Home automation, meaning being able to manage certain tasks related to your home through a controller of some sort, is very common today. However, as common as it is, many homeowners still have some misconceptions about what home automation includes. Note a few of those misconceptions here so you can decide if this is a good choice for your home.

Misconception 1: Everything works from a pad in the home

Many home automation systems today are connected to an app you can use on your smartphone or tablet. This allows you to easily control the home's temperature, lighting, appliances, and many other features from anywhere in the home, and even from the office or when you're on the road.

This also means that home automation systems aren't as difficult to use as you think. You don't need to go through a complicated coding system to switch something on or off or remember which button on a large pad controls the lights versus the thermostat. Using the system is just as easy as using anything else with an app on your phone.

Misconception 2: Home automation is just for alarms and lighting

There is virtually nothing that cannot be controlled through an automated system today. You can have your system hooked up to the home's faucets so you can ensure they're turned off when you're away or have a remote intercom on your front porch. When someone rings the doorbell, you can then speak to them through the intercom using your phone. An automation system can be connected to your appliances so you can turn on the furnace or air conditioning before you arrive home, or connected to the home's locks so you can unlock the door to let your child in after school and then ensure the door is locked safely behind them.

Misconception 3: They're costly

Home automation systems are usually more affordable than many homeowners realize, depending on what type you need for your home. Just like any other specialized feature you might add to your home, the cost of a home automation system will be determined by the features it offers, how many components of your home it needs to link to, and the like. For example, if you want a simple system that allows you to control the furnace and air conditioning, this will usually be more affordable than one that also connects to home faucets. Don't assume you can't afford a home automation system but make a list of the features you must have and note if those alone are within your budget.