INSTALLATION
Guidance on the installation of your smart devices
DIY installation videos, questions to ask an installer, student mentor assistance, installer's directory, installer's specialist training
Do-It-Yourself Installation Videos
Most smart devices can be easily installed by a homeowner with the assistance of straightforward guidance. The following videos provide that guidance for a set of smart devices that can significantly increase your independence and self-reliance. These include: Indoor Air Quality Monitors, Light bulbs, Doorbells, Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors, Thermostats and Home Assistant Devices. We introduce this guidance with two short videos on the independent living benefits of smart devices and services and smart utility pricing programs.
Introduction to Smart Devices & Services
Smart Utility Pricing Programs
Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug
Ring Video Doorbell
Indoor Air Quality Monitor - Awair Glow C
Wyze Smart Bulb
Roost Battery
Google Home Mini
NEST Thermostat E - Installation Video
NEST Application Set-Up
Questions to Ask An Installer
In some cases it may be beneficial to hire a professional installer to place a smart device in your home, and especially for those devices that require direct wiring. Most home improvement and heating and ventilation contractors and electricians can install smart devices. We recommend interviewing at least three contractors to get your best price.
- What type(s) of smart devices do you install?
- What is your past experiences installing these devices?
- Can you provide me with recent references for your work?
- What will the installation cost me?
- What guarantees and/or warranties do you offer on the installation?
- What follow-up technical assistance do you provide?
- Will you teach me how to use the device(s)?
- Have you completed the I-STAR Certified Specialist Training Program?
Student Mentors Assistance Project
This Illinois pilot project matches older adults and people with disabilities with local students trained to assist with the installation of smart devices, and online enrollment in cost-saving utility smart pricing and energy efficiency programs.
Coming in 2021
The 12-month pilot project is a collaboration between the Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living, the Progress Center for Independent Living and the Illinois Assistive Technology Program. Direct and in-kind support for the Student Mentors Assistance Project is provided by the Illinois Science & Energy Innovation Foundation, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation and Google. Homeowner applications for this free assistance service will be available here in January of 2021!
Illinois Smart Device Installer Directory
A statewide directory of electricians, heating and air conditioning and home improvement contractors qualified to install smart devices in your home.
Coming in January 2021
The directory will include companies serving all 102 Illinois counties and will be searchable by zip-code and device type. Company entries in the Directory will include direct contact information, websites and any specialized services for older adults and people with disabilities.
Installer’s Specialist Training
Specialized training for smart device installers seeking to better serve the specific needs and preferences of older adults and people with disabilities.
Coming in 2021
Developed in collaboration with the University of Illinois, this asynchronous online training course will introduce installers to the specific needs and preferences of older adults and people with disabilities that are relevant to the installation of and programming for smart devices. Installers who successfully complete the training course and pass the final exam, receive a certificate and a highlighted listing in the Illinois Smart Device Installer Directory that will also be shared with other organizations and their websites providing services to these consumers.
NEWS & INSIGHTS
Click the button below to learn how smart devices and services are advancing our independence