The New Era of Home Automation
Home automation isn’t what it used to be. Up until 2014, most systems focused on simple wireless control of lights and shades. Today, we’re in an entirely different era.
Commercials make it look effortless—the smartly dressed man sits on his couch and says, “Hey Alexa, dim my living room lights.” Instantly, the lights dim, and he turns on his TV without lifting a finger. It seems so simple.
But can your system do that? Or do you find yourself wondering how it all works and what you need to make it happen?
Here’s what you need to know about the new generation of smart home technology.
Popular Smart Home Systems
Apple HomeKit
- Runs on iOS 10 or later
- Controls HomeKit accessories like Lutron Caseta Wireless
- Siri integration for voice commands
Amazon Echo
- Hands-free speaker with voice control
- Alexa handles tasks like ordering groceries or adjusting shades
Google Assistant
- Virtual assistant with two-way conversations
- Controls lighting, music, and smart devices
Samsung SmartThings
- Hub that connects hundreds of devices
- Works with lighting, speakers, locks, thermostats, and sensors
Nest Learning Thermostats
- Learns daily habits to optimize heating/cooling
- Connects to alarms for automatic “Away Mode”
Josh.AI
- Luxury home automation with advanced voice control
- Manages lighting, shades, audio/video, and more
Choosing the Right Lutron System
Lutron Caseta Wireless (For Small Homes)
- Ideal for homes up to 2,500 sq. ft. (30ft radius, max 50 devices)
- Supports dimmers, shades, fans, thermostats, and home audio
- Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, Nest, Sonos
- Wireless and expandable—start small and build over time
Lutron RadioRA 2 (For Larger Homes)
- No limit on square footage or devices
- Supports the same integrations as Caseta
- Typically installed as a whole-home system rather than in phases
Lutron HomeWorks QS (Luxury Home Automation)
- Advanced designer keypads and premium thermostat options (e.g., Palladiom)
- More automated shade options than Caseta or RadioRA 2
- Works with Josh.AI, in addition to all the other integrations
Do You Need an Upgrade?
If your system was installed before 2015, you may experience:
Compatibility issues with newer appliances Intermittent power outages Lack of internet connectivity
Legacy systems like HomeWorks Interactive, HomeWorks Illumination, or RadioRA Classic require an upgrade to access modern home automation features.
With HomeWorks QS and RadioRA 2, you can:
Control everything via voice activation or mobile apps Adjust home settings from anywhere in the world Automate tasks like adjusting lights, cooling your house before you arrive, or letting in service workers remotely
Additional Smart Home Integrations
Audio & Entertainment
- Sonos – Wireless speaker system
- Logitech Harmony Hub – Control lighting, shades, and media with one button
Automation & Security
- IFTTT (If This Then That) – Set conditions like lowering shades on sunny days
- Xfinity Home – Remote light control via mobile app
- Alarm.com / ELK Products – Security systems that trigger lights/shades for alerts
- Savant – High-end customizable home automation
Home Control Apps & Accessories
- iRule – Mobile app for AV, lighting, and smart devices
- Simple Control – Home automation app for TVs, Philips Hue, Nest, and more
- LaunchPort – iPad-based home control system
- RTI – Remotes and touchpads for home automation
Bring Your Home Into the Future
Lutron Electronics and Powerfull Systems can help you upgrade your home with the latest luxury smart home technology.
Make your day-to-day tasks intuitive and effortless Integrate cutting-edge home automation seamlessly Experience a more enjoyable and efficient home environment
Contact Powerfull Systems today to bring your home into the next era of automation!
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