People coming into contact with smart home tech for the first time generally have one of two very different smart home experiences.

1. The DIY experience: Installing many smart devices yourself and linking them all together. A source of great pride, and stress. Individual smart devices can take a lot of upkeep, networked systems can take even more and one failure can cause a domino effect
2. The integrated experience: Working with companies like us to create an integrated system of devices working together seamlessly. Some more expense, but a lot more enjoyment and relaxation. We ensure that the hardware, software and connections are well-supported and if something does happen, we can fix it.

People who have experienced flawed smart tech and blinkered device-focused support may be unwilling to invest in full smart home management. They need to know that having a dedicated manager who knows your full setup, your situation and how it fits and works together is a completely different experience and one that is very much better with less stress and downtime

Although DIY integration of smart home devices can be cost-effective and rewarding, it also presents various potential challenges. For those who are technically adept and ready to invest the necessary time and effort, it can be an achievable and enjoyable endeavour. However, if you prefer a seamless and dependable experience with professional assistance, hiring experts might be a better option. Here are some challenges you could face when doing DIY integration of smart home devices:

Technical challenges

1. Compatibility Issues: Different brands and devices may not work well together. Knowledge of what integrates well, and how is something that is earned with time and first-hand experience. Be prepared to come across some crashes and unsuited hardware as you learn what fits with what. Among other things, protocols (e.g., Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi) might not be compatible across all devices.
2. Network Congestion: Multiple devices on a single Wi-Fi network can cause congestion, slowing down your internet speed.
3. Firmware and Software Updates: Keeping track of and installing updates for all devices can be time-consuming. Failing to update your software and firmware when needed can lead to multiple problems across your smart devices, many of which can be hard to diagnose as outdated software issues. Incompatible updates may also disrupt device functionality. These problems multiply exponentially as you add more devices to your smart home system.
4. Configuration Complexity:
   • Setting up devices often involves navigating complex apps and settings.
   • Advanced configurations (like custom automations) require a deeper understanding of the technology. Often to get the most out of your smart technology, you need a good amount of skill to understand these configurations and how to set them up.

Security

1. Strengthening security configurations: Default settings might be insecure. Always change passwords and security settings from the defaults to something that is unique and difficult for others to guess. Professional smart system integrators can keep the necessary parts of your networks encrypted to protect them and the systems they host from threats.
2. Inconsistent Security Standards: Devices from different manufacturers may follow different security protocols, leading to potential vulnerabilities.
3. Unauthorized Access: Poorly secured devices can become weak spots that can be hacked easily, compromising your entire smart home network.

Operational issues

1. Reliability: Professionally integrated setups are much more reliable, limiting device malfunctions. Devices in DIY setups might not always respond as expected. With the many smart home experiences you come across as a smart device integrator, you learn to expect the unexpected, deal with it and even incorporate it into your plans for the system
2. Maintenance: Regular maintenance and troubleshooting are necessary to keep the system running smoothly. We can do that both remotely and in person to ensure that your smart home experience is seamlessly enjoyable.
   • Identifying and fixing issues can be difficult without professional knowledge. You wouldn’t want an amateur doctor to treat your family member.
3. Interference: We ensure other electronic devices in your home don’t interfere with smart home signals, causing disruptions.

User experience

1. Learning Curve: There is a significant learning curve associated with setting up and managing smart home devices. Balancing this with a career, family and busy social life, or even some of these things can be difficult. Let us take the weight off your shoulders.
   • Understanding how to optimize performance and integrate various systems can be complex. Look to Baker Stone to ensure that your systems are working at peak functionality together.
2. Time Investment: Setting up and troubleshooting devices can be very time-consuming. We can save you many hours of time spent launching and repairing your smart systems.
3. Frustration: We have come across many people for whom frustration from persistent issues has led to a negative experience and dissatisfaction. Often, we can turn this experience around by taking over systems and device management from the owner, leaving them to enjoy the outcome of their smart home.

Cost implications

1. Additional Costs: With us, you get an accurate quote of the total cost for a project from us on day one. If it costs more than that, we absorb the extra cost. This is different for DIY projects where purchasing the necessary hubs, bridges, upgrades, security measures and other accessories to ensure compatibility can be costly and unpredictable.
   • The potential need to replace incompatible or malfunctioning devices can add to the unexpected cost burden. Again, we deal with this predictably and stresslessly.

Limited support

1. Lack of Professional Support: This is a big area of trouble for DIY smart home operators. Troubleshooting and resolving issues can often be a lot more difficult without professional help. Baker Stone can be there when and where you need us with the necessary technical skills to repair, rescue and renovate your smart home systems so they are always operating as you like. We also provide access to expert advice and support channels, both in person and remotely, that would not be available otherwise.
2. Warranty and Service Issues: DIY installation, management and repair may void warranties or service agreements with some manufacturers. We are careful to take notice of warranties and service agreements as necessary when handling your smart home systems.

The right support for your smart home experiences

If you want the best of smart home experiences in your home, book a free support call when you like to discuss your future smart home.