true, the network equipment began to suffer the same afflictions as the living room system. The client found that they lost valuable space within the desk of their study due to that vast array of wiring as well. Within that desk as well, they found bulky equipment too that prevented the desk cabinet door from closing similarly to the one in the living room. Needless to say but the wiring and equipment was so deeply wedged between the wall and the back of the desk that the desk itself stood out from the wall awkwardly.
Obviously, due to the lack in satisfaction, the client had the AV company return multiple times in order to correct the issues that they began. More so, their visits resembled a long trail of band-aid fixes. For instance, it took 24 hours to resolve the Direct TV drop out issue, the client had to pay the AV company multiple times to organize the mess of wires which they never ended up doing satisfactorily and a solution to the “opening of the cabinet” issue was never found. Having spent so much on additional service calls that never resolved the constant problems, the client eventually became fed up with the additional costs and the sub-par product. They hired Custom Audio Video as their new AV Contractor, and we got to work to fixing all the mistakes.
Since the client now wanted to convert a part of their attic into a sitting room, we began with the issue of the attic wiring first. We removed the excess cabling and installed a technology panel which enabled us to not only organize the wiring, but it added additional functionality as well. Also, we were able to remove the low-quality ethernet to power line converters that the first AV company installed throughout the house (as well the coaxial adapters, which were used for distributing high speed Ethernet throughout the house). We then moved the networking equipment out of the client’s office desk and placed it within the technology panel, thereby providing them with a new, sleek, functional space to now use without distraction. We also installed high speed ethernet lines and enterprise grade wireless networking equipment from Ubiquiti Networks that gave the client reliable and seamless coverage throughout the home and in the gathering areas outside. Besides being more esthetically pleasing, the technology panel gave the client a simple location to go to if they needed to reset the Internet after a storm. Speaking of which, we also added an intelligent surge protector to the panel which continuously monitors the Internet, modem, the router, network switches and wireless access points to keep everything running more smoothly. That way should a device lock up or the Internet stop working, the surge protector will power cycle the device automatically, making it unnecessary for the client to even have to reset the equipment manually.
Of course, we had to clean up the Direct TV. At first, there were 4 Direct TV boxes in the house, and there were a dozen splitters strung around the house which weakened the signal. Once we cleared out the splitters and properly connected the wiring, we found that the signal was not even being powered correctly. That meant that, for the entire time that the clients had been suffering with system dropouts, the cause came from the original installers not installing a simple power unit for the signal coming in from the dish! Finally, we reprogrammed the universal remotes, that the client had been struggling with. Gone were the days of punching multiple buttons and scrolling through multiple pages…just to watch tv. Not only were the remotes now easier to use, they worked with the cabinet doors closed!
Looking back, the client suffered for multiple years with a poorly implemented system that, simply, did not work the way that it should. In the end, they paid almost 4 times the cost, which ended up costing a lot more in frustration. Why suffer the same frustration and pain, just to save a buck up front when you can have it done correctly (and cheaper) with a quality-ensured AV Contractor?
At Custom Audio Video…we guarantee to get the job done right!
Using Smart Devices Safely and Securely
The term “Smart” is being applied to just about everything these days. Cameras, thermostats, TVs, lights…heck, even your refrigerator can come with a Smart Monitor. However, not all “Smart” devices are created equal. For instance, let’s talk about the technology we see in the local big box stores or home improvement centers for a minute. You see, what most people don’t realize is that the smart devices, that they sell at these stores, are specifically made for the average Joe Do-it-Yourselfer to install. With that said, because these devices communicate with the “cloud”, in today’s world where headlines containing “Data Breach” and “System Hacked” are being used, some customers are beginning to grow skeptical about the safety associated with Smart devices.
In October 2016, you may or may not remember that a huge portion of the Internet was interrupted. Companies like CNN and Netflix had services interrupted due to a technological attack. This was due to infected devices such as web enabled cameras and digital video recorders that were NOT installed, secured or maintained by AV professionals. At another point, earlier in the year, a South Carolina mother discovered that someone had hacked her DIY “Smart” baby monitor camera and was using it to watch as she breastfed her child. Now, these are just two examples of what has already happened with these over-the-counter Do-it-Yourself Smart Home devices, but if you research it, it’s becoming quite a spiraling trend.
Unfortunately, most DIY users are looking for a quick, cheap way to make something smart within their home, and they don’t understand that there are multiple variables necessary in order to ensure that something “Smart” is also safe and secure. Also, most DIY users don’t know how to keep up with Firmware and Operating System Patches that are released to fix vulnerabilities as they are found. You see, hackers punch holes into weak points of a system, so it is necessary to keep up to date with patches and use hard to guess passwords to help prevent attacks.
Another point of contention is that these over-the-counter DIY smart devices rely on the “cloud” to operate data. Using the “cloud” just adds another point of possible attack as well as threatens to compromise your privacy. For instance, cameras store its video and photos with a “cloud” server because its free space. However, a hacker can compromise this server and can gain access to private footage. Furthermore, if hacked, the server may then become useless, or even worse…a weapon to be used against you. Imagine being held hostage from operating your thermostat because of a “cloud” service being hacked!
So, the question now arises, how does one transition into the world of “Smart”, minimize their risk at the same time? For starters, work with a reputable Smart Home Automation Company like Custom Audio Video. We will ensure that your Smart devices are not only installed right, but they will be installed smart. Also, rather than choosing to buy something over the counter, use a self-contained, reliable device made by a secure company, such as Crestron or Lutron. Because these devices do not rely on cloud servers, like the over-the-counter ones, your security is less likely to be compromised. Furthermore, a properly designed network will also help deter and/or prevent infiltration when you access your devices away from home. It is important to properly configure the system to make sure that the equipment is up to date with current security patches. Finally…don’t make your home “Smart”….make it brilliant!
Custom Audio Video
“We Have Smart Devices, and We Know How to Install them Smart!”
Outdoor Music with the Sonance Landscape System Series
Invisible, knock-your-socks-off outdoor music… that won’t upset the neighbors!
Every year, we get a ton of calls and questions about outdoor entertainment sound system setups. Regardless of the question that they are asking, each customer had at least two concerns in common: “Will my speakers be so good that my neighbors complain?” and “Are the speakers esthetically pleasing?” The fact of the matter is…regardless of whether you have a privacy fence or not, you still have neighbors, so we understand that keeping your music contained is more than a priority…it is a necessity. And hey…just because you want awesome speakers doesn’t mean that you’re prepared to sacrifice the beauty of your backyard, right? Well, of course not, so Custom Audio Video has something that’s just right for you:
With the Sonance Landscaping System Series, these two concerns won’t be an issue. That’s right, you can have it all…a totally scalable outdoor entertainment and speaker system that’s not only crazy good for the money, it will also be esthetically pleasing and won’t upset the neighbors!
Designed to be Scalable
Unlike some other systems, the 70 volt / 100 volt Sonance system uses a daisy-chain configuration. This means that the system can be configured to fit any size back yard, no matter how large or small. Thinking of moving in the future? Should you ever want move your “backyard” to another location, reconfiguring it to suit your new location will be easy. That’s right, you can take the system with you, extend the cable, and add as many speakers you now need to your new and improved location. As of matter of fact, give us a call and we’ll uninstall it at your current location, reconfigure it in your new location, provide you with upgraded speakers if you need them and have you enjoying your outdoor music again in no time.
Built to Handle Extremes
Sonance Landscape Series were designed to operate under the most extreme weather conditions, from -20˚ to 190˚ F (-29˚ to 88˚ C). Triple-sealed enclosures, waterproof connectors and marine grade components ensures SLS will stand up to the harshest elements Mother Nature dishes up, including surf, sun, sand and snow. It is this quality and durability that will guarantee years of reliable entertainment.
Disappear into the Surroundings
Sonance Landscape Series satellite speakers are constructed from a dark brown composite that won’t corrode or flake over time and is easily camouflaged amongst plants and foliage. The all-weather design ensures years of reliable service, while the color-molded construction resists chipping and scratches, even if accidently hit with garden tools. Once installed, it is virtually invisible, with the satellite speakers and subwoofer hidden out of sight. Like magic, high fidelity sound will radiate from under your plants and foliage, creating a space that sounds as good as it looks.
Underground Bass…did the Earth Move, or was that Just us?
Sonance Landscape Series subwoofers feature a below-ground design that keeps the cabinet out-of-sight. The only visible sign is the brown metal canopy that is discreetly hidden under plants or foliage. For courtyard applications, a Sonance hardscape subwoofer can be built into planter boxes or hidden under outdoor furniture, delivering the same big bass experience without having a negative visual impact.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is where Sonance really shines. Whether you want ambient background music or true, live rock concert sound, Sonance’s weatherproof satellite speakers are made to sound surprisingly close to what you would get with an indoor high-end Hi-Fi system.
Mounting Options
Crucial to the installation is speaker placement. Sonance outdoor speakers come with a number of mounting options and hardware. Ground stakes and surface mounts let you hide speakers in gardens, trees, gazebos and so forth. Plus, Sonance’s all-weather design = no chipping or scratching, even if you hit it with the weed-whacker. Everything has that nice, solid, durable feel.
The Neighbors
Sonance’s triple-sealed speaker enclosures were built to take anything Mother Nature can dish up (surf, sun, sand, snow), and they do an excellent job of isolating sound only where you want it. So…what the neighbors don’t hear, won’t hurt them, and if 70s disco is your dirty little secret, no one has to know.
Strategic Design
For your project, we will strategically place satellite speakers and subwoofers around the perimeter of your yard, directing the sound towards all of your listening areas. The end effect? You will have full-bodied music pouring out from your gardens, planters and even from the trees above. An additional benefit during planning will ensure that your music is contained in the areas where you want it rather than spilling out into areas that would disturb the neighbors.
Want to Learn More?
Feel free to call us at 843-815-5130843-815-5130, email us at sales@customav.biz, or stop by our showroom at 48 Pennington Drive, Unit B inside Sheridan Park Bluffton.
Why wire a home for networking and internet?
With Today’s Plethora of Wireless Devices and Antennas, why would Anyone Want to Spend Money on Wiring their Home or Business?
On the surface, it may seem like a no brainer. Toss a wireless router on your modem and you’re home free. Unfortunately, things are a bit more complicated than that. Wireless has a limited range from its point of origin that loses strength the further you are from the source. Much like a flashlights light dissipates the further it travels outward. Wireless signals are also effected by building materials, appliances, furniture as well as other electronic devices. Even your neighbors wireless signal could degrade your wireless quality.
So why not Add More Wireless Antennas?
If you are still trying to avoid wiring anything you are going to use some form of repeater or extender. Even in a perfect world, most consumer units are going to lose speed due to the way they are designed. Basically, your computer would ask for a web page from the repeater which then has to ask the router. The router then provides the information back to the repeater which in turn gives it to your computer. This doubles the amount of work and generally halves the actual speed. Better “prosumer” or enterprise grade units will have an additional antenna specifically for communicating to the router while you communicate with the normal antenna. This helps greatly reduce the speed loss as it can handle the streams independently instead of taking turns.
What About Wiring the Additional Antennas?
This is going to be the best course of action for your wireless desires. Multiple wireless antennas that are properly configured will provide you with a more robust and stable networking experience. However, even the best wireless networks can succumb to interference. Everything may be well as you stream the latest episode of your favorite show until someone microwaves some popcorn. Or maybe you decide that you want to hang a mirror on the wall that is directly between you and the antenna and now you have slow speeds surfing the internet. Wireless is about convenience; the unfortunate issue is that it is not as fast nor as stable as hardwired connections.
So, what is the Best Path?
A mixture of hardwired antennas to provide coverage to your mobile devices while having physical wiring run to your stationary devices. Even items such as your AppleTV or Roku are better off using a physical connection than wireless for the stability. Even an extremely well designed wireless system can have external factors diminish or interrupt your wireless system from time to time. You will just have to remember that while wireless is getting better as time moves along, there are still going to be less than perfect situations that will affect your wireless system.
Outdoor Landscape Lighting with Lutron
Landscape lighting is a very functional necessity since you need it to light up your driveway and porches, but it can also make your Hilton Head/Bluffton home look even more beautiful and protect it all year long. While anyone can add a few lights to their front or backyard, it takes a professional to install landscape lighting that looks nice and also functions properly. Automate your outdoor lighting, and you’ll also make it super easy to control your lights any time of day or night. Read on to discover how we can brighten your outdoor spaces with lighting control.
Create a Welcoming, Elegant Home
The first part of your house neighbors or guests will see is your front exterior and facade. When your family and friends first begin to arrive for your party or reunion, set up your home, so it looks inviting and ready for them. What better way to make a good impression than to optimize your home’s beauty with strategically placed lighting? With various sconces and floodlights, you can create an array of selected lights to accentuate every angle of your house’s architecture. Set timers so that your lights come on right as the sun begins to set – and have lighting levels adjust as daylight diminishes into nighttime darkness. Use your smartphone, tablet, or remote just as you would with your indoor lighting control system. You can still control everything all from one source.
Your family and friends will love how much a little – or a lot – of lighting can do for your home’s visuals. And it’s all manageable with a push of a button.
Lutron Landscape Lighting allows you to install wall sconces and floodlights to optimize your property’s exteriors stylishly. Your guests can then arrive at your brightly lit home that looks prepared for the evening.
Entertaining Outdoors
There’s no need for your guests to stay cooped up inside when your patio and backyard can provide them with a warm glow even after the sun has set. You can set up lights all around your home’s patio and even by the pool and grill, so that every part of your backyard is accessible even in the dark. You can still utilize your pool, hot tub, and outdoor entertainment area well into the night. When the weather is great, you don’t have to let the sun’s absence keep you from throwing the best parties throughout your whole property.
Basic Lighting Recommendations: Install lights on the house and in the yard to provide ample light for you to see at night. You’ll want to brighten the front and back porches so that if you arrive home late you can easily see the lock and door knob. We can even add an occupancy sensor so that the lights automatically turn on as you walk up to the house.
Custom Audio Video can add small lights along the driveway so you can see where you’re going and visitors can easily access the intercom at the front gate. Place path lights along your walkways so you and your guests can safely and easily navigate the backyard.
Accent Lighting Recommendations: If you love to hang out outside and entertain, then creating a relaxing area for lounging is ideal. Set up a pergola surrounded by flowers and plants and place comfy chairs and tables for evening diner parties. Then pick a few decorative light fixtures to hang under the pergola as feature pieces. String mason jars with lights inside around the posts to give it a whimsical feel. Accent lighting can also highlight special areas of your property, like a fountain or garden.
Custom Audio Video can install it on the ground level pointing up, or install it up high, and direct it down to imitate moonlight.
Lighting for Security
With lit paths leading from the driveway all the way up to your front door, your friends won’t have to worry about tripping in the dark or fumbling with their car keys as they make their way to your house. Also, entrance lights at the front door provide safety and security as they let the neighborhood know someone is home. Outdoor lights will also provide peace of mind. Because you can easily check on your property, you will feel rest assured that no one is lurking around at night. Tying in your lights with the security system will add another layer of protection as well. If you’re heading out of town or even just out for a late evening – you want to guarantee that your property is safe and protected. Landscape lighting can ensure that your house will be secure at all times! With your lights set to turn on when the sun sets, you’ll have a well-lit home that appears to be occupied…even when the house is actually empty.
Custom Audio Video can install motion sensors to your lighting system. In case of a break-in, the alarm will sound, the police will be alerted and the lights will turn on.
Complete, Easy-to-use Control in Your Hands
The best part of your landscape lighting control system is that you can manage the entire thing from the palm of your hand. Using your smartphone, tablet, outdoor wall panel, or any other smart device of your choice – you can adjust the lighting, set dimmers and timers, or schedule the system to turn on at certain times.
You can even coordinate the different lights for special occasions, like birthday parties or romantic evenings with you partner. During the holidays, or even when you just want to change up the display, you can program scenes that show-off brighter lighting or adjust colors to be festive. If your guests arrive before the sun goes down, you can set your lights to automatically adjust to the lighting as it changes over the hours.
Custom Audio Video can place easy-to-use controls in your hands so that accessing your landscape lighting system is simple and effortless. We can create different areas of lighting, so that you can adjust a particular section of lights independently, depending on the entertaining needs of the night.
An Outdoor Entertainment Oasis with a Hidden TV
When a couple of longtime customers of Custom Audio Video called to ask if we could help with their outdoor entertainment setup, we couldn’t wait to get things moving. As we talked about what they wanted, there were a few requirements that presented some unique challenges:
For one, they wanted a big outdoor TV that was hidden when it wasn’t in use. They also wanted audio equipment that would supply an awesome party playlist, but not disrupt the overall look of their backyard, and of course, they wanted to be able to play in their new oasis at night (which means that they would also be needing some lighting).
After working together and discussing the right products for their needs, we ended up creating an outdoor entertainment setup that quickly became their at-home oasis.
Where oh where to hide a 65” TV…
At first, the most obvious place to install the TV was in front of the windows of the sunroom. However, this meant it would also block the view from the sunroom, so that didn’t work. We suggested recessing the TV into the roof structure.
Sound for every corner in the backyard
Music and TV audio was very important to our clients. While they wanted the entire outdoor space to be filled with sound, they didn’t want it to drown out conversations with friends and family.
They also wanted to maintain the look and feel of their beautifully landscaped yard, so big, in-your-face speakers weren’t going to work.
Blending in the speakers with the landscaping
With the customer’s needs in mind, we went with the Sonance Landscape System Series. They’re discreet and blend in with the environment. Two in-ground subwoofers were also installed to complement the satellites and provide the oomph most customers are looking for when listening to music.
In the covered sunroom, we installed two speakers up high near the roof line. This created a great sense of height to match the TV when watching their favorite football game.
Controlling the audio in different areas
Using Sonos for wireless audio, we created three listening “zones” so the homeowners could control the volume independently in each area. This way, the hubby could watch his favorite team on the field with his buddies, while the wife caught up with her friends by the pool. And when they’re ready to create the ultimate party experience, all speakers could be grouped together for even more powerful sound.
To make it easy to control all their new gear, we recommended a weather-resistant Universal Remote. With it, the homeowners could control all of the equipment located in the basement (aka “command center”) of the home.
Lights, camera, action!
The Lutron lighting system controls fixtures via a wireless remote, Lutron app, wall dimmers or keypads, and timed events. For the pantry and bathroom area of the outdoor oasis, we also installed occupancy sensors to automatically handle lighting control when someone enters or exits the space.
We also placed two low light security cameras by IC Real Time into the network for security. Since the cameras are part of the network, the clients can see what is happening anywhere in the oasis via their smartphones when they’re at home or away.
Protecting the investment
To prevent the setup from power surges and spikes, everything is protected by a Panamax BlueBOLT system. This also allows us to reboot components remotely when needed. Additionally, we used Transient Protection Design products to shield components from lightning strikes on the property, particularly via the speaker wires buried in the yard.
The ultimate outdoor entertainment setup
While this was a challenging project, it was a fun one to be involved with! Our client was thrilled with the results, and their outdoor oasis has quickly become the family’s new favorite gathering place.
Future Blogs featuring the products in this project:
Sonance Landscape System Series
Lutron Outdoor Lighting
Custom Audio Video: Outdoor Lighting Project Profile
With the Outdoor Paradise Project, we wanted to provide a mixture…elegant outdoor lighting to be used for friendly gatherings, functional lighting for every evening, curb appeal as well as simple usability.
We supplied controls for driveway and entry path landscape lighting so that our clients would be provided with safety when they arrived home at night. We didn’t want them to have to worry about stumbling around in the dark. We programmed the lighting to come on at sunset automatically, and to go off at our client’s preferred time. However, our clients did say that they would, on rare occasion, have to arrive later on in the evening, so they knew they needed something that they could easily change at the drop of a hat.
Entertaining Outdoors:
Our clients enjoy entertaining guests in the evening, so we installed lighting that was preset to portray an entertainment scene upon one of their walls at the back of the house. Now, with just a push of a button, they can set the outdoor lights for an elegant scene. Focal lighting on statues and a fountain are accessorized by dimmer lighting that illuminates the path to the gathering areas like the porch, patio and pool. Accompanying the path lighting, which allows guests to find their way to the back yard, we installed motion sensors that have the capability to detect guests entering into and from the outdoor restroom. We programmed the lights to flip on when motion is detected and shut down when unoccupied, therefore providing safety as well as lowering energy use.
Lighting to use for Security:
We provided a sensor that automatically detected when a vehicle would come up in the driveway. This was used to trigger the front lighting, such as when the clients arrived home, or after the normal lighting hours, so they could safely park and enter their home. We also used motion detectors, and we strategically placed them around their property, so that the lights would trigger whenever someone or something entered onto the property. This gave the clients the peace of mind that they were searching for. Now, when a strange noise is heard at night, they can quickly investigate it using their system. Lucky so far, it’s just simply been the neighborhood raccoons snooping around here and there for food.
Easy-to-use Controls:
We also worked with the clients to provide a range of settings that would turn the overhead fans of the porch on when the temperature and/or humidity reached a certain threshold, and we programmed them to shut back off when the temperature was more appealing. This allowed our clients to not worry about whether their guests were comfortable or not while entertaining them. Similar functionality was incorporated for day time gatherings and lowering screen style shades on the porch to prevent overheating from the low country sun while still allowing people to enjoy the beauty of the landscaping and the gentle breeze. The clients enjoy how easy it is to use their system, and we enjoy another satisfied customer.
Reasons to Hire an Integrator Early on for a Multi-Unit Project
Our lives have become increasingly more connected – from our cell phones to our cars to our homes. Our desire to stay connected with our environment has made automated amenities a necessity in today’s luxury housing units and upscale office buildings. These added bonuses make occupants’ lives easier, while creating an exclusive atmosphere of comfort and convenience.
As a developer, you know this, and most likely you are thinking of incorporating automation within your next multi-unit project. However, you may be wondering how you will successfully deliver superior results without going over budget. Regardless of whether you are about to build a multi-story high rise to be used as housing (such as a hotel, resort, condos, or an establishment for senior living) or whether it is a multi-level commercial office building, Custom Audio Video (CAV) has five reasons why you should choose to hire an integrator for your project. From design to installation, CAV can help.
Impress Potential Residents
Luxury buyers know exactly what they want in their next residence or office space. Thus, developers know that appealing to potential occupants is more than jaw-dropping views and private entrances but includes elite automation amenities as well. When new visitors imagine total control of their climate and entertainment from their smartphones, their emotional response will inspire them to act quickly to purchase space in your new building.
Create Automation That Will Last
Why wait until the walls are up before you include the integrators into the mix? One of the most important reasons to partner with an integrator early on is to ensure that, in the end, you have completed a high-quality project that won’t bog down the buyers in the future. Hiring an integrator early on means that your client(s) won’t have to face paying for an upgrade later on because all the necessary parts were accounted for from the start.
Shorten Your Construction Timeline
Tight timelines are common place in today’s market. It is crucial to alleviate any common stressors that could potentially cause your project to take longer and cost more. Countless times before, a builder will wait to include an integrator to their team after they have already started building, only to find that the designs that they are working from don’t adequately compliment automation. As a result, the construction timeline lengthens. Therefore, we recommended that you add an integrator to your team early on, while you are still in the initial stages of design. CAV will be happy to consult with you and discuss your network and project needs. We can ensure that your designs include all of the major components necessary, thereby guaranteeing a successful installation in a timely manner. Undoubtedly, adding CAV to your team, before you even start building, will not only decrease the overall construction time for your project to be completed, it will ensure that you are going to have everything done right the first time around.
Decrease Design and Installation Costs
With the design-build approach, communication is transparent as everyone strives to achieve a common goal. This team centered method not only reduces scoping and operational costs, but it can prevent change to the orders as well. Altering plans to a project will obviously be costly, add construction delays and cause undue stress to you, the builder.
Avoid Potential Pitfalls
An integration firm that is well-versed in every aspect of project design, electrical engineering and installation is mandatory. Even the best designed automation system throughout a commercial building or a residential dwelling unit can incur problems if not installed properly. Because our integrators at CAV are familiar with all the steps of the process, we can foresee and eliminate issues that traditional electricians may not have experienced.
Increase Customer Satisfaction
In the end, the success of your project is measured by the happiness of your occupants. Key card access, closed circuit surveillance and smart door locks help residents feel safe and secure. Furthermore, integrating video intercoms and alert systems will help owners and/or managers communicate freely with their clients and ensure that the best concierge service is provided.
If you are a developer working on your next project, consider hiring an integrator who can help bring continuity to your project from start to finish. For more information, contact CAV today.
Turning Your Empty Nest to a Party Fest
Well, your last born child has recently graduated, and even though it’s bitter sweet to witness, just the other day you watched them happily skip towards making a new life for themselves…a life where they don’t live at home anymore. Sure, that’s fabulous for them, but what about you? Where do you go from here, now that they are gone? Suddenly, the house is ridiculously quiet, you’ve got tons of spare time that you don’t know what to do with, and it’s been practically two decades since you’ve focused on yourself. So…now what? What do you do now with the rest of your life, and who are you these days anyways?
I know it’s tempting to view your home as an empty nest, but wouldn’t it better to view it as a place that could be a party fest? Okay, well, not exactly a party fest…let’s not get carried away (after all, there is still future school loans left to pay for), but there is nothing wrong with realizing that it’s now your time to enjoy your home in a new way…your way. Am I right? Of course I am. Here are some quick tips, tricks and add-on’s to make that nest of yours…seriously…life-changing:
Music:
You’ve got to have music playing throughout the entire house each day. That’s a must! Turning on Pandora and connecting it to your Sonos speakers will instantly take away the pain of solitude. Trust us, during this period in your life, silence is the devil, so save yourself by pressing a few, quick buttons and watch the magic happen. For some miraculous reason, music has a tendency to take a somber, lonely feeling and transform it into a “yeah, that’s right, this is where the fun is at” feeling. Love yourself enough to play music. Give Custom Audio Video a quick call and we can hook you up.
Lights:
Gone are the days that you have to remind someone to turn off the lights when they leave the room. Now, the lights are always off because your little baby is gone forever, and you are the only one left. Hey, don’t put yourself through that! Rather than walking into a room that’s dark and lonely, add a motion sensor near the entryway and have us rig the room lights to turn on as you enter. If you do this, every room you enter will automatically feel inviting and lively. It will also prevent you from being tempted to leave every room in the house on while you are at home alone. Motion sensors are also awesome because you won’t have to remind yourself to turn the lights off. Plus, something about having to flip a light switch on, within a dark room that use to always be lively, just reminds you that your baby is gone so you don’t need that. Call Custom Audio Video and schedule a walk-through appointment. We would be happy to give you a quote for what that would cost you.
Motorized Window Shades
Wouldn’t it be nice if you didn’t have to go around the whole house to open all the curtains? Sure it would. After all, if you are the only one home now, it will be up to you to allow the outside world in. Within the early phases of “the empty nest syndrome”, it is tempting to get wrapped up in your own thoughts and become stationary within one room of the house. In other words, unless you are adamant about pulling yourself out of this rut, your shades are going to stay drawn all day unless you get up and do it. Custom Audio Video can show you a way out of this torment by simply adding motorized shades to your windows. With just a touch of a button, that burden can be removed from your morning “to do” list. We can also show you how to put this task on a programmed timer.
Motorized Screens
Hey, we live in the South and the weather is most of the time downright perfect. The wind is usually blowing through the trees and the birds are happily chirping. So, why not stay positive and allow the outside world in? That’s right…the bugs. Well, Custom Audio Video has got you covered! We can install motorized wall screens that can fit almost any existing door structure. For example, let’s say you have French doors or pocket doors that lead to your back patio, but you rarely open them because you don’t want to deal with the bugs. Well, call us to come take a look, and we would be glad to figure out a way to install, tastefully, motorized screens that you can control with just a quick touch of a button. Trust me, there’s nothing better to cure those lonely blues than the sound of the birds chirping and the gentle breeze from the outside blowing in.
So… our basic regimen to eliminate the feeling of an empty nest is as follows:
- Play music that is quick and easy to turn on with high-quality speakers
- Install motion sensors that will automatically turn on lights when you enter a room
- Bring sunlight in easily with motorized window shades, set on a timer preferably
- Have motorized screens installed at your doorways leading to the outside
In a nutshell, it’s hard enough to let your babies fly the coup and start a new life of their own. Don’t make it hard on yourself. This should be a happy time in your life, too. It’s a chance for you to get to know who you are now…without them at home. Embrace this transition and give yourself the comforts that will make that possible. You are worth it!