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Is Your House Smart? Add Automation Technology to Your Luxury Home

Smart homes are the concept of the future that already has roots today. The more advanced our technology becomes, the smarter our environments such as cars, homes and offices become. However, unlike our cars, or offices, our homes are an intimate reflection of our style and desires as well as a place that we need to feel comfortable. The true key to home automation is not so much focusing on one technological aspect, but connecting them all so that the house provides a total environment. Here are some powerful devices that make your home work to make your experience more relaxing and enjoyable.

Smart Thermostats

One of the most powerful environment regulators is the thermostat in your home. It keeps rooms cool in the summer and warm in the winter. While a traditional thermostat is set by your choice of maximum and/or minimum temperature for comfort, a smart thermostat, coupled with a temperature sensor unit regulates temperatures based on current conditions and exact temperatures desire for complete comfort. They can even regulate humidity, and be programmed to keep specific rooms at individual levels.

Automatic Lighting

There are double benefits to smart lighting in a home. The first benefit is security, the second is comfort and ease of visibility. Lighting timers have been around for awhile, and they are a good way to turn lights on at night when you are away to scare away possible invaders. However, modern smart lighting goes a step further in using sensors to regulate the operation of certain programmed lights to go on exactly when natural light dims to a specific level. That adds to the benefits on both sides by de-regulating the time lights turn on so it looks more natural, and also making sure you have the visibility in your home that’s best for all times.

Staging Lights Get Automated

This type of light accents individual focal points in the best manner. Stage lighting is shaped by situating the lights in the most attractive manner for the exhibit, and very advanced lighting even includes beveled lights to reflect different surfaces in different ways. Another way of using lighting to enhance an area is to bring out the surrounding colors, or create an atmosphere with colored bulbs. Automation allows all of these aspects to be combined with specific timing, or even rotation of lighting colors or focus points.

Automation for the Home Theater

One of the most popular aspects of modern home technology is the entertainment center. A home theater inter-connects all aspects of the entertainment experience for a total package including superior sound, picture and also seating comfort. Lighting also plays a strong part in creating a home theater. Different types of lighting can be programmed into the system to provide a brighter light for sports events, dimmer lights for romantic movies, or even create levels of light in different areas of the room, such as pinpointing more light to a bar area and less to a sofa area.

Integrated Audio Technology

Nothing creates ambiance better than music. Integrated music systems pump your choice of music through strategically placed speakers in every room of the house, or can be programmed to play in specific areas. You can even have music played in the garden through speakers embedded into faux rocks so it seems to come out of thin air.

New Technology in Remote Controls

Although a big part of smart homes is having the various aspects controlled automatically, sometimes it is nice to take back control. Smart homes let you develop systems that give you the power of control no matter where you are. Remote control programs let you access all of the systems in your home right from a phone, or computer.…

10 Things That You Need to Put in Your Home Theater

So what makes the perfect home theater? I am not going to get all technical on you and give you exact specs for everything you need in your home theater because everyone has different tastes but here are 10 items that you simply must have.

A TV – Yes is would be extremely difficult to have much of a home theater without a television. When it comes to TV’s the bigger the better in my book. Another item to remember when you are looking at televisions is the resolution. In order to make sure you get the best picture possible and don’t lose any picture quality double check that you get a high-def TV with a resolution of 720p or 1080p picture.

A Blu-ray Player – a blue ray player is going to give you the sharpest picture possible and will still play your regular DVDs. In fact most blu-ray players will actually increase the quality of your regular dvd so even your old DVDs will have a sharper image.

A Home Theater Receiver – The receiver is heart of your home theater. The receiver powers the speakers and makes surround sound a possibility.

A Solid Set Of Speakers – To recreate the magical effect of surround sound you get in the theater you will want at least 5 voice-matched speakers. Now if you want to get a little crazy you could even go with 6 or 7 voice-matched speakers.

A Solid Subwoofer – So if the receiver is the heart of the home theater the subwoofer is the angry fist of the system. A good subwoofer is essential to recreate those earth shaking affects where you actually feel like you were in movie. Lava Subs makes one of the finest home theater subwoofers I have found to complement almost any system.

A Universal Remote – There is nothing more aggravating than trying to find the 3 thousand remotes to your system to make sure everything is working. I would suggest investing in a good universal remote to stop the anger and give you more time to watch the movie instead of hunting for the remotes.

A Comfortable Chair – What good is an awesome home theater system if you are not comfortable? Enough said!

Lighting Control – Everyone needs a way to dim the lighting just enough to not interfere with the movie but not have it so dark that you are blind once the TV goes off.

Popcorn – Who can watch a move without popcorn? Honestly… I can’t believe I even had to put it on the list.

Movie Theater Decor – A movie poster or 2 never hurt anything. Give the place some character.…

Home Theater, How to Mount a TV on a Wall

With all of the great technology available, you can have movie night in your home instead of trooping off to the theater and paying ten bucks a shot for seat plus a lot more for that popcorn and soda. If you are ready to rev up your home’s entertainment value, you are probably already in the market for or have purchased a home theater system. In order to derive the most benefit from your purchase, you’ll need to know some basics about home theater. How to Mount a TV on a wall is just one.

Mounting a flat screen television on your wall is not anything like hanging a painting. It is so much more than driving in a nail or two, and making sure the thing is level. First, before you begin the actual mounting, you need to determine where on the wall the screen should be placed in order to provide optimum viewing from all parts of the room. Then, you need to ensure that you have access to the electronics and/or cable or satellite input. There will be a DVD, a DVR, a game system console and other peripherals, including the home theater sound system to provide space for, too. Location is step one.

Step two is ensuring that you have the proper hardware to mount the unit. They may not be as heavy as they once were, but they are pricey enough you want to ensure they don’t topple off. So, invest in a good hardware kit and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter.

Of course, the simplest way to ensure your wide screen is up on the wall in the right place and with the right security is to hire a pro. Most retailers provide installation service. The pros know about home theater and how to mount a TV on a wall where you will get the best value for your investment in quality home entertainment.…

Buying Guide For Home Theater Projectors (Step 2)

Currency specifications for home theater projectors.

When you decide to buy a projector on website, compare values for resolution, brightness, contrast ratio and weight, and any optional features.

-Resolution

In a projector resolution is the number of pixels that the device produces. The value is expressed as two numbers: the first indicates the horizontal pixels, the second the vertical ones. Two examples are 800 x 600 resolution and 1024 x 768. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image.

The projectors are compatible with HDTV signals will support high-quality HDTV 1080i (1920 x 1080 interlaced) and / or 720p (1280 x 720 progressive scan).

-Brightness

The brightness, or light output, is measured according to ANSI Lumens (American National Standards Institute) and determines how you see the projected images in a well lit room. A greater number of lumens will produce an image larger and brighter.

The projectors for home theater generally have values between 700 and 2,500 lumens, perfect for dark rooms or lighting. Search lumens projectors with higher values if you plan to use the projector in well-lit rooms.

-Contrast Ratio

Video projectors measure of the difference between the brightest and darkest sections of an image by a ratio, eg 600:1, or 2.220:1. Projectors with higher contrast ratios provide images with better definition.

-Weight

The weight of the projectors can be between 3 and 9 pounds nove. If you intend to use it outside the home, looking for a lightweight projector.

-Special Features

The projectors for home theater can incorporate many features including:

**Zoom: by operating the zoom image you feel at the center of the screen.

**Picture in Picture: With PIP function you will see more than one channel or video source at a time.

**Film Mode: Film mode you will get more intense colors and reduce fan noise.

When you do your research on website, try searching the features you find most useful with the search keywords.

When you decide to buy a projector on website, compare values for resolution, brightness, contrast ratio and weight, and any optional features.

-Resolution In a projector resolution is the number of pixels that the device produces. The value is expressed as two numbers: the first indicates the horizontal pixels, the second the vertical ones. Two examples are 800 x 600 resolution and 1024 x 768. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image.

The projectors are compatible with HDTV signals will support high-quality HDTV 1080i (1920 x 1080 interlaced) and / or 720p (1280 x 720 progressive scan).

-Brightness The brightness, or light output, is measured according to ANSI Lumens (American National Standards Institute) and determines how you see the projected images in a well lit room. A greater number of lumens will produce an image larger and brighter.

The projectors for home theater generally have values between 700 and 2,500 lumens, perfect for dark rooms or lighting. Search lumens projectors with higher values if you plan to use the projector in well-lit rooms.

-Contrast Ratio Video projectors measure of the difference between the brightest and darkest sections of an image by a ratio, eg 600:1, or 2.220:1. Projectors with higher contrast ratios provide images with better definition.

-Weight The weight of the projectors can be between 3 and 9 pounds nove. If you intend to use it outside the home, looking for a lightweight projector.

-Special Features The projectors for home theater can incorporate many features including:

**Zoom: by operating the zoom image you feel at the center of the screen.

**Picture in Picture: With PIP function you will see more than one channel or video source at a time.

**Film Mode: Film mode you will get more intense colors and reduce fan noise. When you do your research on website, try searching the features you find most useful with the search keywords…

Advantages of Hiring a Home Theater Installer

With the economy the way it is now, it is tempting to opt for “do it yourself” to save a little green when installing a home theater. However, if you don’t have the skills, this could very well put a hole in your pocket. Professional help is ideal for these projects as the skills are very specialized and you actually end up with a superior setup and save money as well.

You would love to have a big Flat Screen TV in your apartment but without the clutter. With all the cables, rest assured it can get quite messy without professional help, unless you are one. One wrong wire or incorrect connection and you might end up having to replace your entire home theater system. The ideal option to effectively accomplish the TV mounting job is to hire professionals to mount the TV on the wall.

Key Benefits

Superior professional setup and customization

Professional advice and ideal solution

Cost savings, eliminate unnecessary expenses

A perfect installation is what you get if you did hire a professional home theater installer. You will end up avoiding unnecessary expenses in the future as well.

An important benefit using professionals is the ability to customize your theater experience. You can oversee the complete installation and even make minor changes as per your liking. Also get some expert suggestions for free while you are at it.

Most installers will chalk up a plan based on the space available. They will also offer advice on the best location for your equipment. You also have the option for multiple-room installation. This will ensure that your home theater experience meets your expectations.

The Audio is a vital element of a home theater system. Depending on your requirement, you could choose different types of Audio equipment ranging from single to dual amplifiers, surround sound speakers, multi-channel audio output systems, and much more.

But installing different types of audio counterparts can be a rather complicated job and this is easily taken care of by professional home theater installers.

Your TV installers can help you choose between a plasma screen and a projector/screen set according to your personal preferences. For instance, plasma screens offer a clear, vivid picture, which is best in a dark atmosphere, while projector/screen combination sets offer a high quality picture in full light, indirect light, or the dark. Your home theater installation specialist can help you analyze your personal needs and decide which the best option for you.…

Customized Home Theater Installation – Things To Consider

There are many options for installing the components of a high quality home theater system in your entertainment room. Most of the people prefer to install delicate items like a big television screen and speakers mounted to the wall. This provides an aesthetic look to the room and also offers safety against messing up of cables and wires. Hiding and organizing wires also help in reducing chances of electric shock and other accidents. However, some other people prefer to install stand alone speakers to enjoy better sound effects.

The process of a home theater installation is a tough process and it is advisable to hire a professional home theater installer to complete the install in a proper way. However, some people opt to perform this task on their own. You may opt for installing a home theater only if you have proper knowledge about such electrical works. The components of a home cinema system are very delicate and obviously expensive. While installing a theater on your own may seem to be an option for saving expenses, even a minute mistake may cause greater loss. Furthermore, imperfect connections of various components of a home cinema will reduce the quality of audio and visual effects.

If you decide to install your theater system on your own, you should carefully read all the guidelines given in the manual for installation. In addition, you should use high quality mounting and fixture equipment to install various components of a home system. Use proper wire covers to organize and hide the cables and wire cords involved in the home theater area to avoid any mess. However, if you are willing to hook up the surround sound speakers in the wall, then you will have to take the help of an expert theater installer.

It is not difficult to find out a professional home theater installer who will fix all the components of your theater system in a reasonable period of time. In general, the appliance stores or the electronic shop from where you have bought the components will offer professional help for installing the home cinema system. Most of the shops that sell television screens, surround sound speakers, wires, projectors and other components of theater systems often employ expert home theater installers or they remain in contact with such experts to render professional installation services to their customers. However, if you find it difficult to attain the services of a professional installer, you may opt for a handyman electrician who have some knowledge of such type of tasks and may help you in the job.

In any case, the best option is to hire a professional home theater installer in your area as such an expert person will be able to handle each and every component of the theater system in an appropriate manner so that you may enjoy the best possible entertainment experience at your home. Just be sure you choose a company that is trained and certified in these fields.…

Choosing Curved Or Straight Home Theater Seating

Besides the audio and visual components of your media room the next single, most important piece is the actual home theater seating itself. You’ve narrowed down your budged. It’s a tough time for many consumers during this recession so your budget may not be much, regardless you may have one. You’ve decided on a particular fabric or leather that suits your needs. You know the particular style of theater seating that you prefer, whether it be traditional or contemporary. You know the overall measurements of the room. You know whether you want single seats or a few rows of seats. But how do you decide whether you are going to go with curved or straight rows of seating for your media room? Is there really a big difference as far as viewing angles?

The overall space of the media room dictates the number of seats or even rows of seats. For only one row of seating consisting of one or two seats, it doesn’t matter as much whether you go with straight or curved configuration. There is only so much of a curve that will be created with two seats anyway. It wouldn’t have a significant impact on viewing. On the other hand, for a row of seating with three or more seats, the curved configuration is the ideal choice.

Let’s think about this a bit more. When you go to an actual movie theater and you have a choice of seats do you choose the end seats or do you choose one of the middle seats? Obviously you choose one of the middle seats for best viewing angle. I know I do. You have to turn your head either left or right towards the screen with the end seats depending on which end you sit, while with the seats in the center you don’t.

The same thing applies with home theater seating but on a much smaller scale. With a curved theater seating configuration you only have to make the slightest of adjustments with your head to watch the screen. With a straight configuration you move further away from the center viewing angle. Even if you place multiple configurations of home theater seating rows, the same thing applies. You want to be able to view the motion picture or a sporting even in comfort and that includes the movement of your head. This is an experience that should be enjoyed.…

Basement Remodel: Ideas to Make the Most Out of Your Space

If you currently have an unfinished or uncomfortable basement, you are missing out on valuable living space for your family. Hire a home construction expert to help you transform that unlivable space into a showplace within your home. With a basement remodel, you can transform your dark, dingy basement into a beautiful room that everyone will want to spend time in.

Basements can be used for a variety of purposes. Often, the biggest problem homeowners have when deciding to remodel their basement is determining what the room will be used for. Depending on the size, you may be able to add walls to create separate areas within the room. No matter what you decide to do with the space, you will appreciate the appeal and value that a remodeled basement adds to your home. Listed below are some ideas for transforming your basement into a beautiful, functional space.

Family Room: Many homeowners want to have a space where the whole family can spend time together. A large open floor plan allows plenty of room for all of your loved to gather.

Exercise Room: Getting to the gym a few days a week can be a hassle. With your own exercise facility in your home, there is no reason to put off that much-needed workout. Attach a TV to the wall and install a state-of-the-art audio system to make your exercise routine fly by.

Playroom: If you have young children, you may need more space for all of their toys and games. A basement playroom gives them plenty of room to move around while keeping their mess out of the main living space. Your kids will love the extra room and you will appreciate the fact that your visitors will not see the mess. Add a pool table or dartboard for grown up play as well.

Home Theater or Media Room: A basement is a great place to create a home theater or media room. Because of its underground location, you are able to easily darken the room for movie time. Your family and friends will love watching the latest flick in your comfortable room.

Spare Bedroom or Master Suite: If you need more sleeping room in your home, a basement remodel is a great way to create a beautiful guest room or master suite. You can include a spa-like bathroom to make it a place you enjoy spending time. This is also a great idea if you have adult children or older parents who need to live with you for a time. They have the benefit of enjoying their own private space while still being close to the family.

Home Office: Many Americans are able to work from home at least part-time these days. Transform your basement into a high-tech home office where you can have the privacy you need to take care of business. A separate entrance can be installed so that your business associates can stop by without disturbing the family.

No matter what your vision for your basement, a home construction professional in your area will help you make your dream a reality. Ask friends and family for a referral or check your local Better Business Bureau. Find a contractor that makes you feel comfortable and is qualified and experienced in basement remodels.…

Bedbugs are brown to reddish-brown. They have a flattened body and are oval; they can easily hide in small cracks. Bedbugs like hiding in isolated dark areas, in wardrobes, under cabinets, and bed frames. Bed Bugs hide during the day and come out at night to feed. If they infest your house, you should contact the Bed Bug Control MA.

The following is a list of what to do and what not to do in bed bug control.

 

The Dos:

 

Declutter your house

Bedbugs hide in clutters, so as much as possible, declutter your house. Don’t store anything under your bed; the floor should be as tidy as possible. When the home is clean, it’s easy to search for the bedbugs and destroy them.

 

Encase your mattress

Encasing the mattress and box springs helps in trapping the bedbugs, keeping them inside, and ensuring they don’t bite. Encasing also makes it easier to spot the bedbugs’ hideout and makes it easier to kill them. Encasing your mattress is the best way to ensure that bed bugs don’t make a home for themselves.

 

Vacuuming the bedbugs

Vacuuming is the most effective way of removing the bedbugs. When vacuuming, ensure the floor, nooks, and crannies of the furniture have been cleaned. The cracks and isolated dark corners should be cleaned since this is where bed bugs hide.

 

Create an educated plan

The best way to eradicate the bedbugs is to have an educated plan, where you can decide to either call the bedbug control MA or to do it yourself. You should clearly understand your treatment options and put together a strategy to eradicate them in your plan.

 

What Not to do during bedbugs control:

 

Shifting to a new bed or room

When dealing with bedbugs, don’t shift to another room: this makes the bedbugs spread to other places. Bedbugs are attracted to body heat and the carbon dioxide that we exhale. Don’t sleep on the sofa -set since they will find you when they go hungry.

 

Escaping to a relative or friend’s place

Bedbugs can survive without feeding anything for about 18 months. Running to a friend’s house to starve the bedbugs will not help. It can only work if you live there for a year and a half. Bedbugs are notorious at hitchhiking, so they will be waiting for you to come back.

Throwing out the bed /bedding

When the bed has been infested with bedbugs, most people think that the best way is to throw it away. Hauling the infested bedding and mattresses can do more harm since they can spread in the house. The bedbugs can remain in the cracks or carpet once you purchase a new bed; they infest the new one as they had done in the old one.

 

Eradicating the bedbugs, yourself

Unless you cannot access the bed bug control MA, don’t eradicate bedbugs yourself. If you have to eradicate the bedbugs yourself, make sure you understand all the needed information on pest management. Create a plan that will effectively workout.

 

Scratching bed bug bites

Once bitten by bedbugs, avoid scratching the bites since it worsens, leading to infection. You should seek treatment.

 

Using heat treatment, yourself

Heat treatments are useful since they kill the bedbugs and their eggs, but the treatment is also dangerous. Heat treatments are harmful since many house fires and injuries result from people trying to kill the bedbugs themselves. The heat treatment requires licensed professionals and specialized treatment. Folks should not try them on their own.

 

Using bed bug repellents

It’s dangerous to use bed bug repellents when living in a bedbug-infested house. The repellents reduce the number of bites while the bedbugs continue feeding on the host and multiplying.

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