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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.

Discover Lutron Residential Lighting Control Systems

Ease of Use for Every Space in Your Home with Lutron Lighting Control

Create Stunning Lighting Scenes in Every Room

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of our daily lives and is often taken for granted. When you have control over the lighting in your home, it enhances the way you perform day-to-day activities. Lutron lighting control allows you to control all the lighting in your home in unique ways, greatly enhancing utility, comfort, and aesthetics in your Coeur D'Alene, ID or Sonoma, CA, home. Read on to learn more about Lutron light control for your home.

Prepare For the Holidays With a Home Theater Installation

Prepare For the Holidays With a Home Theater Installation

Enjoy Invaluable Family Time this Season In Your Personal Home Theater

The holidays are a special time, reminding us of what’s most important: quality time with family and friends. So many families love watching holiday movies together, and what better place to watch do that than in a dedicated home theater? You can bring some festive snacks, dim the lights, and enjoy all of your favorite holiday movies in your custom theater. Keep reading to see how a home theater installation can elevate your Bodega, CA, home this holiday season and year-round.

The Benefits of a Solar Energy Storage System for Your Smart Home

The Benefits of a Solar Energy Storage System for Your Smart Home

Keep Your Smart Home Up and Running with an Energy Storage System

In May 2022, California energy officials issued a warning, preparing residents for potential blackouts as the state’s energy grid faces a possible summer shortfall. Challenges include planned power outages, wildfires that cut off transmission lines, extreme heat events, and drought.

The good news is that California leads the U.S. in generating renewable energy and is the top producer of solar and geothermal energy. More good news: At Summit Technology Group, we provide homeowners in Healdsburg, CA, with a home energy storage system that ensures they have power despite California's energy grid shortfalls.

These are easily managed and less expensive than homeowners imagine. Let's explore what they entail and how to ensure your home is up and running during an outage.

Upgrade from a Power Strip to a Whole-Home Surge Protector

summit-oct-2021

How to Protect Your Home When Blackouts Occur 

Living in California certainly has its benefits. Beautiful weather, blue oceans, idyllic beaches, and majestic mountains are some of the many pleasures we enjoy. And, if you’re a luxury homeowner, it’s likely that you also enjoy smart technologies, such as automated lighting, motorized shades, a home theater, and other luxurious creature comforts. 

But here’s where your comfort and peace of mind are compromised—California’s notorious rolling blackouts. While they may seem like minor inconveniences, they can actually cause damage to your electronic devices and appliances through power surges. 

Keep reading to see how our electrical wiring company in Napa County, CA, can protect your valuable equipment with a whole-home surge protector. 

It's Wildfire Season – Are Your Power Outage Solutions Ready?

It's Wildfire Season – Are Your Power Outage Solutions Ready?

Prepare for Power Loss With These Solutions

Over the past decade, California has become a spark plug for wildfires throughout the dry summer and fall months. If you live in the Glen Ellen, CA area, you should be prepared for power outages due to PSPS or wildfire.

Losing power during wildfire season doesn't necessarily mean you're in immediate danger. Local power companies will shut down power lines that pass through high fire-threat areas to prevent igniting new fires. However, this practice means you could be without power fordays or even weeks during wildfire season. But no worries! With our power outage solutions, you can maintain a luxurious lifestyle even through an extended loss of power. Keep reading our blog to discover your options!

The Importance of Regular Electrical Service Panel Maintenance

[vc_row row_height_percent="0" override_padding="yes" h_padding="3" top_padding="3" bottom_padding="3" back_color="color-xsdn" overlay_alpha="50" gutter_size="3" column_width_percent="100" shift_y="0" z_index="0"][vc_column column_width_percent="100" gutter_size="3" style="light" overlay_alpha="50" shift_x="0" shift_y="0" shift_y_down="0" z_index="0" medium_width="0" mobile_width="0"][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602265942866{margin-bottom: 24px !important;}"]Your electrical service panel houses several circuit breakers that distribute electricity to different parts of your home. Over time, the service panel may become corroded, or dust may settle on different components. Dust, debris, or loose connections can cause your electrical panel to malfunction, putting your business or home at risk for tripped circuit breakers and power outages. To steer clear of these issues, maintain your electrical service panel regularly.

 

Electrical contractors in Sonoma County recommend having the service panel inspected and maintained by a contractor at least once every three years.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Why Maintain Your Service Panel?[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602265966910{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Your electrical service panel is the central distribution point for delivering electricity from the utility company to switches, outlets, and appliances in your home. A faulty electrical panel will not just damage electrical appliances connected to it, but can also pose a safety hazard.
Breakers and lose wires can cause overheating. If you do not move quickly to address the problem, it will snowball into a major concern, and you may end up spending a ton of money on expensive repairs.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]What is Done During a Maintenance Session?[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602265989759{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]During a maintenance session, your electrician will check for signs of rust, wear and tear, and corrosion. The professional will clean the different components of your panel.
They will check all necessary connections and conduct a thermal check to detect high temperatures, one of the most common indicators of electrical problems.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Signs Your Electrical Service Panel Needs to Be Maintained or Replaced[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602270774692{margin-top: 24px !important;}"]

Frequent Panel Tripping Does your circuit breaker trip frequently? This can be an indicator that you are using more appliances than your circuit can accommodate. An electrical panel trips off to prevent the wires from overheating. If you are facing the problem, have your breaker replaced.
Flickering Lights If your lights flicker when household appliances are in use, there could be a connection problem. If an appliance operates but seems to have a diminished output, there is a possibility that your circuits are overloaded. This is an indicator that your panel is outdated and is unable to handle the load.
Burning Smell or Discolored Outlets If your service box has a poor connection, a huge amount of power will be generated in a small area. When the heat rises, you can smell burning. Overheating can cause your outlet to become discolored. This is a serious issue and requires immediate attention.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text text_lead="yes"]Summit Technology Group is a leading electrical contractor in Sonoma CountyWe provide end to end turnkey electrical services. Whether you are planning to wire your new home or want to have your electrical panel maintained, our team has got your covered. To discuss your project with one of our experts, call 707-542-4773. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Trust Summit Technology Group with Your Electrical Rewiring

Trust Summit Technology Group with Your Electrical Rewiring

Our Team Delivers Top-Notch Electrical Services for Your Smart Home

If there’s one thing a smart home needs for its many solutions and technologies to perform properly, it’s consistent and reliable electricity. If your home’s wired systems aren’t up to par, then your smart home will certainly suffer from it. However, diving into your electrical wiring and cabling on your own can be quite daunting – we don’t recommend a DIY route and its potentially costly consequences.

Instead, work with a trusted electrical company like Summit Technology Group for your home’s electrical rewiring services and beyond! You can rest assured that our team will take care of every aspect of your project. Want to find out more about what our services entail? Keep reading on below.

Take Advantage of Solar Tax Credits Before the Year is Over

SUTEGR_October_Blog3_Solar-Tax-Credit-North-Bay-CA_PHOTO

Does Your Solar Panel System Make You Eligible for Savings?

A solar panel system on your home in the North Bay, CA, comes with many benefits including energy independence, reducing your carbon footprint, and saving money on your utilities. Your solar panels may be able to save you even more money if you’re eligible for a solar tax credit! Keep reading to learn more about available solar tax credits and to see if you’re eligible for a tax return credit next tax season.

Why Choose Commercial Electrical Contractors from Summit Technology Group in Santa Rosa, CA

[vc_row row_height_percent="0" override_padding="yes" h_padding="3" top_padding="3" bottom_padding="3" back_color="color-xsdn" overlay_alpha="50" gutter_size="3" column_width_percent="100" shift_y="0" z_index="0"][vc_column column_width_percent="100" gutter_size="3" style="light" overlay_alpha="50" shift_x="0" shift_y="0" shift_y_down="0" z_index="0" medium_width="0" mobile_width="0"][vc_column_text]If you need a commercial electrician in Santa Rosa for your business or organization, you cannot go wrong with Summit Technology Group. A professionally run company, Summit Technology Group boasts a team of highly skilled, experienced, and knowledgeable in-house professionals, who have the acumen to ensure that the work is done right the first time around.

In case you are looking for more reasons to choose commercial electrical contractors from Summit Technology Group in Santa Rosa, here are some of them.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Decades of Experience[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602271505826{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Summit Technology Group has more than 50 years of experience as a commercial electrical contractor. The company would not have been able to survive if it did not strive to ensure customer delight. In these five decades, the company has grown from strength to strength, and has proven itself as a reliable and efficient commercial electrical contractor.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Full-Fledged In-House Team[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602271478616{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]When you hire Summit Technology Group as your commercial electrician in Santa Rosa, you can rest assured knowing that it has an entire team of in-house professionals, right from project managers and programmers to technicians and engineers. You never have to worry about sub-contractors. Right from bidding and design to installation and service, everything is handled by its in-house professionals. This ensures superior quality and reliability.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Latest Procedures and Technologies[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1633947449636{margin-top: 8px !important;}" uncode_shortcode_id="689617"]Summit Technology Group takes pride in keeping abreast of the latest technologies and procedures in its field. As a result, it is able to offer clients top-of-the-line services, products, and installation services to help them comply with the local regulations, and get a bigger bang for their buck. Endpoint security software combines encryption and application control to protect devices connecting to the corporate network, allowing improved monitoring and blocking of hazardous activity.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Integrity and Transparency[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602271407780{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Integrity and transparency are the cornerstones of contracting. Summit Technology Group values both, and ensures it maintains integrity and transparency in all dealings with clients. This provides you with peace of mind, and allows you to accept the advice and recommendations that the dependable professionals from the company make.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Accountability[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602271377630{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]The company holds itself accountable for the work and services it offers. It has stringent in-house quality control measures in place, and this enables it to successfully complete projects. It uses the best-quality materials so that clients have no reason to worry while being certain that they will get value for money.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text text_lead="yes"]So, if your company requires a qualified, dedicated, and driven electrical contractor in Santa Rosa, you should not look beyond Summit Technology Group. The company will exceed your expectations with its high-quality work and a keen eye for detail. Call us today at 707-542-4773.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How Hiring a Professional Helps You Increase Wi-Fi Speed During Shelter in Place and Homeschooling

[vc_row row_height_percent="0" override_padding="yes" h_padding="3" top_padding="3" bottom_padding="3" back_color="color-xsdn" overlay_alpha="50" gutter_size="3" column_width_percent="100" shift_y="0" z_index="0"][vc_column column_width_percent="100" gutter_size="3" style="light" overlay_alpha="50" shift_x="0" shift_y="0" shift_y_down="0" z_index="0" medium_width="0" mobile_width="0"][vc_column_text]Thanks to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, work from home has become the new normal. An increasing number of people now rely on the Internet for education, work, and entertainment. Unfortunately, the internet and wireless networks are coming under immense pressure due to this surge in demand.

If you are living in Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and your slow internet speed frustrates you, talk to a networking technician in Santa Rosa from Summit Technology Group. A Wi-Fi expert knows various tricks to speed up Wi-Fi. Not only will the professional fix your Internet, but will also discuss ways to boost your Wi-Fi performance.

One of the most important things that impact Wi-Fi quality is the way the Wi-Fi connection was set up. If you are planning to get a Wi-Fi connection, look for an expert installer. An installation expert is well aware of installation mistakes and plans their every installation keeping in mind roadblocks that the project may hit.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Tips to Speed Up Your Wi-Fi[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602270057065{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Before you call an expert, try these tips to increase Wi-Fi speed and overall wireless quality:[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Move Your Router[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1634110720614{margin-top: 8px !important;}" uncode_shortcode_id="408948"]Oftentimes, Wi-Fi routers get stuck in the corners of homes, close to the wall where signals enter the home. This can be a problem as wireless networks use radio waves. They have limited range and are unable to penetrate walls.

If it's feasible, move your router to a more central location. This can be done by running a longer coax or ethernet cable. Keep your router away from refrigerators, microwave ovens, and other metal equipment. If you have a fish tank, move your router as far from it as possible, as Wi-Fi signals can struggle to pass through water. Looking for buy Radios Kenwood then you have right place.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Change Your Wi-Fi Channel[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602269982951{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]If you have several other Wi-Fi networks near you, try changing your channel as there is a chance you may be experiencing radio interference. Remember, not all routers are designed to sense interference and pick uncluttered frequencies. If your router is unable to find clearer frequencies, manually change the channel and see if it helps.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text_font="font-728346" text_size="h5" text_weight="600"]Use a Wi-Fi Extender[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1602269935942{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]If removing your router is not a feasible option, get a Wi-Fi extender and place it where the signal is weak. A Wi-Fi extender repeats the wireless signal from a router to enhance its coverage. The device captures a Wi-Fi signal from the router and rebroadcasts it to areas where the signal is weak.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text text_lead="yes"]Need help from a nearby electrician in Santa Rosa to improve your Wi-Fi speed? Look no further than Summit Technology Group, located in Santa Rosa. Whether you need a whole-home audio solution fully customized to your needs or a home lighting control system, we have you covered. We strive for excellence. Our uncompromising commitment to quality sets us apart. To learn more about us, call us at 707-542-4773.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Signs You Need Professional Electrical Work in Your Home or Business

[vc_row row_height_percent="0" override_padding="yes" h_padding="3" top_padding="3" bottom_padding="3" back_color="color-xsdn" overlay_alpha="50" gutter_size="3" column_width_percent="100" shift_y="0" z_index="0"][vc_column column_width_percent="100" gutter_size="3" style="light" overlay_alpha="50" shift_x="0" shift_y="0" shift_y_down="0" z_index="0" medium_width="0" mobile_width="0"][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1621940889872{margin-bottom: 24px !important;}"]Did you know that electrical repair problems are hands down one of the main causes of most commercial fires every year? Faulty wiring and other electrical issues can pose a threat to you and your business. It is needless to say that if a fire starts in your office, you stand to lose several thousands of dollars and the ability to make more money. It is therefore important for you to be vigilant and look out for signs that indicate you need professional electrical work in your business. So, with no further ado, let’s get started. Read on for a short guide from our expert electrical contractors in Sonoma County that will help you learn what to look out for.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h="0"][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1621939098637{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Lights Keep Flickering – If the lights in your building keep flickering, it simply means you have an electrical connection that has gone loose somewhere and needs immediate attention. If only one light flickers, you can fix it by swapping it out for a new one or tinkering with the connection. However, on the other hand, if multiple lights flicker or the entire building begins to flicker, you must call in a professional electrician right away.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h="0"][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1621938993861{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Outlets Are Either Charred or Hot – If the outlets in your building feel too hot to the touch, unplug everything connected to the outlet immediately. Refrain from using the outlet until you have had an electrician diagnose and fix the outlet for you. It may be a smart idea to cover it up with tape and to put a sign over it so others know to avoid it as well. Dimmer switches that feel warm are simply doing their job; however, if they feel too hot, something is wrong and needs to be looked at.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h="0"][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1621938993861{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Outlets Are Either Charred or Hot – If the outlets in your building feel too hot to the touch, unplug everything connected to the outlet immediately. Refrain from using the outlet until you have had an electrician diagnose and fix the outlet for you. It may be a smart idea to cover it up with tape and to put a sign over it so others know to avoid it as well. Dimmer switches that feel warm are simply doing their job; however, if they feel too hot, something is wrong and needs to be looked at.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1621939012563{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Problems with the Wiring – If your office building is over 30 years old, you must call in an electrician to update your wiring, especially if you smell something burning. Old wires are not designed to handle the load of electric power that office buildings use. First try to locate the source of the smell and turn off your electricity. If you cannot locate where the scent is coming from and are certain it is not from the office kitchen, call a professional electrician right away. Even though wires may be tucked away and hard to see, it is important to give them a once-over every month to ensure they are not frayed or in need of replacement.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h="0"][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1621939029356{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping – If your circuit breaker keeps tripping and you cannot pinpoint the reason, it is prudent to call in the professionals. A circuit breaker is designed to keep electrical circuits from overheating, and hence, if it constantly trips, it is likely you have an electrical problem that needs attention.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h="0"][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1621939051636{margin-top: 8px !important;}"]Other things to watch out for are sparks, loose outlets, and even rodents. If you notice rodents in your building, it is likely that they have been busy feasting on some wires. Waste no time, and call in the experts. Not sure whom to call for help? The Summit Technology Group is one of the best electrical contractors in Sonoma County that you can trust. Call us today at 707-542-4773.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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. 

The Importance of Licensed Marin County Electricians When Installing Solar Panels

Solar energy is the energy derived from the sunlight, and transformed into a mechanical form for domestic and commercial usage. It is the most reliable and cheapest source of power since the sunlight is readily available. Solar energy has been used for hundreds of years all over the world. It can be used for cooking, heating, and drying.


You see, you cannot convert solar energy into electricity directly. You need to install solar panels that are engineered for this purpose only. They are mechanically built, and are established by the professional electricians in Marin County, CA. These panels are made up of silicon elements whose primary function is to convert solar energy into electricity. Many house owners prefer to install solar panels on their own. On the contrary, they should get in touch with a professional and licensed electrician to get this job done. Why? Here are some logical points for you to consider!

General Safety – How many hours do you work on rooftops or balancing yourself on ladders? If you are not used to it, why take the risk of installing solar panels on your own? Climbing long ladders with heavy racks, panels, and other material can be dangerous. Moreover, you will also need to balance yourself with all that stuff on the rooftops and slopes too. You should realize that its consequences can be risky. Hiring a licensed and professional electrician will be a wise decision rather than jeopardizing your well-being.

Electrical Safety – Experimenting with electricity can be a dangerous thing. A single mistake can be destructive for you, your family, and property. If you are not a professional electrician, you should avoid indulging in the solar panel installation processes. Can you install the wiring system on your own? Can you attach the racks and PV panels on your own? Moreover, can you independently install power meter, PV inverter, and electrical panels alone? If not, it’s high time you connect with an experienced electrician.

Tools and Equipment – We all have some essential mechanical tools and equipment in our homes. But are you sure you have complete knowledge about the kinds of tools used in the rooftop solar panel installation process? You will need much more than a drill machine, a ladder, and a hammer. Hire a licensed installation technician who will have a complete set of tools and equipment required for this job.

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Enjoy Solar Tax Credits & Freedom from Rolling Blackouts

Isn’t It Time to Consider Solar Panel Installation at Your California Home?

Whether you live in an area that has experienced blackouts or not, you’ve certainly felt the effects of California’s power shortage. You never know when the power will go out or when you’ll see an increase in your electric bill. Instead of paying for the rising costs of electricity in your home or suffering from unexpected blackouts, why not work toward energy independence? In fact, California and the federal government want you to go solar!

In this blog, we’ll highlight three ways you can take advantage of a solar tax credit for your home in North Bay, CA. Then, when blackouts occur, or the electric company notifies you of another price hike, you’ll be immune to those problems. Keep reading below to find out more!

SEE ALSO: 4 Questions to Ask Before Installing Solar Panels  

The Federal Solar Tax Credit

Everybody wants to save money and make money. You can with solar power! Even though California no longer offers a rebate for solar panel installation, the federal government incentivizes homeowners to install solar systems by providing a solar tax credit. We’ll cover that shortly. But even if there wasn’t a credit, there are so many other positive reasons to go solar. Switching to solar helps you:

 
  • Save money on your electric bill or maybe eliminate it altogether
  • Do your part to reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels
  • Reduce the electrical power demand as well as blackouts in California
  • Enjoy access to power if the electricity goes out (when you have solar battery storage)
  • Increase the property value of your home and resale value
 The federal tax credit offers even more incentive to install a solar system on your home. The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) was established by the United States government to encourage homeowners to switch to solar. Right now, homeowners who install solar panel systems between 2020 and 2022 receive a 26% tax credit.

In other words, 26% of the cost of installation and materials can be applied to your federal income taxes, reducing your tax liability by potentially thousands of dollars. That’s one way you can save money, but there are two other compelling reasons.

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A Smart & Seamless Way to Illuminate Your Home

A Smart & Seamless Way to Illuminate Your Home

Remote Light Control Lights the Way to New Possibilities on Your Property

The concept of home “lighting control” was very different 30 years ago than it is today. Whereas dimmers with knobs were commonplace in homes, smart lighting control was not. In fact, the idea of controlling your lights via a smartphone app or tablet wasn’t even on the radar in the early 90s – that’s because phone apps and tablets didn’t even exist!

Now, adjusting your living room lights or any lighting system in your home is as easy as tapping a button. And with remote light control, you don’t need to get out of your seat to do it. In addition, you won’t even have to settle for the same lighting brightness or color. Set scenes for each room and every occasion. Keep reading to see how Lutron lighting, a smart lighting manufacturer, illuminates the possibilities for your home in Santa Rosa, CA.

How to Manage & Monitor Energy Usage in Your Home

Take Advantage of Smart Technology to Improve Home Energy Management

Most homeowners want to save energy. It not only helps the environment, but an energy-efficient home is a more comfortable space. In addition, saving energy equates to saving money! But doing it involves a lot more than turning off the lights when you leave a room or manually adjusting your thermostat. The most effective home energy management starts with smart technology.

Technologies such as lighting automation, motorized shades, and smart indoor climate control help you save bundles on your energy bill as well as reduce your carbon footprint. Would you like to learn how to enjoy an energy-conscious lifestyle in Healdsburg, CA? Keep reading below!

SEE MORE: Enjoy Solar Tax Credits & Freedom from Rolling Blackouts  

Waste Not, Want Not! 

It’s nothing new that Americans waste more than other countries in the world. But we are also a country that gives more to those who are less fortunate. Still, reducing waste should be a priority because it leaves us even more to give and save! Your home’s energy efficiency starts with cutting back on waste. Here are three ways to start: lighting, shades, and heat and AC.

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Yes, You Can Control Your Home with Your Voice!

Voice Control Automation Is Exemplified with Josh.ai and Lutron

A luxurious home experience begins with smart home automation. But it doesn’t end there! Even though it’s convenient and seamless to take command of your home’s technologies with the swipe of an icon, you may be surprised that there’s an even more seamless way to do it. For many years, Lutron has designed motorized shades and smart lighting that add a level of automation luxury for homeowners.

Recently, Lutron teamed up with Josh.ai – a voice control automation company – to take the in-home experience to the next level. Now, you can control every connected system in your home just by speaking to it! Keep reading to learn more about Josh.ai and how the company’s partnership with Lutron changes the way you interact with your home in Geyserville, CA.

SEE ALSO: Reasons to Hire a Pro for Your Smart Home Installation  

A Home That’s at Your Beck and Call

Don’t get us wrong – controlling your home via a smart home tablet or smartphone app is still “futuristic.” Most homeowners only dream of living in a home like that. And yet, even for smart homeowners, they aren’t truly experiencing the ultimate in automation. Josh.ai changes everything! Much like Google Assistant or Alexa, Josh obeys your verbal commands and communicates with you as you interact with your home.

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The Futuristic Features of Remote Access Security

Want to Have a More Secure Business? Here’s How!

How much traffic do you have in your business each day? Whether you manage a retail store, a restaurant, or an office building in Napa Valley, CA, it’s likely your doors open and close more times than you can count! If you’re concerned about security, it’s not easy to monitor everyone who enters your building – unless you have an access control system. You’ll always feel safe and secure with this smart security system.

Unlike older access control products, the newest ones are technologically advanced. There are many ways to implement the system, from PIN codes and keycards to convenient key fobs and futuristic biometric security. Best of all, remote access control lets you manage everything from your office, home, or miles away. Read our blog to learn more about several smart access control solutions.

SEE ALSO: Signs You Need Professional Electrical Work in Your Home or Business 

Who Needs a Key?

In a world of smart technology, using a key to unlock your doors has become nearly obsolete. Many luxury homes and businesses use a keyless entry system. That doesn’t mean you keep your doors unlocked. Instead, employees enter your doors using keycards (like a credit card) or key fobs (a small device that’s about the size of a coin). Then, when they approach the door, they simply wave the device at a scanner, and the door unlocks. No need for keys or security guards.

Key fobs and cards are also useful for interior spaces. For instance, if you have executive offices on the top floor, you can program the doors to unlock for authorized personnel. You can also use remote access security to restrict access to your office from a remote location – any time day or night. Simply click an icon on your computer or a mobile building automation device to lock down an area.

 

Type in Your PIN Code

Perhaps a PIN-code access control system is better for your business. After all, everybody forgets their keys, keycards, or key fobs at some point. When your business is protected with a PIN-code system, you’ll never worry about losing a “key.” Each employee is assigned a specific PIN code to unlock doors.

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Summit Technology Group Is Now a Lutron Diamond Dealer!

Summit Technology Group Is Now a Lutron Diamond Dealer!

Discover What a Trusted Lutron Dealer Can Do for Your Smart Home Experience

Sometimes, a title means everything. For example, if you worked hard to earn your medical degree, you want to be referred to as “Doctor.” Likewise, those who joined the armed forces are known for their titles, such as sergeant, colonel, and general. The same is true in the smart home technology industry. It’s important to earn titles and awards to set a company apart from competitors.

At Summit Technology Group, we are proud of our newest title: Lutron Diamond Dealer. It not only means a lot to us, but it also adds more value to the services we provide for our clients in the North Bay, CA. Keep reading to see what you can expect from an experienced and credentialed Lutron dealer.