Apps have become the go-to solution for many homeowners, especially when it comes to managing and taking care of their homes. Connected devices, Bluetooth technology, and the Internet of Things have all contributed to smarter homes, and these four home apps can become indispensable.

Thermostat App

Image via Flickr by kennymatic

If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, you need one, and consider a smart thermostat while you’re at it. Smart thermostats allow you to control your home’s temperature, humidity levels, and more from an app on your phone or tablet. If you forget to change the temperature when you leave for work in the morning, for instance, you can open the app on your device and change it instead of enduring higher energy bills.

Thermostat apps also prove useful when you want to change your thermostat’s programming settings while you’re out of the house or on vacation. You can also learn useful information about your home’s energy consumption, the weather outside your home, and more.

Home Security App

When you want to keep your home safe from theft, vandalism, and other criminal activity, consider investing in a home security system with an app. About every 18 seconds, a home gets burglarized in the United States, and you don’t want to find yourself part of that statistic.

Modern home security apps don’t just alert you if someone tries to break into your home. They often come with cameras that let you see your home’s perimeter as well as the front door. Some even allow you to talk to visitors, such as delivery personnel, who ring your doorbell.

Cable and Internet App

If you haven’t cut the cable cord yet, cable and internet apps can help you manage your entertainment experience more accurately. For instance, you can set your preferred channels, let the app know which shows are your favorite, and schedule your DVR to record programs that you’ll miss because you’re away from home.

These apps learn your preferences over time and can start suggesting television shows, movies, documentaries, and other programs that might interest you. Why scroll through the guide on your TV when an app can help you get to the good stuff?

Interior and Exterior Lighting App

When you hook up your interior and exterior lighting to an app, you control when your lights come on and switch off. While simple timers can accomplish a similar goal, you can’t change the settings when you’re away from home. Connected devices give you full control over your home’s lighting when you’re away.

For instance, if you have a security system app and a lighting app, you could turn on random lights in your house if someone approaches the home. That way, a potential intruder might think someone’s at home. Of all the smart apps for the home, lighting apps might seem simple, but they can make your home safer.

If you have a smartphone or tablet, get acquainted with some of the above apps today. You’ll gain more control over your home and more peace of mind.