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Discover the Best Energy Management Solutions for the Holidays

A person dressed in warm clothing with snow falling around them and string lights laced above them.

Keep the Party Going with Backup Energy Systems

Architects are at the forefront of pioneering green homes and combatting climate change. Their designs touch upon every aspect of a home's energy needs, from the direction of the windows to their window coverings, the integration of solar panels and other renewable energy, and the system that manages all the power sources, from the grid to green energy and the backup generator.

But what about the basics and some of the year's most important celebrations and family gatherings? What about the energy management solutions for the holidays? No one wants to be that guy, the Clark Griswold of the family that plugs the Christmas lights in only to cause a power surge and a total blackout.

Let's explore the best backup energy solutions that ensure an uninterrupted holiday gathering. 

Catch Santa in the Act with the Right Security Systems

A dog detected by a smart security camera in a holiday-decorated living room, holding a Santa hat. Alarm.com notification displayed.

Let Technology Bring More Magic to the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Every year, we all wonder about the magic of Santa's arrival. How does he sneak in, leave presents, and vanish without a trace? How come his reindeer gracefully land on the ceiling without anyone hearing a thing? Well, this year, thanks to cutting-edge smart security technology, families can finally catch a glimpse of the jolly man in red—and maybe even have a quick chat!

Dive into this blog to explore how modern security systems can help you add a bit of extra holiday magic to your Christmas Eve. 

Why Your New Build in Sonoma Needs Complete Solar Plans

A home with solar panels on the roof.

Solar Plans Must Be Submitted with the Building Permit Application!

California has long been a leader in solar and renewable energy. To reach its goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2045, it needs to triple its solar power capacity. To accomplish this, the state has passed several laws, including the California solar mandate, requiring all new homes built in 2020 and beyond to have rooftop solar photovoltaic systems. This system must be able to generate all the energy the home needs over the course of a year.

Now, in Sonoma County, a new regulation regarding solar power took effect on October 1, 2024. It's the reason why your new build needs complete solar plans when you submit your permit.

Here, we'll explore the details, how it's affecting new builds, and how the team at Summit Technology Group can help. Keep reading to find out!

Setting Up Your Outdoor Speaker System Before the Cold Weather Hits

SUTEGR_SEPT_GLOWBlog4_OutdoorSpeakers_CoeurdaleneIdaho_PHOTO A Coastal Source Speaker among outdoor foliage.

Create Your Ideal Outdoor Media Setup in Time

As the seasons change and temperatures drop, it's the perfect time to set up your outdoor speaker system. Whether you love hosting outdoor gatherings, relaxing in your backyard with music, or enhancing your patio with ambient sound, an outdoor audio setup can transform your Coeur d'Alene, Idaho space.

Before cold weather limits your outdoor time, here are some key steps to ensure your outdoor speaker system is ready for any season.

SEE ALSO: Discover The Importance of Home Wiring Services

Powering Through: Why Solar Panels Alone Aren't Enough for Energy Independence

A modern home with a pitched tile roof covered with solar panels.

The Promise – and Limitations – of Solar Energy

Solar panels have become very popular as a supplemental energy source for various reasons. For many, adopting a clean, renewable energy source helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels. For others, government and utility subsidies provide a powerful incentive to make the necessary up-front investment. And for those in areas where the energy grid might be unstable in weather events or high-usage times, solar provides an effective backup. But if you're thinking that solar power is your gateway to energy independence, solar panel systems alone may not be enough. Here's why.

Ensure the Upcoming Holidays Are Stress-Free with a Backup Generator

A group of people outside in a circle toasting with their drinks.

Keep the Power on No Matter the Weather

Today, we tend to take our everyday lives for granted as technology leads us to quiet expectations. We expect the lights to turn on when we flip a switch, the TV to turn on when we press a button, and our cars to start when our fobs tell it to.

It is said that we don't realize we'll miss something until it's gone. There is no more true statement than when it comes to our home's electricity. One of the first thoughts racing through our mind is, "How long will it be out, and should I get ice for the refrigerator?"

When it happens during the holidays or in the event of a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) that lasts for days, the effects can be much worse. Now, you're faced with unhappy guests, no entertainment, and a household without heat or air conditioning. If you live in a smart home, much of your interconnectivity and the ability to manage your house is gone.

There is, however, a solution. It's called a backup generator, and it's designed for moments such as these, running your critical appliances and HVAC system. Here, we'll explore why more homeowners in Santa Rosa, CA, are turning to these generators in preparation for potential power outages. 

Building a New Home and Need a Solar System?

A home with solar panels installed on the roof.

Discover How We Can Help You Navigate Title 24 Requirements 

As energy efficiency becomes more important for homeowners, thousands of families all over Sonoma County and the rest of California are turning to solar energy to make their homes and lifestyle more sustainable and eco-friendly. To aid them in this endeavor, Title 24, California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards, creates a foundation for new home constructions and renovations to minimize energy consumption.

While solar energy is a key player in meeting these goals, truly successful solar energy systems should have the right size to satisfy your unique energy needs. For this reason, we highly recommend enlisting an expert who can help you determine what kind -and size- of solar energy system will suit your new home the most and maximize your long-term savings.

Keep reading this blog to explore all the ways our team of professionals at Summit Technology Group will keep Title 24 requirements into account to guide you on the road to a more energy-efficient home. 

Bring Luxury to Your Designs with Architectural Technology

A luxury dining room with a modern interior design and architectural lighting in the ceiling.

Increase the Value of Your Projects with Innovative Solutions That Elevate Beauty and Sophistication

As design trends evolve, the demand for spaces that integrate high-end technology has never been greater. Architects and interior designers are no longer just creating visually stunning environments; they are also tasked with incorporating the latest in smart home technology, audio-visual systems, and lighting solutions in ways that preserve the aesthetic integrity of their designs. This is where architectural technology comes into play.

Architectural technology is discreet, built-in technology designed to enhance a space’s functionality without disrupting the design. If you are looking to modernize your projects, finding a technology partner who understands how to deliver this delicate balance is crucial to creating a design that will wow your clients.

In this blog, we explore how architectural technology can be a key element in modern design and how Summit Technology Group can help you incorporate these features seamlessly into your next project in Sonoma County, CA. Let’s dive in!

Discover the Benefits of Pre-Wiring for Audio Video Systems in Your Sonoma Home

A bedroom with picture windows overlooking the mountains, an in-ceiling speaker, and a TV emerging from the ceiling.

Pre-wiring in the Design Phase Ensures Lower Costs and Greater Functionality

The initial design, planning, and building phase of a new home can be exciting. It’s when all the elements, from lighting and paint colors to furniture and architectural features, come together to reflect your vision. Amidst these decisions, one crucial aspect often overlooked is pre-wiring—a foundational step to enhance your home’s comfort, convenience, security, and entertainment capabilities.

For homeowners in Sonoma, CA, planning for pre-wiring early in the process ensures streamlined integration with today’s technology while allowing room for future upgrades. Below, we’ll explore the importance of home wiring services and why starting this phase at the beginning of your project can save both time and money. This pre-wiring is the backbone for audio, video, and other systems, seamlessly supporting the latest in-home technology. 

How Home Automation Simplifies Your Routine This Back-to-School

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Discover how the innovative solutions of a home automation company can be a game-changer this school year!

As summer winds down and the school bells start ringing, families in Sonoma and all over California are gearing up for the hustle and bustle of a new academic year. With packed schedules, homework, and extracurricular activities, it can be a challenge to keep everything organized and running smoothly. Luckily, that is just another thing home automation can help you with! 

Join us in this blog as we explore all the benefits a professional home automation company can bring to streamline your daily routines and set you up for a successful school year.

Discover Your Average Solar Panel Lifespan

A home with solar panels on the roof.

Reduce Energy Usage and Create a Greener Home

Those of you with existing home solar systems know the benefits they bring. From lower energy bills to reducing your home's carbon footprint and reliance on the power grid, there's no going back once you've used green energy to power your home. It's like listening to your favorite song from high-fidelity speakers for the first time. Once you experience it, hearing it any other way pales in comparison. And so it is with solar systems and green energy.

Like everything, however, these systems wear out. While a solar panel's lifespan may reach 25 years or more, its efficiency varies as time goes on, depending on the manufacturer and other variables. Here, we'll explore the signs that suggest you need an upgrade and the regulations that can help you obtain one. 

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How a Professional Electrician Hides Cabling, Outlets, and Electronics

A kitchen with a power strip that pulls up from a countertop, hiding when not in use.

Retain Your Home’s Aesthetics While Embracing the Latest Technology

One of the greatest challenges in today’s luxury homes is finding a wall outlet for the many connected devices. Without careful attention to detail and design, your home’s aesthetics are overshadowed by receptacles and sockets, detracting from the interior beauty you intended.

That’s where Summit Technology Group comes in. As designers, engineers, professional electricians, and automation experts, we cover the gamut of today’s luxury smart home living. Not only do we install and program many automated systems, but we also ensure the connections to your power are nearly invisible, blending in seamlessly. 

As decluttering, minimalism, and streamlined aesthetics take center stage, hidden technology and electrical connections become increasingly in demand. Here, we’ll explore the unique opportunities to enjoy easy connectivity and enhanced technology without marring your home’s design in Sonoma, CA.

Discover the Benefits of Working with an Electrician Near Me

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Ensure the Highest Level of Safety, Functionality, and Design for Your Smart Home

Are you getting ready to upgrade your smart home? Or, perhaps you’re starting your first home automation project, incorporating a central platform that manages your home’s lighting, climate, security, entertainment, and more. No matter the scope or your project, at one point, preferably in the design phase, you’ll begin your search for an electrician near me in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. 

While many home automation integrations legally require a professional, certified electrician, there are other reasons that you want a licensed electrician on your team. Here, we’ll explore what these professionals offer and how they help keep you and your home safe. 

3 Things You Should Look For to Get the Best Outdoor Speaker System

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Turn up the music this summer and all year long!

Summer is here, and with it comes the season of backyard barbecues, pool parties, and evening gatherings under the stars. During these times, outdoor spaces become the perfect settings for socializing and creating lasting memories. Music is one of the key elements to elevate these moments, transforming your outdoor space into a lively and inviting environment. Whether you're hosting a lively bash or a laid-back evening with friends and family, having a high-quality outdoor speaker system ensures that your favorite tunes sound as good outside as they do indoors.

To ensure you get the best audio experience, investing in a high-quality outdoor speaker system is essential. Keep reading this blog to learn what you should look for to find the perfect setup to enjoy your summer festivities in Santa Rosa, CA.

4 Features You Can Find in the Best Home Theater Designs

A luxury home theater displaying a western movie.

Create the best entertainment experience with innovative tech solutions!

What is the secret to creating the best home theater design? For some, it might be high-fidelity audio. For others, it's all about having a larger-than-life display. At Summit Technology Group, however, we believe it's about creating a comprehensive setup that truly immerses you in your favorite entertainment. These setups ofter require integrating not only the best AV solutions, but smart home systems that bring it all together and make the entire room more intuitive and enjoyable. 

Join us in this blog as we explore the unique features of every luxury home theater in Coeur d'Alene, ID. Let's dive in!

Stay Cool This Summer with an Attic Fan

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Discover Why a Professional Electrical Upgrade is Just What You Need to Spend a Comfortable Summer Season!

As the summer heat intensifies, homeowners all over California are seeking efficient and cost-effective ways to keep their homes cool. While traditional air conditioning units are common, they can be expensive to run and maintain. Luckily, an alternative solution that’s gaining popularity is the installation of attic fans. These fans are great tools to reduce indoor temperatures and boost energy efficiency. However, installing an attic fan is not a simple DIY project. It requires professional electrical upgrades to ensure safety and optimal performance.

Are you thinking of battling the heat in Sonoma, CA, with an attic fan? Explore how Summit Technology Group can help you with our high-end installations!

Optimize Your Power With a Smart Home Battery Installation

A luxury home powered by Tesla battery systems.

Combine a Backup Battery With Your Power Management System in Your Sonoma, CA, Home

Energy efficiency and sustainability are top of mind for homeowners in Sonoma County. It's easy to see why. California residents face rising energy costs, a greater reliance on electronic devices, and frequent power outages and brownouts.

One of the best ways to achieve some energy independence is to install solar panels and smart home batteries. These devices guarantee reliable backup in case of an outage and make your home more energy efficient. How? That's exactly what this blog is about.

Discover how backup batteries are vital components of a good power management system and how they benefit your home.

5 Reasons You Should Upgrade Your Home's Electrical Wiring ASAP

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Call the Experts in Home Wiring Services and Protect your High-End Devices

Upgrading your home's electrical wiring might not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering home improvements, but it's a crucial step for ensuring safety, efficiency, and future-proofing your living space. As homes age, the wiring systems within them can become outdated and potentially hazardous. This not only poses risks to the safety of the household but also affects the overall performance of electrical devices.

Now that technology is present in more spaces in our homes and daily lives, the demand for electricity has significantly increased, and having a robust and modern electrical system is more important than ever. Whether you're experiencing frequent electrical issues, planning a major renovation, or simply looking to enhance your home's functionality, modernizing your wiring system offers numerous benefits. 

Let’s explore these benefits together and discover why trusting professional home wiring services to upgrade your electrical wiring is essential for any modern home in Santa Rosa, CA.

3 Types of Families That Need Home Solar Energy Systems ASAP

The image shows a large white building with a slanted roof covered in solar panels. The building is surrounded by dense greenery, including trees and vines growing up the walls.

Is Your Household in Desperate Need of This Eco-Friendly Energy Solution?

Adopting home solar energy systems has grown in popularity in the past few years, and for good reason. As technology advances and the cost of solar panels decreases, more families in Sonoma, CA, are considering the switch to renewable energy. While everyone can benefit in one way or another from the many benefits of these solutions, some households are already leading lifestyles that demand solar energy. 

Are you unsure if your family is one of those who should embrace solar power as soon as possible? Keep reading our blog to learn how these systems can positively impact your daily life.

4 Reasons You Need Outdoor Lighting Control Right Now

A modern, single-story house with a large patio and a swimming pool illuminated by a well-landscaped yard with outdoor lighting.

Discover How This Smart Technology Can Transform Your Summer!

The summer season is everyone’s favorite time to go outdoors and enjoy clear skies, birds chirping, and the nice smell of freshly cut grass. But what happens when the sun sets and the inviting warmth of the sun gets replaced by the chilly wind of the evening? For most people, this means it’s time to go back inside and forget about the beauty of nature. For the luxury homeowner, however, the fun doesn’t have to stop when dusk arrives! 

With outdoor lighting control, your summer evenings can be transformed into something magical. With the soft glow of strategically placed lights, illuminate your backyard for delightful outdoor dining, entertaining, relaxation, and even stargazing.

Let's explore how innovative outdoor lighting control solutions can elevate your summer nights and make every moment spent in your Sonoma, CA, outdoor space truly special.