Protect Your Home with These 7 Essential Smart Home Maintenance Habits

Seven Essential Smart Home Maintenance Habits for Homeowners

In today's world, smart home technology plays a crucial role in enhancing home security and convenience. From video doorbells and new smart locks to leak detectors and connected smoke alarms, homeowners rely on these devices daily. However, many don't realize that without regular maintenance, these systems can fail when they are needed the most. As smart home devices become integral components of our homes, it is essential to adopt smart maintenance habits.

Mercury Insurance underscores the importance of routine upkeep for connected devices. Adam Bakonis, the Homeowners Product Manager at Mercury Insurance emphasizes, "Smart home technology gives homeowners another layer of awareness, but only if it's working properly." Here are the seven smart home maintenance habits recommended by Mercury Insurance that every homeowner should adopt:

1. Enable Automatic Software Updates

Keeping your smart devices operating optimally requires that you keep their software up to date. Manufacturers frequently release updates to improve performance, enhance security, and fix any bugs. To simplify this process, enable automatic updates, ensuring your devices remain functional without requiring your constant attention.

2. Change Batteries Proactively

Many smart devices, such as locks and sensors, operate on batteries. Instead of waiting for a low battery alert—which may happen at the most inconvenient time—follow the manufacturer's recommendations for battery replacement. This is especially important if you are planning to be away for an extended period.

3. Regularly Test Your Devices

It's not enough to merely check if connected devices show up in your smartphone app. Periodically testing your smart locks, smoke alarms, leak detectors, and cameras is crucial. Ensure they are functioning correctly and sending alerts as intended.

4. Verify Device Connectivity

Every change in your home network, whether it’s a new Wi-Fi provider or a router upgrade, could inadvertently disconnect your smart devices. After making any network changes, confirm that all connected devices are properly integrated back into the network and operating smoothly with their corresponding apps.

5. Review Access Permissions

As your family dynamics change, so may the individuals accessing your smart home systems. Regularly review and update access permissions to ensure that only current and necessary users can manage your home automation tools. Remove outdated users and devices without active use to keep everything organized.

6. Check Notification Settings

Updates to phone operating systems, app revisions, and new devices can inadvertently alter your notification preferences. It is advisable to periodically check that essential alerts from your devices—like security camera alerts and smoke alarm notifications—are still enabled and effectively reaching you.

7. Conduct an Annual Review

Set aside time at least once a year to review your smart home system. During this review, assess each device’s functionality and relevance—remove devices that no longer serve a purpose, confirm that automations are performing as expected, and ensure app permissions are correctly configured. This annual maintenance can significantly enhance the efficiency and security of your smart home.

Bakonis concludes, "Homeowners already recognize the necessity of cleaning gutters and maintaining HVAC systems. Smart home technologies should be approached with the same level of care." Consistent maintenance of connected devices not only safeguards your home but ensures that they operate effectively when you need them the most. For a plethora of home maintenance tips and insurance resources, consider visiting Mercury Insurance's Resource Center for more details.

About Mercury Insurance

Founded in 1962, Mercury Insurance (NYSE MCY) is a multi-line insurance provider that offers a variety of personal and commercial insurance options through independent agents in several states, including California, Texas, and New York. The company strives to deliver exceptional value by combining competitive rates with outstanding customer service, thereby earning various commendations in the industry. For additional information, visit www.MercuryInsurance.com.