Home AV Systems: Planning for Expansion

Expanding your smart home AV system is an exciting experience, and you have lots of things to look forward to. However, the process doesn’t come without some logistical planning. 

Even if you’re currently ready to install everything you want in your initial expansion, you might want to plan for gradual expansion down the road.

For example, you might not have the means to get a full expansion right now, but you’re more than ready to start the planning process. Or maybe you don’t need certain features at the moment, such as a home surveillance system, but you know you’ll want one later when your kids are older and home alone more often. 

Here, we’ll look at some factors you should consider when planning your home audiovisual (AV) expansion, whether you’re ready to start the installation now or in the future.

[Related: Seven Reasons to Install a Home Surveillance System]

Determine a Location

Before you can plan your smart home AV expansion, you must determine the location that you want to upgrade!

Do you want to expand your smart home AV system outside, like in the front or back yard? Perhaps you’ve decided outdoor entertainment is something you and your family might enjoy. Or maybe you want to create a cinema-like experience in your basement with a home theater. 

Even upgrading the mirrors in your home with a TV in mirror system is something you can incorporate into practically any room with a mirror. Hidden AV is just one addition that can make your smart home even smarter. 

You can explore plenty of AV features, but deciding a definite location for them is the first step in your home AV system expansion plan. 

[Related: TV in Your Mirror: What It Is and How It Works]

Plan Your Budget

Planning your budget is incredibly important when expanding your system, and your plan usually comes together after you brainstorm how you’d like to budget.

You probably have a general idea of what you can afford — or at least of what you’re willing to spend. But once you determine a location for your expansion and the smart gadgets you’d like to incorporate into your home, you can then check whether you have the funds to install them. 

Additionally, working with a contractor and architect early on in your AV project ensures you have an accurate budget ready. This reduces the chances of any surprise costs that you may be unable to afford. 

Involving an AV installer in the process also helps you plan your finances. They can work alongside you and your architects and contractors. Together, you can determine a logical order and price range for purchasing and installing the systems you want over a set time frame.

Get the Right Equipment 

Once you’ve determined a location and planned the budget for your custom home AV system expansion, you can figure out what equipment you need. 

However, this isn’t necessarily something you should do on your own. Your installer can help you find the right equipment, including items such as these:

• Wiring cables
• LCD monitors 
• Touch screen panels
• Speakers and other tools for high-performance audio
• Microphones
• Thermostats for climate control
• Home theater projectors 

Your installer knows what equipment you need based on the features you want, and they typically provide that equipment for you. It’s usually included in system packages that you agree to purchase before construction, building or installation.

Plus, you should make sure that whatever you install is compatible with later additions (if you choose not to fully expand right away). Working with a qualified installer and thoroughly explaining to them what you want for your home AV system help ensure everything works as it should.

[Related: Eight Ways Climate Control Improves Your Home]

Find a Trusted Installer

Finally, you need to do some research on trusted AV technicians and installers in your area. 

The smart gadgets and features you choose should make your daily life more comfortable and convenient. With that in mind, make sure you pick a reputable company to work in your home and on your property. As a result, expert technicians do the work correctly.

AV Smart Solutions is an AV company based in Washington State. We do top-notch work for all types of clients, from residential to hospitality, restaurant and large office environments. 

We work with you to determine the best features for your home. In addition, we help you plan your budget, provide all necessary equipment and guarantee your satisfaction. 

[Related: Zoom Conference Room Setup Guide]

Contact AV Smart Solutions to Expand Your Home AV System

If you’re ready to start planning your home AV system expansion, contact AV Smart Solutions today.

We’ll help you perfect your smart home AV system with high-quality technology for a well-integrated home that exceeds your expectations. 

Call (425) 655-5052 or complete our contact form, and one of our AV specialists will be in touch!

Featured image via Pixabay