Over the Moon offers a wide range of home automation equipment and many of our customers ask about what they should spend on it. The cost of automating your home varies. You can control and network specific equipment or nearly every electronic device you own. Therefore, the cost of such an upgrade ranges considerably.
According to Angi, the average home automation system costs $931. However, the average cost range is from $181 to $1,686, but a high-end installation can cost up to $4,500 or more.1 Here, we’ll examine what you can spend to automate your home if you are on a budget or willing to splurge on the latest innovations.
If You’re On a Budget
In theory, you could spend as little as $150 to add a basic automation component. A low-end update can include installing a video doorbell, automatic light, electronic blinds, or a smoke/carbon monoxide (CO) detector. However, you can purchase a more feature-packed, Wi-Fi-connected door lock system, thermostat, or smart home hub for around $500.
If You’re Willing to Invest in the Latest Technology
For $1,000+, you can invest in a high-end multiple security camera system with smartphone monitoring and control. Connected entertainment systems and appliances are also in this range. However, your budget still limits the amount of automation equipment and features you can squeeze in.
You can also invest in multiple smart automation options. Increase your budget slightly and you can afford all the bells and whistles of the latest home automation devices. But if you’re going for a smart refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, air purifier, home lighting system, or advanced security system, expect to spend $3,000 or more.
How Should I Budget for Home Automation?
First, determine the types of features you need. The lower your budget, the more you’ll need to set your priorities. For example, choose only a security system if you don’t need entertainment functions. If you’re considering a more extensive home upgrade, you can add exterior lighting to boost security. You can also modernize your entertainment system with automated features and streaming services, or completely renovate your living room to accommodate the newest tech.
Your expenditures on home automation are mostly determined by the equipment you purchase. Here’s a breakdown of common types of automation equipment and its costs:
- Cameras: $25 to $350
- Thermostats: $150 to $300
- Doorbells: $100 to $350
- Locks: $150 to $400
- Lighting: $20 to $100
- Smoke/CO Detectors: $50 to $150
- Garage Door Openers: $150 to $500
- Speakers: $30 to $300
- Outlets/Plugs: $20 to $100
- Blinds: $50 to $75
- Appliances: $50 to $3,000
- Wi-Fi/Mesh Wi-Fi Systems: $200 to $500
- Wi-Fi Booster: $50 to $1501
Other Home Automation Cost Factors
What you spend on home automation isn’t determined by equipment alone. The total cost of your project can also be impacted by:
- Installation: There are DIY options for basic projects. However, an update that involves electrical wiring or installation of a higher-end package will require a skilled professional. Hiring a home automation company can cost $100 to $300.1 If an electrician or other technician is required, you must also consider their hourly rate.
- Brand: Google Nest offers a wide range of automation equipment. Its security package ranges in cost based on the features you want. Depending on the Nest features you choose, you can spend $30 to over $3,000. However, ADT offers different automation packages at a monthly rate plus the cost of equipment.1
- Monthly and installation prices vary from company to company. A Savant home automation system starts at $1,600 and can be customized to your entertainment, security, and luxury needs. An Elan system, generally targeted at commercial home builders, can range from $10,000 to $150,000.1
- Size: If you’re looking to automate your entire home, the larger it is, the more connected devices, appliances, lights, and gadgets you’ll need. Therefore, you’ll spend more on your home automation system.
- Quality: Waterproof, more durable equipment will cost more than components of lesser quality. However, they can last longer and tend to be more versatile and reliable.
- Customization: Some home automation companies have specific packages that can help you save. You can choose add-ons or customize a package to your needs but expect to spend more to do so.
- Protocol: The protocol you choose not only depends on your budget but also on the kind of network and equipment you have. Wired protocols are the most expensive but offer the greatest security. Installing these often requires rewiring your electrical system. Wireless protocols are the most common and include Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Bluetooth. For a larger home, you may require an internet connection upgrade. There are also hybrid protocols, which are wired but support wireless devices; they’re the most complex to set up.
Call Over the Moon for Your Home Automation Quote
We install home automation systems that are affordable to you. Our Wisconsin customers count on us to install smart thermostats, lighting systems, climate control solutions, and entertainment systems, but we also install automated security equipment and monitoring systems. To learn more or request an in-home consultation or quote, call 262-510-0956.
Source:
https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-home-automation-cost.htm