Smart Home Technology Survey Findings
More than 80% of American households now incorporate smart technology like refrigerators, doorbells, and robot vacuums. A survey of 5,000 homeowners revealed that, on average, they’ve spent over $2,000 on internet-connected devices and appliances in the last five years.
Interestingly, 55% of participants expressed a desire to expand their smart technologies within the next year. Currently, 58% own a smart TV, 35% have doorbells that notify them of visitors, and 14% own refrigerators that alert them when supplies run low. Other popular items include smart speakers at 36%, robot vacuums at 22%, and smart locks at 15%.
The study highlighted that 17% of smart technology owners are early adopters, meaning they tend to buy new products soon after they hit the market. Conversely, 52% prefer to wait until these devices have established reliability.
One in ten individuals replaces or upgrades their smart home tech annually, while 37% do so every two to five years.
When it comes to desired features, real-time alerts or notifications are sought by 38%, followed closely by battery backup or power outage safety at 36%, and remote voice or app control at 33%. Additionally, about 22% feel their current setups could offer greater convenience and customization.
A significant 21% stated their lives would greatly enhance if smart devices increased in these aspects, alongside protection features.
Looking ahead, smart lighting is the most wanted technology, with 22% planning to invest further. Other items on the wish list include door locks with keyless entry (17%), indoor (14%) and outdoor security cameras (20%), and water leak detectors (8%).
The survey also explored barriers to purchasing smart devices, finding that cost is the most significant hurdle for 53% of respondents. Privacy and security concerns affected 33%, while 23% cited worries about potential glitches.
Interestingly, 60% reported a rise in their utility bills over the past year, and 32% of smart tech owners prioritized energy efficiency in their purchasing decisions. In fact, 64% of all surveyed considered energy efficiency and its financial benefits when weighing new device costs.
Moreover, 40% of those without smart technology indicated that energy efficiency would be a crucial factor in future acquisitions. About 31% of respondents are exploring better ways to track their home energy use.
A spokesperson from Vivint noted, “These findings underscore that energy efficiency is a major priority for consumers, alongside privacy and security, in establishing a smart home.”
They added that while smart technology helps save time and reduce stress, its role in managing energy and costs is increasingly vital. “As homeowner needs evolve, so too must our technology to ensure comfort, convenience, and peace of mind.”
Top 20 Smart Technologies:
- Smart TV or streaming hub
- Smart speaker/voice assistant
- Smart doorbell
- Outdoor security camera
- Smart thermostat
- Indoor security camera
- Smart lighting
- Robot vacuum cleaner
- Smart plug or outlet
- Smart lock/keyless entry
- Smart washer and dryer
- Smart refrigerator
- Smart garage door opener
- Smart smoke or carbon monoxide detector
- Smart door/window sensor
- Smart air conditioner/heat pump
- Smart oven or range
- Smart dishwasher
- Smart fitness equipment (treadmills, bikes, etc.)
- Smart home hub/controller
