Question 1

What is a smart home?

Accepted Answer

A smart home is a house that integrates smart products and appliances - allowing you to control lighting, entertainment, security, and comfort through a central interface.

This technology isn’t just for homes - it’s also highly effective for businesses. For example, our own office and showroom are automated using smart systems linked to alarm settings and a central tablet, helping us manage everything efficiently and securely on a schedule.

Question 2

What can a smart home do?

Accepted Answer

Almost anything. A smart home is bespoke to each home and its owners.

You might want your security and lighting to work together, simulating occupancy while you’re away. Or perhaps you love to entertain and want to control multiple audio and video zones throughout the home—from your phone, tablet, TV, or in-wall touch panel.

Smart homes can manage both internal and external elements, from indoor climate and lighting to gate access, outdoor security, and garden lighting—giving you seamless control across your entire property.

Question 3

What is home automation?

Accepted Answer

Automation is the process of replacing human interaction with technology. When referring to home automation, you are replacing a manual operation with an automatic action.

For example, instead of switching on multiple switches by hand when you arrive home, an automated home could be programmed to turn on lights based on your proximity.

Experience the future of smart living for yourself—visit our certified Control4 Automation Showroom to see it in action.

Question 4

What is the best home automation system?

Accepted Answer

The best home automation system for you will depend on what you’re trying to achieve, your budget, and the technology already in your home.

While many features can be achieved with DIY products, if you’re interested in a truly seamless and fully integrated smart home, it’s best to speak with an expert.

At ATL, we proudly recommend Control4 (https://www.atlelectrical.co.nz/control4)- our main automation platform. As a Control4 Gold Dealer, we trust it for its reliability, powerful features, and flexibility to suit homes of all sizes and styles.

Question 5

Are smart homes worth it?

Accepted Answer

A professionally installed smart home is designed to make your life easier.

All of your smart devices are seamlessly orchestrated to make your home more user friendly.

This is often the downside of DIY smart home products. Any benefit is negated by the issues connecting, installing and maintaining the product or system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the ATL FAQ hub — your go-to guide for smart home technology, automation, security, heating, cooling, and beyond.

Automation

Security

HVAC (Heating, ventilation & cooling)