Over the weekend I discovered that neither of our smoke detectors were working, so I went to Lowes yesterday to purchase a replacement. I have been wanting to integrate some sort of security/surveillance system to our home, and stumbled upon the Iris hub and associated products at Lowes. This system can integrate a wide variety of smart devices, such as smoke detectors, security devices (motion sensors, door/window contacts), surveillance cameras, lighting and electrical device controls, water line shutoff and leak detection devices, and irrigation controls.

The product reviews are not overly positive, so I was hesitant to purchase any of these products, but I decided to try out the Iris Hub and a "Halo+" smoke/fire/carbon monoxide detector, which also alerts you to weather emergencies such as tornado warnings. I set up everything last night, and after a little bit of difficulty in pairing the detector to the hub, got the devices set up. So far, I'm quite impressed. The hub is accessed through the Iris app (available for free through the Google Play store or iTunes) and allows quite a bit of customization. The Halo+ detector will send automatic notifications to my phone, as well as call me, in the event of an alarm condition. I have turned off my phone's WiFi connection and accessed the Iris hub via Verizon 4G cellular network, and I am able to command the built-in LED convenience light in the smoke detector with virtually zero lag. It's really quite amazing.

So far, so good. I'm anxious to integrate some door contacts, a security camera or two, and a security keypad. I'd also like to install one of the main water line shutoff valves with leak detection. Major water damage is something that is a constant worry in the back of my mind. These devices are certainly not inexpensive, but if I determine that they work reliably, I don't mind paying for them in exchange for some added peace of mind.

I'll provide an update after I test performance for a little while, but I'm interested to know if any of you have tried any of these products. If the technology proves to be reliable, the sky seems to be the limit.