Save Money on Heating Bills this Winter

As the weather cools down, many of us will be thinking about how to manage the cost of heating our home without compromising our comfort. If you have a smart home, the answer could already be at your fingertips. 

Home automation is getting easier and offers many benefits such as an added level of safety and security, plus simple control of everyday home systems, but there's one benefit you might not be aware of.  

External vs. Internal Window Coverings

It's no secret that bare, or inadequately insulated, windows leave your home prone to the cold during winter, but have you considered the unique advantages of external vs internal window coverings?  

While both will help you retain heat in your home, external window coverings can block the wind and chill before it even reaches the glass. External coverings, such as screens, awnings, roller shutters or venetians, prevent the cold from entering your home, while internal coverings keep the heat inside. When paired together, they will ensure your home stays nice and toasty. 

Sensors

For parts of Australia, our homes can still feel cold even if our winters are relatively mild.  

Our days tend to be warmer, so it’s a good idea to keep window coverings open during the day to capture some of the sun's warmth. However, this can become an issue when the sun sets before you get home, leaving you with a cold house. This is where sensors step in. 

Somfy's new range of motors with Zigbee 3.0 technology can be linked with smart sun sensors or smart thermostats from major brands, through TaHoma Switch, provided they use Zigbee 3.0 technology. Set your blinds to open during the day to let in the heat, and close as the sun begins to go down to retain warmth, ensuring a comfortable home environment. 

Automation

For the ultimate convenience, automate your window furnishings to reduce reliance on expensive, artificial heating this winter. Control your window coverings from anywhere in the world and set timers for your blinds, awnings and shutters to open and close at your desired times. Never worry about forgetting to open the blinds before leaving for work and set your external screens or roller blinds to close at sunset as the temperature drops.  

Somfy's new smart shading range with Zigbee 3.0 technology, easily integrated with the TaHoma switch, allows seamless connectivity and control through an app on your phone or at the command of your voice through Google, Amazon or Apple voice assistants. Reduce the strain on your heating system, and the added cost of your heating bills, and enjoy a perfectly comfortable home environment. Automation not only enhances your comfort but also benefits the environment by reducing energy consumption and your carbon footprint. 

Interested in Home Automation Solutions?

Somfy’s innovative solutions make it simple to automate everyday tasks, even when you’re not home. Stay ahead of rising energy costs by making your home smarter and more efficient with Somfy's automation and Smart Shading solutions. Connect with us to discover how our new range of products featuring Zigbee 3.0 technology, and the TaHoma switch, can transform your living space.