Welcome to TLC Electrical's – Home Automation Solutions

Yes, many modern smart-home platforms include learning features that monitor how, when and where you use lighting, heating, security or entertainment systems. Over a few weeks the system will start to recognise patterns (for example, you dim lights every evening, or you activate your outdoor lights when arriving home). Then it can prompt suggestions or automatically adjust schedules for you. This means fewer manual tweaks over time and the system becomes more in tune with your habits.

Typically no full redo is required, but you’ll want to ensure your smart-home network remains secure and strong. After changing providers or hardware, you should update your hub and device firmware, verify that all devices reconnect properly to the new network, and check that the signal strength in key areas (like basement, outdoor patio, garage) is sufficient. If you added many devices later on, you may need a stronger router or mesh network to maintain responsiveness.

Absolutely. There are retro-fit options such as smart plugs, smart switch modules, IR-blasters, and hub bridge devices that allow older fixtures, lamps, or systems to work within your automation framework. For example, your existing ceiling lights might be controlled via a smart switch rather than replacing the whole fixture. This approach often saves cost and lets you build up your system gradually.

During a power outage or if your internet goes down, the automation system may revert to local manual control. However, advanced setups offer battery backups or local-hub operation so basic functions (lighting, door locks, alarms) continue working even offline. It’s wise to plan for which systems you want to stay active and ensure the installer includes backup power for critical components (hub, network switch, door access) if continuity matters to you.

Security should be built in from the start. Key practices include: using strong, unique passwords for each device; enabling two-factor authentication where available; segmenting your network (putting smart-home devices on a separate network from your main computers); regularly applying firmware updates; and auditing device permissions (e.g., voice assistants, camera access). It’s also wise to review the privacy policy of each branded device you use, to understand how data is collected, stored and used.