Q: Why should I consider home control ?

Home systems installers are experts at getting different products to work together. For example, they know how to program a security system so it can also operate the lights and thermostats. They can set up one button on your remote to dim the lights, close the drapes and start the home theater. When your systems are integrated and in sync, they're easier and more convenient to use.

What's in the Wine Celler?

Wine connoisseurs can use a home control system to catalog their inventory of vino. Set up by a professional home electronics installer, the system can show you on the screen of a touch panel&345;style controller what's currently stashed in your wine cellar, what goes well with fish and when it's time to restock.

Top Reasons to Have Home Control

A type of wiring commonly used to transmit data between computers. However, it can also be used to transmit audio and video signals to speakers and TVs throughout a home. Commands from a home control system can also travel to lights, thermostats and other devices over Category 5 cabling.

• Efficiency. Shut off the lights, lower the thermostats, lock the doors, and turn off the TVs and stereo from a single button before you go to bed.
• Convenience. Have the system turn the lights on and off automatically at certain times of the day.
• Security. Make your home look occupied while you're away by having the system open and close the window shades automatically. Have the system send a message to your cell phone or laptop computer whenever someone rings the doorbell.
• Fun. Imagine all the fun you'll have when you can play your favorite music or DVD movies on every speaker and TV in the house. And all you have to do is press a button.

Before You Sign...

Make sure your contract spells out the following things clearly:

Who's doing the work

Your home systems installer may be handling the design and installation of your home control system, but he may subcontract with another company to handle other parts, like the audio and video components, security system and so forth.

What's covered

Some companies may combine their consultation, design and installation time into one flat fee. Others may charge separately for their consultation and design time.

Warranties

If something goes wrong with your system, you'll need to know who to call and whether the problem is covered by the manufacturer's warranty or the installation firm's warranty.

A feature of some keypads, touch panels and remotes that enables the status of electronic equipment to be communicated back to the user.

Follow-up service

You should expect to make a few modifications to your home control system after a few months of living with it. Be sure you understand what types of modifications are covered under the contract and for how long.

Make sure your home systems installer runs updates on your control system as they become available.

—Adam Weart, design and engineering manager, Homewaves, Cumming, GA