Smart Home Basics: What Does a Smart Home Do, and How Do You Build One?

The term “smart home” is becoming more and more common, but what does it mean? For some, a smart home sounds futuristic, like something out of a sci-fi movie. For others, it’s already a part of daily life. Whether you’re new to home automation or just want to better understand how it works, this guide from JP Electrical will walk you through the basics of what a smart home does, the benefits it offers, and how to build one that fits your lifestyle and budget.

What Is a Smart Home?

A smart home uses internet-connected devices to allow remote monitoring and control of systems like lighting, heating, cooling, security, appliances, and more. These devices connect to each other (and to you) through a central network—usually your Wi-Fi—and can be controlled via smartphone, tablet, voice assistant, or smart hub.

In short, a smart home gives you the power to automate and customize your living environment, making everyday life easier, safer, and more energy-efficient.

What Can a Smart Home Do?

A smart home is much more than just asking Alexa to play music. Here are some of the most common and practical things a smart home setup can do:

1. Automate Lighting

• Turn lights on or off remotely
• Set schedules for lights to turn on at sunset or off at bedtime
• Dim lights to create mood lighting
• Save energy by turning lights off when no one’s home

2. Control Temperature and HVAC

• Use smart thermostats to learn your preferences and adjust automatically
• Control the thermostat remotely
• Get alerts if your system is using more energy than usual
• Set different zones for more efficient heating and cooling

3. Manage Security

• Monitor security cameras from your phone
• Get motion alerts when you’re not home
• Lock or unlock doors remotely
• See who’s at the door with a smart doorbell camera

4. Enhance Safety

• Get alerts for smoke, carbon monoxide, or water leaks
• Automatically shuts off water if a leak is detected
• Monitor garage doors, windows, and other entry points

5. Save Energy

• Smart plugs and power strips can cut off power to appliances not in use
• Track energy usage in real time
• Integrate with solar panel systems for optimized power use

6. Add Convenience

• Voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri can control multiple devices at once
• Routines can automate your day (e.g., “Good Morning” turns on lights, adjusts temperature, and plays news)
• Smart fridges, ovens, and washing machines can send notifications or be operated from your phone

Benefits of a Smart Home

Still wondering if investing in smart home technology is worth it? Here are the main advantages:

Convenience

Operate your home from anywhere. Whether you’re on the couch or across the country, you can manage your home with a tap on your phone.

Security

Smart home tech gives you peace of mind by letting you monitor and control doors, locks, cameras, and alarms remotely.

Energy Savings

Many smart devices are designed to reduce unnecessary energy consumption, saving money on utility bills.

Customization

Create personalized scenes and routines that match your lifestyle—from morning wake-ups to bedtime wind-downs.

Resale Value

Homes with integrated smart systems are increasingly appealing to buyers, especially younger generations looking for convenience and tech integration.

How to Build a Smart Home (Step-by-Step Guide)

Now that you know what a smart home can do, let’s walk through how to build one, whether you’re starting from scratch or adding to an existing setup.

Step 1: Set Your Goals

Ask yourself:

• What do you want your smart home to do?
• What are your priorities—security, comfort, energy savings, or convenience?
• Do you want to start small (like with lighting or a doorbell camera) or go big with a whole-house system?

Starting with clear goals helps prevent overwhelm and keeps your project on track.

Step 2: Choose a Smart Home Ecosystem

The ecosystem is the backbone of your smart home. This includes:

• Amazon Alexa
• Google Home / Google Assistant
• Apple HomeKit
• Samsung SmartThings

Each system has pros and cons, and many smart devices are compatible with multiple platforms. Choose one that works best with your devices and preferred controls (voice, app, etc.).

Pro Tip: Staying within one ecosystem makes it easier for devices to communicate and integrate smoothly.

Step 3: Start with a Central Hub (Optional)

While many smart devices can work independently via Wi-Fi, a central smart hub can help manage devices, especially if you’re planning a larger setup.

Common hubs include:

• Amazon Echo
• Google Nest Hub
• Samsung SmartThings Hub
• Apple HomePod

Some hubs act as voice assistants and central controllers, while others serve as the nerve center for more complex automation.

Step 4: Focus on Core Categories

Begin with one or two categories based on your priorities. The most popular categories for beginners are:

Security & Surveillance

• Video doorbells (Ring, Nest Hello)
• Smart locks (August, Yale, Schlage)
• Security cameras (Arlo, Blink, Eufy)
• Window/door sensors and alarms

Lighting

• Smart bulbs (Philips Hue, LIFX)
• Smart switches/dimmers (TP-Link, Lutron)
• Motion sensors

Climate Control

• Smart thermostats (Nest, Ecobee)
• Smart ceiling fans or AC controllers

Smart Plugs & Outlets

• Turn dumb devices into smart ones
• Monitor energy usage
• Automate coffee makers, space heaters, or lamps

Entertainment & Media

• Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Roku)
• Smart speakers (Sonos, Echo, Google Nest)
• Universal remote controls (Logitech Harmony)

Step 5: Ensure a Strong Wi-Fi Network

Your smart home is only as good as your Wi-Fi. Many devices rely on a stable internet connection to work properly.

Tips for smart home connectivity:

• Upgrade your router if it’s older than 5 years
• Use a mesh Wi-Fi system for large homes
• Consider wired Ethernet connections for static devices like hubs and cameras

Step 6: Install Devices Safely

While some devices are easy DIY projects (smart plugs or bulbs), others, like thermostats or light switches, may require electrical work.

That’s where JP Electrical comes in. Our licensed electricians can:

• Safely install wired smart devices
• Ensure compatibility with your home’s electrical system
• Upgrade panels or wiring if needed
• Recommend reliable brands and configurations

Important: Electrical devices like smart switches, outdoor lighting, or security systems should always be installed by a professional to avoid hazards or code violations.

Step 7: Customize and Automate

Once your devices are installed, it’s time to have some fun.

Set up:

• Scenes like “Movie Night” that dim lights, close blinds, and turn on your home theater
• Routines like “Leaving Home” to turn off all lights, adjust the thermostat, and arm your security system
• Geofencing to trigger actions when you arrive or leave home

Most ecosystems and apps walk you through automation options, but advanced setups can be handled by professional installers.

Step 8: Expand Over Time

A smart home doesn’t need to be built in a day. Start small, see what works for you, and expand as your needs grow.

Ideas for expansion:

• Outdoor lighting and landscape automation
• Smart sprinklers and irrigation systems
• Garage door automation
• Smart appliances and voice-controlled kitchen tools
• Home office or entertainment automation

Common Smart Home Mistakes to Avoid

Before we wrap up, here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring compatibility: Always check if your devices work with your chosen ecosystem.
• Weak Wi-Fi: Upgrade your network before adding too many smart devices.
• Skipping professional installation: Electrical work should be done by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and code compliance.
• Not planning ahead: Think long-term about how your system might grow.
• Overcomplicating it: More isn’t always better. Start simple and scale thoughtfully.

Partner with JP Electrical for Your Smart Home

Whether you’re installing smart light switches or upgrading your home’s electrical panel to support new devices, JP Electrical is your trusted partner for smart home projects in Utah. 

Our team of licensed electricians can:

• Assess your current electrical system
• Install smart switches, thermostats, and panels
• Recommend energy-efficient and budget-friendly solutions
• Troubleshoot connectivity or compatibility issues

We make the transition to a smart home easy, safe, and stress-free.

Ready to Get Smarter at Home?

A smart home can simplify your life, improve your security, reduce your energy bills, and even increase the value of your property. Whether you’re just starting or ready to go all-in, JP Electrical is here to help you build a home that works with you, not against you.

Contact us today to learn more about smart home installations or to schedule a consultation with one of our licensed electricians. Let’s make your home smarter—together.