An HVAC contractor sits at a kitchen table and discusses an ecobee smart thermostat with homeowners.
Business Insider

Why contractors should embrace the AI smart home

In recent years, connected or smart home products have become even smarter thanks to artificial intelligence, or AI. Manufacturers of high-tech home features are now leveraging AI and predictive analytics to engineer products for increased efficiency.

For contractors and builders, smart home automations present an opportunity to build and renovate the homes customers want to buy. AI is elevating what these homes can do, and contractors, builders and their customers can all benefit.

What is an AI smart home system?

The term AI has a broad definition. In general, it refers to machines having the ability to “learn” when and how to do a certain task based on data, which is made possible through algorithms.

In terms of smart home automations, AI refers to products like smart thermostats and smart sensors that are engineered with voice assistance and learning algorithms. An AI smart home system allows the homeowner to manage these products through one device or app, controlling the entire system from anywhere in the world, if it’s on Wi-Fi.

Smart home building ideas for contractors

The concept of the smart home has evolved since it was first introduced on the consumer market. Initial smart house systems had to be physically wired together with cords and cables. Today, installing an AI smart home system is much simpler because of wireless network technology like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee or Z-Wave.

Examples of smart home products include:

Graphic of a small suburban home with smart equipment circled, including security cameras, the door lock, kitchen appliances and lighting.

Many of these products connect to the various components of heating and cooling systems that HVAC professionals routinely maintain. This makes it a logical next step to offer smart home product installation as a complement to the HVAC installation and services that you’re already performing.

The benefits of smart home automations

Most smart home products can either be programmed for the best times to run to save energy or will use AI to run at optimal times. They’re a great choice to lower environmental impact as they can respond to residents’ schedules and even the weather to run more efficiently. ENERGY STAR reports that a smart home using AI uses less energy and offers more convenience for residents.

In addition, smart home products and remote monitoring often bring greater security benefits and peace of mind. Customers won’t have to wonder whether or not they remembered to turn off appliances. They’ll also be able to view what’s happening in their home with a few taps on their phone.

Plus, homes with upgraded, efficient appliances and systems are typically more appealing to buyers, whatever the market brings. Coldwell Banker reports that the majority of potential homebuyers in America prefer AI smart home products installed prior to purchase, including cameras, lighting, fire and carbon monoxide detectors and thermostats.

The smart home market for builders

The smart home market is expected to grow more than 10% every year through 2028, according to Grand View Research. Customers want to increase their comfort while they reside in their home and also grow value for when they’re ready to sell.

By embracing AI smart home systems, contractors and builders can position their businesses for success—strengthening relationships with current customers and expanding to new customers as well.

Partner with Ferguson to build AI smart homes

If you’re ready to learn how to grow your business with smart home automations, Ferguson can help. Our knowledgeable associates have expertise in the products you need to build an AI smart house system, including smart kitchen and bath, security, voice assistance, safety and energy.

Explore our vast inventory of smart home products.