Home Automation Recommendations

[Danae Meurer]

I have been looking around and am surprised that there is so little discussion regarding home automation.  We are purchasing our first vacation rental and I would like to get it set up to manage more from home.  It is about an hour away, and we would like to automate locks, garage door, thermostat, lights, etc... so we can make sure everything is shut down and locked up between renters.  I have done some research online, but would love some recommendations on systems that people have used themselves.  Thanks in advance for the help!

[Timothy Gleason]

@Leigh Ann Smith Great point.  I noticed a lack of unified support for any home automation product line when I was looking to do the same thing earlier this year.  I attribute it to the 'feeling out' phase similar to that awkward Blu-ray vs HD-DVD time. 

For door locks, I'm considering the Schlage Connect product line, using a Wink hub.  I'm planning on running two systems simultaneously  (Two hubs, two door locks on different doors connected to two different routers).  In my experience w/ all things tech, "1 is none, and 2 is one."  I already have (2) internet routers (different brands) so my guests have backup WiFi if a storm knocks one offline and I can't get out there to reset.  Another great tip I heard is using the guest's last (4) of their phone number as their door lock code.  (A nice personal touch)

For thermostats, I use the Honeywell product line (non-touchscreen), and I've been happy.  They look like "Dumb" thermostats, and I would guess that 90% of my guests have no idea I monitor their set points throughout their stay.  Interesting point here- I find a VERY HIGH correlation between "Thermostat Abuse" (55 degree setpoints in July) and problem tenants.  It's been a great early warning indicator for me that I need to apply some extra attention to those guests.

If you have success w/ the door locks & garage doors, let us know!