Survey: Security Top of Mind for Consumers Interested in Home Automation

Survey: Security Top of Mind for Consumers Interested in Home Automation

More than 62 percent of online consumers interested in learning more about home automation cited security as their primary purchase motivation, according to new research by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). Consumer Perspective on Home Automation, released today, found that almost half (49 percent) of consumers are familiar with home automation systems that allow them to remotely monitor and control one or more technology system in their homes.
“There is room for industry growth, with just 1.7 million households indicating they currently have a home automation system installed in their residence,” said Rhonda Daniel, CEA’s manger, market research, “The more consumers know about home automation, the more likely they are to adopt the technology in their homes. Our industry must work together to develop clear product descriptions and educate consumers about what these technologies can do in order to increase adoption of these systems.”
Research indicates that features focused on safety and security should be the building blocks of home automation packages offered by the industry. Consumers expressed interest in capabilities that would allow them to remotely monitor and control one or more systems in their homes. More than half of consumers said they are interested in the following features: receiving alerts if smoke detectors go off (59 percent); receiving alerts if someone enters or exits the home (55 percent); remotely seeing someone at the front door (58 percent); and being able to adjust the lights while away (52 percent).

Despite an increase in “do it yourself” home automation products in recent years, 67 percent of consumers preferred professional installation over the DIY route (27 percent). Three-fourths of those interested in the professional installation route indicated that it’s “very important” for the installer to be certified.