How Home Automation & Sensors Provide Protection

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine, FL, boasts the title of the oldest city in the United States. While that title translates to numerous historical landmarks and architectural treasures, it also coincides with an aging and inadequate infrastructure. Because of this, the beautiful city is prone to flooding, whether from tropical storms or tidal surges.

So, you may wonder, what do environmental hazards and natural disasters have to do with home automation? 

An automated home uses sensors to detect changes in the environment. In addition to determining the changes in the temperature, lighting, and even the breaking of glass, they can also ascertain the changes in humidity, air quality, and CO2. Once detected, they send you emergency alerts, letting you know your home needs immediate attention.

Here, we'll explore how these sensors help protect you, your home, and your family while making life easier and more enjoyable.

SEE ALSO: Do You Know How Smart Home Security Works?

How a Smart Home Uses Sensors

Sensors are innovative devices that communicate with smart home devices and you. When they recognize a change in your environment, from reduced lighting to increased moisture, they ping your smartphone and activate connected systems.

For instance, they may lower the shades when darkness descends for privacy and protection while turning on lights in occupied rooms. Outdoor sensors track the sun's changing light, enabling your indoor lights to accurately reflect the outdoor surroundings, bringing a sense of natural light indoors. 

When strategically placed moisture sensors detect high levels, they alert you and shut off your intelligent water valve to protect your home from water damage. 

Flooding and the Use of Smart Sensors

In St. Augustine, low-lying areas, historic districts, and Davis Shores are prone to flooding. In these homes, smart sensors placed in vulnerable areas can detect increasing moisture levels in the surrounding air, alerting you long before damage occurs. 

Even in homes without flooding concerns, damage from leaking pipes is a reality for many. Some estimates suggest as many as 4 out of 10 homeowners have dealt with this issue. Because signs of a leak are often not visible until after damage occurs, this proactive measure alerts you in the early stages and automatically shuts off the water supply. This early detection can save significant money in the form of costly restorations and expensive repairs.

Other Types of Sensors for Your Smart Home

Some other types of commonly used sensors include: 

• Motion Sensors: These sensors detect movement and are used to alert you of a stranger or animal entering your property. They also automatically activate lights and turn them off when everyone leaves a room.
• Door and Window Sensors: As part of your security system, these devices alert you and monitoring professionals if a door or window is open, triggering an alert. 
• Air Quality Sensors: These sensors detect potential issues in air quality, from increasing CO2 to other environmental toxins such as formaldehyde or volatile organic compounds. When detected, your smart windows automatically open, improving ventilation. 

We've only scratched the surface of how smart sensors and home automation systems work together to create unrivaled peace of mind, security, and enhanced home environments. To learn more or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact Atlantic Security today.