(NC) In today’s tech-savvy world, staying up-to-date with the latest trends can make life more convenient — especially at home. In fact, a recent Statista study found that the number of smart homes in Canada will rise to 31.5 per cent by 2022 from 13.9 per cent in 2018.

The benefits include savings, safety, convenience and control over what’s happening in your home. And it’s easier than you might think. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Get a virtual assistant. With Amazon Echo, Google Home or other virtual assistant technology, you get anything done simply by asking – from changing a song to dimming the lights or turning down the heat. Stay cozy on the couch and let your VA do the work for you.
2. Control your climate. Nest offers an array of smart products like thermostats, cameras and more to keep your home and family comfortable and environmentally responsible. Products like the Nest Thermostat E can help you save an average of 10 to 12 per cent on heating bills and 15 per cent on cooling bills.
3. Boost existing technology. Roost battery 2.0 is a Wi-Fi-enabled battery that can transform your regular smoke detector into a smart device. Simply plug it in and the battery sends an alert to your smartphone when smoke is detected. With a battery life of up to five years, you can set it and forget it.
4. Plug in with peace of mind. WeMo smart plugs give you control over all your devices, including lights and appliances. Say goodbye to the days when you would ask yourself, “Did I unplug the iron?” With smart plugs, you can have peace of mind from anywhere.
5. Use a reliable ISP. If you’ve acquired the pieces to create a smart home, don’t forget about the most important component — reliable internet. By connecting your smart devices to a dependable network, you can control your smart devices securely and seamlessly. Check out Shaw’s BlueCurve Home app, which allows you to set custom profiles and control all your Wi-Fi-enabled devices in one spot – perfect for helping you managed your new connected life.