CheckMag | 3 smart home gadgets with insurance savings potential
1. Smart water leak detectors
Water damage is one of the leading causes of homeowner insurance claims, with an estimated one in sixty homes filing for a claim, according to Consumer Affairs. As such, a homeowner facing plumbing issues could benefit from a smart water leak detector that sends a notification whenever it detects moisture. Sensors, such as the Resideo RCHW3610, offer capabilities that extend beyond detecting water leaks and can send alerts if they detect excess humidity, alerting homeowners to ideal conditions for mold growth. Resideo is also in a partnership with USAA, which has a program to help policyholders enroll their smart devices.
2. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Like other smart devices, Smart smoke detectors have built on the device's core functionality to bring homeowners additional peace of mind. Devices like the X-Sense FS31 for multi-room monitoring or the X-Sense SC07 with carbon monoxide detection can send users notifications whenever the system is triggered. These smoke detectors also feature quality-of-life enhancements, including in-app alarm testing and the ability to dispatch emergency services with the optional Protect+ plan. Additionally, AAA insurance lists smart smoke detectors among smart home devices that may help lower premiums.
3. Smart thermostats
Moving beyond the cozy benefits of having a smart thermostat, some homeowners may be surprised by the potential savings that come with using one. While improving home energy usage alone can help save money, smart thermostats can help mitigate potential issues like mold growth and freezing water pipes by automatically adjusting the household temperature and humidity to address these hazards. Devices like the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential feature all the hallmarks of smart devices, including app control, assistant integration, and dynamic temperature control, while also meeting the smart home requirements of insurers like American Family Insurance.
While these devices may be valuable to homeowners in their own right, it is essential to check with insurance companies first if they are being purchased in anticipation of receiving a discount, as plans and benefits are constantly changing. For more information on the devices and plans listed, kindly visit the resources below.
Source(s)
Amazon(1)(2)(3)(4), USAA, AAA, American Family Insurance, Consumer Affairs
