Last night I was talking to a very tired friend who had just come from work. She was complaining about the general state of tiredness that overcomes her at times. Sometimes, she gets to the point where she can no longer move but has forgotten to turn off the lights before lying half asleep on the bed. Last ditch efforts to resolve this problem have included everything from throwing objects at the light switch, to phoning a roommate or parent to take care of the deed for her. I think we’ve all been through this level of exhaustion at one time or another.

Then there’s the issue of accidentally leaving the lights on when you leave a room, or having kids or roommates who do it. People get busy and forget. Sometimes we just have these habits. Either way, all of these things combined can really rack up the cost of your electric bill or, at least, be a nuisance.

Then I made a suggestion, “Wouldn’t it be great if you could just turn off your lights with your iPhone?” Actually, that was a really good idea, so I researched it and there are several systems that can turn your regular house into a remotely controlled smart house. That is, if you’re willing to make the investment.

The technology is called “home automation” and there are several ways to control your lights, and more, from your phone. The very simplest remote control for your Android smartphones, iPhone, iPad, and other iOS devices is the SmartLinc INSTEON Central Controller. The basic system costs from $100-$130 and allows you to turn whatever device is plugged into your system on and off, set timers, adjust your thermostat, and remotely operate surveillance cameras, if you have them. It operates with many INSTEON modules, which must be purchased and can cost $30-$50 for plug-in or $45-$60 for built in on/off and dimmable switches, and the costs can add up to become quite pricey.

Another easy-to-use central controller is the ISY994i, although it is more expensive than the SmartLinc system, ranging from $300-415. It controls all the same INSTEON modules as the SmartLinc but has much more programmable functions. One user said that he was able to purchase an INSTEON garage door controller ($72), motion sensors ($35 each), and remote control door locks ($138) and set up his system to lock the door after a certain series of motion sensors were passed and the garage door closed. Not only that, but he could lock or unlock his doors from the controls on an app for his cellphone. It may seem a bit pricey but these high tech functions don’t add up to much if it means less worries.

Whether you want to be able to remotely turn off your bedroom light, or monitor every aspect of your home from across the country via an iPhone app, there are so many possibilities for setting up your perfect remote control home, all you need to do is take a look at your needs and find a system that suits them.

==== Author Bio ====
Denton Exon has been writing articles for the past 6 years for different companies to increase consumer awareness. He currently works for MyCollegesandCareers, a successful company that helps prospective students to learn more about the best online colleges .