Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager with Scolmore Group, provides an overview of the home automation sector, and outlines details of the smart solution that ESP can offer wholesalers.
The home automation market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for smart homes. Electrical wholesalers are in a prime position to capitalise on this trend by offering a range of smart home products and solutions. By understanding the key technologies, market opportunities, and implementation strategies, wholesalers can stay ahead of the curve and enhance their business prospects.
Understanding home automation
Home automation refers to the use of smart devices and interconnected systems to control various aspects of a home, including lighting, security, heating, cooling and entertainment. These systems are typically controlled through mobile apps, voice commands, or centralised hubs. As technology advances, consumers are increasingly seeking integrated solutions that enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Electricians who are working to satisfy this demand will be looking to their preferred wholesaler and manufacturer to provide guidance on the products and solutions available to help them meet their clients’ requirements.
Key technologies:
- Smart security systems – cameras, smart locks, doorbell cameras and alarm systems that provide real-time monitoring and control.
- Smart lighting – includes LED bulbs, dimmers and motion sensors that can be controlled remotely.
- Thermostats and climate control – smart thermostats allow homeowners to optimise energy use and maintain comfortable temperatures.
- Smart plugs and switches – enable remote control of electrical appliances and devices.
- Voice assistants and hubs – devices such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit integrate various smart devices for seamless operation.
The smart security solution
ESP first launched its comprehensive range of Fort smart security products over three years ago and the range continues to be popular both for the installers fitting the products and the wholesalers stocking the range, with its choice of easy-to-install and set-up security solutions. Fort is a complete range of smart security products, which includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras. They all operate under a single app – the ‘Click Smart+’ app – which is completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. With the operation of the Fort range coming under Click Smart+ app from Scolmore, users have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform.
Fort offers accessibility and simplicity for both the installer and end user, bringing smart solutions together for a safer and more comfortable home. The range features contemporary styling and has been designed to be simple to install, maintain and use and to provide a hassle-free security solution.
At the heart of the Fort smart security range is the smart intruder alarm, which will support up to 32 RF devices and provide remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ APP. The smart alarms are available in handy kit formats or can be purchased as separate devices for a tailor-made system.
The purpose-built smart security kits contain everything needed to kit out a home in one box. A number of different kits are available, with the basic kit containing one each of the following – a smart hub, PIR, door/window contact and remote control. Other kits offer an additional number of PIRs, door/window contacts, remote controls and pet PIRs. Other kits include an additional smart alarm keypad and external solar powered smart siren, or an additional smart alarm keypad, external solar powered smart siren and smart Wi-Fi doorbell. All devices supplied within the kits are pre-registered, to assist with a straightforward install.
The Fort range also includes a smart thermostat and smart sockets to further enhance the offer to stockists and end users.
Maximising opportunities
The range of home automation products and solutions available is extensive and by stocking a wide variety wholesalers can attract a broader range of customers, with electricians and consumers keen to take advantage of this growing sector. By partnering with a reputable manufacturer, wholesalers will have access to high-quality, cutting-edge products, backed up with excellent customer service and access to training to help them understand how the different products operate and integrate. As the demand for smart home technology continues to grow, electrical wholesalers have a significant opportunity to expand their product lines and enhance customer engagement. By investing in the right products, partnerships, and training, wholesalers can position themselves as go-to suppliers for the evolving home automation market.
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