Bringing convenience home with Smart Switches

Authored by Saurabh Goel, President, Havells India ‘Smart homes’ is not just a phrase in vogue anymore. According to Statista, revenue in smart homes market in the country is expected to show a CAGR of 22.9%, resulting in a market volume of USD 7102 million by 2023. With higher discretionary spends, growing internet penetration and Internet of Things (IoT) gaining more prominence with smart devices such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa, traditional way of living is getting a modern makeover – at the flick of a button!   Switches are intrinsic features of a building’s electrical system. While initially switches were quite functional, helping users to control electrical equipment in the room, today they have evolved exponentially to become technologically advanced devices. From being plugged into wireless technology and being controlled remotely from a smartphone to sporting programmable dimmers and timers, there are wide arrays of technological innovations to choose from.   As consumer propensity to install smart home solutions continues to grow, let’s have a look at some new and upcoming trends that are re-defining switchgear usage.   Smart manoeuvring with motion sensors and foot-light modules Visiting restrooms or kitchens during night-time can often be trouble-some, especially for the elderly and children. Foot-lamps with motion sensors can sense movement of the user and lit up pathways accordingly. Convenient, responsive and functional, these devices help residents avoid undue obstructions or accidents easily.   The advantage of an USB charger – on your switchboard Over the past decade, we have seen a proliferation of smart phones, laptops and smart home assistants. Most of these devices are hooked on to USB chargers for a lion’s share of the day to avoid being drained of battery. Today, it is imperative to integrate USB ports in switchboards that can recharge gadgets faster with AC supply, while ensuring seamless connectivity always. Not to mention, this also eliminates the hassle of carrying separate USB chargers while at home or office.   Enhance connectivity with wireless doorbells Wireless remote doorbells, available in multiple DIY tunes, have a wide-ranging access and are highly utilitarian in large, multi-floored houses. Even for incapacitated patients in home care, these devices bring many benefits as he can call for help with the help of a remote at any point in time. With integration of camera, smartphone integration and hi-definition video, one can also monitor callers with more scrutiny.   Go vertical at small spaces Many urbane homes and offices, being built in premium locations, have real estate in limited supply due to high costs. Therefore, while designing homes, utility of space is a key concern and criteria. With horizontal arrangement, switches often get located in obscure nooks and corners and are difficult to operate. Innovatively designed electrical switches can be fitted vertically in limited spaces – being as wide as 6 inches. Easy to install, sleek looking and affordable, the switches are a smart way to redesign any spaces.   However, it is also essential to ensure safety by ensuring the right switch for the right electrical load. For example, in the kitchen, the wiring & switch/socket specification of a microwave is 16Amp whereas it is 6Amp for a refrigerator. Also, to ensure child safety, all sockets must be fitted with safety shutters to avoid any unfortunate incidents. Electrical switch plates are often susceptible to be the birthing ground for bacteria and germs, as they are exposed to rampant usage. Hence, to reduce chances of infections, anti-bacterial switch plates can maintain hygiene and well-being for the entire family. ROHS compliant electrical switches, made with green and recyclable material, ensure longevity and helps contribute our bit for a greener and more sustainable environment. Smart switches amplify the smart home ecosystem. As the market continues to evolve and Indians inch towards a more connected lifestyle, faster uptake of evolved, modernized and IoT-enabled switchgear will re-shape modern living.