There’s nothing more frustrating in a smart home than seeing that little grayed-out icon with the words “Device is unresponsive.” As a Smart Home Integrator, this is a problem I’m …
How to Fix “Device is Unresponsive” in Google Home App Read More
The single most common and frustrating problem my clients face isn’t a device failing completely, but one that is maddeningly unreliable. It’s the smart light that’s “unresponsive” in the app, …
Why Does My Smart Device Keep Disconnecting from Wi-Fi? (And How to Fix It) Read More
I’ve configured, installed, and troubleshooted hundreds of Amazon Echo devices. They are the workhorses of the voice-controlled home. But like any piece of technology, there are times when they act …
How to Factory Reset Your Amazon Echo Dot (And When You Should) Read More
You just brought home a new smart plug, a fancy smart light, or maybe a voice assistant. The excitement is real! You unbox it, plug it in, and the first …
How to Create a Guest Wi-Fi Network for Your Smart Devices Read More
I’ve seen firsthand which upgrades provide the most significant return on investment. While flashy lights and smart speakers are fun, nothing impacts your daily comfort and your wallet quite like …
Installing a Smart Thermostat (like Google Nest): A DIY Guide Read More
I can confidently say that the combination of Philips Hue lights and Amazon Alexa is the “peanut butter and jelly” of the smart home world. It’s one of the most …
How to Connect Philips Hue Lights to Amazon Alexa: A Step-by-Step Guide Read More
One of the first things new clients tell me after getting a Google Nest speaker is, “I love it for playing music and setting timers, but I feel like I’m …
How to Set Up Your First Google Home Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide Read More
Clients often come to me with a goal of making their homes more convenient or secure. But one of the most satisfying “Aha!” moments I get to witness is when …
How I Use Smart Plugs to Monitor My Energy Consumption Read More
I’ve installed thousands of devices. But if you ask me which piece of tech has had the most profound, positive impact on my clients’ daily lives—and my own—the answer is …
Using Smart Blinds to Wake Up Naturally with the Sun Read More
One of the first and most impactful automations I build for my clients is the “Welcome Home” scene. There’s a universal, almost primal discomfort in returning to a dark, silent, …
How to Create an Automated Welcome Home Scene Read More