Since 1977, Demers Glass has helped Arizona homeowners create comfortable, secure, and beautiful living environments. As home technology evolves, integrating smart home solutions can take your lifestyle to the next level. Whether you are new to automation or expanding an existing system, we have assembled this practical guide to 13 proven home automation ideas to help you create a smarter, easier life.

We preserved our original content while enhancing it with industry-leading insights, updated tools, and expert-backed tips. From smart lighting to leak detection, these suggestions are designed to provide convenience, save energy, and improve home safety—all with a glass-industry professional's customer-first approach.

1. Smart Lighting for Ambiance and Efficiency

Smart lighting gives you control over brightness, scheduling, and even color, all from your smartphone or voice assistant. Whether you are aiming for ambiance, security, or energy savings, smart lighting solutions can deliver real benefits.

Installing motion-activated lights in hallways or bathrooms can help prevent accidents at night. Set "wake-up" routines to simulate natural sunlight or use geofencing so lights automatically turn off when you leave the house. Smart dimmers, bulbs, and switches offer flexibility while helping reduce electricity costs.

Learn more about the value of smart lighting from Reolink.

2. Automated Climate Control

Smart thermostats like Ecobee and Nest adjust your HVAC system based on your schedule and preferences. They analyze when you're home, asleep, or away, optimizing temperature control and lowering energy bills.

An added advantage is integration with window sensors. For example, if a window is open, the system can turn off the AC to save energy. Some advanced thermostats also offer zoned climate control, allowing personalized temperatures in different rooms.

According to GenSecurity, homeowners can save up to 15% annually on heating and cooling using a smart thermostat.

Temperature control from a person's phone

3. Voice-Controlled Assistants

Virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are more than smart speakers. They serve as centralized control hubs for your entire smart home. You can issue voice commands to adjust lighting, lock doors, play music, or even turn on your fireplace.

These systems are especially beneficial for seniors and those with mobility issues. Voice control creates hands-free convenience while offering accessibility and increased independence.

Alfred Camera notes that voice assistants also add a layer of security. For example, you can use them to check if doors are locked or lights are off without leaving your seat.

4. Smart Locks and Entry Systems

Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys. You can unlock your door using a smartphone app, a keypad, or even biometrics. This is convenient for families, guests, or short-term rental properties.

Some locks can also integrate with video doorbells and cameras to provide two-way communication with visitors and real-time access control. You can receive alerts when someone enters and assign time-limited access to service providers.

Learn more about integrating smart locks with entry systems from SafeWise.

5. Home Surveillance Cameras

Security is a top priority, and smart surveillance systems provide 24/7 monitoring from anywhere in the world. Modern cameras offer features like motion detection, night vision, facial recognition, and two-way audio.

Install cameras at entry points, garages, or pool areas to keep an eye on activity. Cloud storage ensures footage is preserved even if the camera is damaged or stolen.

Smart cameras like Arlo or Ring can distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles, reducing false alerts. For more practical camera ideas, see GenSecurity.

6. Leak Detection Systems

Leaks from pipes, water heaters, or washing machines can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Smart leak sensors provide early warnings by sending alerts directly to your phone.

Some systems go a step further by automatically shutting off the water supply to prevent further damage. These systems are a must-have for vacation homes or homeowners who travel frequently.

Covenant Homes recommends placing sensors under sinks, near sump pumps, and around water heaters.

7. Smart Blinds and Curtains

Smart window treatments enhance comfort and energy efficiency. They can open and close based on the time of day, temperature, or sunlight levels. This feature helps reduce glare, protect furniture, and manage indoor climate.

Advanced models can integrate with weather forecasts or thermostats to optimize energy usage. They are particularly helpful for rooms with large glass windows or difficult-to-reach skylights.

For best results, combine them with energy-efficient window solutions.

8. Automated Garage Doors

A smart garage door opener allows you to monitor and control your garage remotely. If you forget to close it when leaving, the system can notify you or close it automatically.

You can also set it to open when you arrive home, using geofencing or voice commands. For multi-user households, access permissions can be customized.

This is an excellent upgrade for busy families or homeowners who receive frequent deliveries.

9. Smart Plugs and Power Strips

Not all appliances need to be replaced. Smart plugs can turn everyday items into smart devices. You can schedule on/off times, monitor power usage, or control appliances remotely.

These are particularly effective for energy-hungry electronics like coffee makers, fans, or lamps. You can also automate them as part of a larger routine.

Check out how smart plugs integrate with larger systems via IFTTT.

10. Whole-Home Automation Scenes

Smart home scenes group multiple actions into a single command. A "Goodnight" scene, for instance, might lock doors, turn off lights, adjust the thermostat, and arm your alarm system.

With platforms like SmartThings or Home Assistant, you can create sequences tailored to your daily routine. These systems support a wide range of devices and brands, offering true flexibility.

Reolink notes that scenes are a simple yet powerful way to streamline smart home interactions.

11. Smart Home Routines for Busy Families

Smart home routines go beyond automation scenes. They involve chains of customized events that simplify recurring tasks. For instance, a "Morning Routine" might gradually raise lights, start the coffee maker, and read you the weather forecast.

For families with children, routines help manage school mornings and bedtime transitions. These can also be adapted for individuals with accessibility needs.

SafeWise emphasizes how routines reduce stress and create structure in busy households.

Someone controlling their smart home from a tablet

12. Automate Outdoor Lighting and Irrigation

Your smart home doesn't have to stop at the front door. Outdoor lighting and irrigation systems can be automated to improve security and landscape health.

Use motion-activated or scheduled lighting to deter intruders or welcome guests. Smart irrigation systems like Rachio adjust watering based on local weather data, preventing overuse.

For exterior-focused projects, explore retractable solar-powered awnings to enhance your patio’s usability.

13. Energy Monitoring and Reporting Tools

Smart homes can also help manage utility costs by offering real-time feedback on which appliances use the most electricity.

You can receive suggestions for improving efficiency or even get alerts when abnormal consumption patterns are detected. These tools promote more sustainable and cost-effective living.

Learn how energy-efficient upgrades tie into whole-house systems with our guide to energy-efficient window replacement.

Related Resources from Demers Glass

To help you dive deeper into smart home improvements, here are a few related reads:

Final Thoughts

Smart home automation isn’t just a convenience; it’s a practical investment in comfort, energy savings, and security. Whether you’re upgrading a few features or embarking on a whole-home transformation, these automation ideas can serve as your foundation.

At Demers Glass, we believe in providing more than products—we deliver lasting solutions backed by expert knowledge and unmatched customer care. If you’re considering integrating smart features with your home’s glass, doors, or window systems, contact us today. Our team is ready to help you design a smarter, easier lifestyle tailored to your space.