What exactly does the term smart home technology stand for?

"For a better quality of life and living, by networking various household and entertainment devices. The term orchestration is apt, as the technology enables devices that would otherwise work independently of each other to enter into a dialog. Example: You are vacuuming and the doorbell rings. In a smart home, the vacuum cleaner could be switched off automatically and a loud ding-dong could also be heard over the loudspeaker."

How do I find the right system for me?

"A smart home should be fun and make your everyday life easier. It's best to write down what you want in essay form: When I come home, I would like the temperature in the house to be exactly 21 degrees, I would like to be greeted by classical music, and if I have to go to the toilet at night, I would like the way there to be lit automatically ... Once you have written everything down, you can take it to a specialist. They will then know which devices you need."

What are the benefits of a home with smart home technology?

"Not only does it improve your quality of life, it also has a positive effect on your health: Precisely controlling the room temperature with radiator thermostats prevents mold growth. Then there's the security aspect: door and window contacts can be used as alarm contacts. Elderly people who live alone can use smart home technology that recognizes when they have fallen. And escape routes can be opened automatically in the event of a fire."

What about security?

"There is currently no threat, as smart homes are not - yet - a business model for criminals. You can't tell from the outside whether a front door has a digital lock. A smart home does not necessarily have to be connected to the internet via a router, which could be used to manipulate it. Very important: keep an eye on the issue. Set secure passwords for the devices and always update the operating software."