Top 4 Tech Trends to Watch for Homeowners in 2014
The home of the future was once something only imagined in science fiction. During the mid-20th century, the technology that we envisioned to one day be a normal aspect of our home only remotely resembles what we actually have available today. Innovations have zoomed beyond all expectations and continue to evolve every day. Here are some of the hottest tech trends that homeowners should expect to see in 2014.
Smart appliances
It’s hard to believe that not too long ago the sought out home appliances performed only the most basic of functions. Now these devices are incorporating many different elements and raising the line in technology development. Refrigerators are carefully keeping food fresh at precise temperatures while measuring dispensed water to the drop. Washers automatically sense the type of clothes being washed and apply the right amount turbulence when cleaning. Ovens are able to direct different levels of convectional heat within one appliance. It’s not uncommon to see a variety of smart devices linked up to the internet that fantastically access recipes, control timing, and provide a fully automated experience.
Home management systems
From devices that measure carbon monoxide in the air to home security systems that can be controlled remotely using an app on your smartphone, home management systems are among the tech trends that are getting the high tech treatment in 2014. Communications companies are promoting "whole-home" solutions that not only control your entertainment center but also your security. All of which can be monitored and maintained while on the go. This is becoming one of the hottest tech trends in 2014 that even has Google onboard with its purchase of Nest technology. This high-tech fire alarm and climate control device is just the first step in the quest to have the whole home networked and controlled from a single place.
LED Lighting
Incandescent lighting is out with more and more companies ditching the century old technology. In its place are the implementations of LED lighting systems that, although more costly to produce upfront, are much more energy efficient. LED technology has been around for decades, however recently there has been a certain renaissance in this type of lighting option as people are becoming more conscience of living a green lifestyle. As the components for producing LED lights are becoming cheaper to produce, more lighting options associated with them are coming about. LEDs will surely find themselves at center stage as they are more energy efficient and provide more lumens per wattage than their predecessors.
Repurposing
In the age of becoming more eco-friendly, old technology is becoming new in the form of re-purposing. Items like televisions and computers are being transformed into shelves, cabinets, and storage devices. Home owners are reusing sheet metal and industrial grade items like counter tops, doors, and benches for recycling in their homes.
The future is here as many tech trends that once seemed unattainable are becoming prominent in the homes of many Americans today. Smart devices and efficiency are amongst the top of the list of what’s trending for homeowners in 2014.
