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With 2011 in full swing, it’s time to examine trends in home technology for the year. Homeowners are looking to the future both in terms of technological advances and saving the environment…and money. As technology advances, so do ways to save today while still safeguarding the future.

Increased Integration

Ever-advancing technology means that more and more systems are becoming integrated. Smart phones and iPads, for instance, integrate into home technology systems. Smart phones and iPads now function to control lighting, AV equipment, and other systems using touch-screen models. Things like using a prepaid card to purchase make obtaining these products more accessible for everyone.

Going Green

More than ever, home technology is trending towards the environmentally-friendly. The government has focused homeowners with new initiatives, and systems that save on power and water usage are becoming the norm. Benefits abound—homeowners want to save money and heed their carbon footprint, and green technology allows them to do both. Taking steps like changing a washing machine or toilet to something more energy efficient is a step in the right direction.

Looking to the Future

In addition to going green, home technology trends demonstrate a gaze towards the future. It’s no secret that technology will continue to advance, calling for upgrades on the home front. 2011 shows that homeowners are upgrading wiring and cable systems to make sure their homes can keep up with future technological advancements. And with the increase of use of purchasing technology, such as prepaid cards, upgrading technology is possible for everyone.

With an eye on the future, 2011 home technology trends show homeowners integrating their systems and saving money by protecting the environment.