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Smart Home & Security Blog
Tips, insights, and news about smart home tech from the Treasure Valley's trusted experts.
January 9, 2026Home Security Installer Near Me: 8 Best Local Pros (2026)
You need a home security system installed but you don't want to deal with sketchy installers or fly by night companies. You want someone local who knows what they're doing, shows up on time, and gets...
January 8, 2026Where to Install Security Cameras Around Your Treasure Valley Home
Security cameras only work when they’re placed correctly. Learn where to install cameras around your Treasure Valley home to maximize coverage, visibility, and reliability.
January 8, 2026Jobsite Security in Treasure Valley, Idaho: How to Protect Construction Sites from Theft & Vandalism
Construction sites are prime targets for theft and vandalism. Learn how modern jobsite security systems help Treasure Valley builders protect materials, equipment, and timelines with confidence.
January 8, 2026Best Rooms for Motorized Shades in Treasure Valley Homes
Motorized shades aren’t just for showpiece rooms. Learn which rooms in Treasure Valley homes benefit most from smart window coverings and how automation improves comfort, privacy, and energy efficiency.
January 7, 2026Smart Lighting Cost in Treasure Valley: What Homeowners Should Expect
Smart lighting adds comfort and convenience—but what does it actually cost in the Treasure Valley? This guide explains pricing factors, typical ranges, and how homeowners can plan wisely.
January 7, 2026Motorized Shades Cost in Boise: What Homeowners Should Expect
Motorized shades are a smart upgrade, but how much do they actually cost in Boise? This guide explains typical price ranges, what affects cost, and how homeowners can plan with confidence.
January 7, 2026Kwikset Smart Lock Manual: Setup, Reset & Troubleshooting
You just bought a Kwikset smart lock or maybe you installed one months ago and lost the manual. Now you need to program a new user code, reset the lock, or fix an issue that has you stuck. The printed...
January 6, 2026Wired vs Wireless Smart Lighting: What Treasure Valley Homeowners Should Know
Choosing between wired and wireless smart lighting can impact reliability, performance, and long-term satisfaction. Learn how Treasure Valley homeowners decide which lighting system fits their home best.
January 6, 2026Wired vs Battery Motorized Shades: What Boise Homeowners Should Know
Choosing between wired and battery motorized shades can be confusing. This guide breaks down the pros, cons, costs, and best use cases for Boise homeowners planning smart window coverings.
January 6, 202611 Best Home Security System Installation Services (2026)
You want your home protected, but installing a security system yourself sounds complicated. Between running wires, mounting cameras at the right angles, and programming sensors to work together, you r...
January 5, 2026Smart Lighting Scenes Explained: Everyday Automation That Just Works
Smart lighting scenes automate multiple lights at once, creating consistent comfort without constant adjustments. Learn how lighting scenes work and why Treasure Valley homeowners rely on them every day.
January 5, 2026Are Motorized Shades Worth It in Idaho Winters?
Idaho winters bring cold nights and rising heating costs. Learn how motorized shades help homeowners retain heat, improve insulation, and stay comfortable during long winter months across the Treasure Valley.
January 5, 2026Construction Site Security Cameras: How to Choose & Install
Jobsite theft bleeds construction companies dry. Equipment vanishes overnight. Materials walk off before you notice. And by the time you realize copper wire or power tools are gone, the trail has gone...
January 4, 2026Best Rooms for Smart Lighting in Treasure Valley Homes
Smart lighting isn’t just for one room. Learn which rooms in Treasure Valley homes benefit most from lighting control and how automation improves comfort, safety, and daily living.
January 4, 2026How Motorized Shades Help Lower Cooling Costs During Boise Summers
Boise summers bring intense sun and rising cooling costs. Learn how motorized shades help homeowners reduce heat gain, ease air-conditioning demand, and stay comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
January 4, 2026Ring Smart Lighting: 8 Best Picks, Prices & Setup Guide
You want outdoor lights that turn on when motion is detected, link to your Ring cameras, and give you full control from your phone. But Ring offers dozens of smart lighting products at different price...
January 3, 2026Smart Blinds vs Traditional Window Coverings: What Boise Homeowners Should Know
Smart blinds and traditional window coverings both control light and privacy, but the differences go far beyond appearance. This guide helps Boise homeowners understand how smart blinds compare to manual options when it comes to comfort, energy efficiency, convenience, and long-term value.
January 3, 2026How Smart Lighting Helps Reduce Energy Costs in Treasure Valley Homes
Energy efficiency isn’t just about appliances. Learn how smart lighting systems help Treasure Valley homeowners reduce wasted energy, lower utility costs, and improve everyday comfort automatically.
January 3, 2026Wireless Surround Sound Systems For TV: 15 Top Picks (2026)
Your TV delivers stunning 4K visuals but the built-in speakers sound thin and lifeless. Movies lose their punch. Dialogue gets buried under background noise. You crank the volume and still miss half t...
January 3, 2026Smart Lighting vs Smart Bulbs: What’s the Difference for Treasure Valley Homes?
Smart bulbs are popular, but they’re not the same as smart lighting systems. This guide explains the real differences and helps Treasure Valley homeowners choose the right lighting solution for their home.
January 2, 2026Motorized Shades in Boise: Smart Blinds for Energy Savings & Comfort
Motorized shades are becoming a smart upgrade for Boise homeowners looking to improve comfort, reduce energy costs, and control natural light with ease. Learn how automated blinds help keep homes cooler in summer, warmer in winter, and seamlessly integrate with modern smart home systems across the Treasure Valley.
January 2, 2026How to Ensure Outlets Are Installed Correctly Over a Fireplace
Installing a TV over a fireplace? Proper outlet placement is critical. Learn how offset outlets, clear center bays, and correct height prevent costly mistakes.
January 2, 2026TV Mounting Service Near Me: 8 Best Options & Prices (2026)
You need your TV mounted on the wall. Maybe you just unboxed a new 65 inch screen, or you're finally ready to free up that entertainment center and create a cleaner look in your living room. Either wa...
January 1, 2026Smart Lighting in Treasure Valley, Idaho: How Lighting Control Improves Comfort, Safety, and Efficiency
Smart lighting goes far beyond smart bulbs. Learn how professionally designed lighting control systems improve comfort, safety, and energy efficiency for Treasure Valley homes in Idaho.
January 1, 2026Top 5 Smart Tech Upgrades for Boise Airbnb Properties
Discover the top 5 smart tech upgrades for Airbnb hosts in Boise. Enhance security, guest experience, and convenience with these smart home solutions.
January 1, 2026Cloud Based Access Control Systems: 7 Top Picks (2025)
You need a smarter way to manage who gets into your building. Keys get lost. Cards get shared. Employees leave but still have access. Traditional systems lock you into expensive hardware and force you...
December 31, 2025Apartment Security Camera Systems: 15 Best for Renters 2025
Protecting your apartment gets tricky when you can't mount hardware permanently or run cables through walls. Most security cameras assume you own the property. Landlords restrict what you can install....
December 30, 202515 Best Smart Locks for Homes in 2025: Top Picks & Prices
You want a smart lock that actually works when you walk up to your door. You want one that keeps your home secure without making you fumble through an app every time you need to get inside. But every...
December 29, 2025Matter 101: The New Smart Home Standard for Homeowners & Builders
Matter is a new global smart home standard designed to make connected homes simpler, more compatible, and future-proof. It unites big brands (Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung, and others) under one protocol so that smart devices from different manufacturers all work together seamlessly. For homeowners, Matter means you can mix and match devices (lights, locks, thermostats, sensors, etc.) without worrying about platform compatibility. For builders and remodelers, Matter-ready infrastructure ensures homes are future-ready, offering cross-brand compatibility, local control (no cloud needed for basic functions), and easier device setup. In this post, we’ll explain what Matter is, what problems it solves, who supports it (with the latest updates from major brands), what’s new in Matter 1.5, and why it matters for anyone planning a smart home. We’ll also share practical tips for builders on pre-wiring homes and for homeowners on choosing Matter-certified devices or working with a technology integrator.
December 29, 2025Ring Video Doorbell Support: Phone Number, Live Chat, Email
Your Ring doorbell stopped working at the worst possible time. Maybe you missed an important delivery. Or the motion alerts won't stop going off. You need help fast and you're not sure where to start....
December 28, 2025Access Control Installation Near Me: 8 Top Installers 2025
You need an access control system installed, but finding a reliable local installer feels overwhelming. Do you go with a national brand or a local specialist? What about pricing, timelines, and contra...
December 27, 2025How High to Mount a TV on a Wall: Floor-to-Center, Distance
You spent serious money on that new TV. Now it sits in the box while you stare at the empty wall and ask yourself one question. How high should it actually go? Mount it too high and you'll crane your...
December 26, 2025What Does Surveillance Camera Installation Cost In 2025?
Surveillance camera installation cost is the total amount you pay to set up a security camera system. This includes the cameras themselves, recording equipment, labor charges, and any extras like cabl...
December 25, 2025Sonos Surround Sound Setup: Step-by-Step Home Theater Guide
You bought a Sonos soundbar and maybe even a Sub, but now you're staring at the boxes wondering how to turn these pieces into actual surround sound. The Sonos app promises simplicity, yet the options...
December 24, 2025How to Future-Proof Your Home with Low-Voltage Wiring
Low-voltage wiring is the foundation of every smart home. Learn how proper planning future-proofs your home, improves performance, and saves money long-term.
December 24, 202515 Best Wireless Home Security Systems With Cameras (2025)
You want to protect your home without drilling holes everywhere or running cables through walls. Wireless security systems with cameras give you complete protection without the hassle of hardwired ins...
December 23, 2025What Is Low-Voltage Wiring and Why It Matters for Smart Homes
Low-voltage wiring is the backbone of a reliable smart home. It supports automation, security, audio, networking, and future technology—without relying solely on Wi‑Fi.
December 23, 2025Professional Home Theater Installation: Why the Experience Matters More Than the Equipment
A great home theater isn’t just about the TV—it’s about how everything works together. Learn what professional installation should really look like.
December 22, 2025Smart Home Automation vs DIY Smart Devices: What’s the Real Difference?
DIY smart devices are easy to buy and install, but professional smart home automation delivers reliability, simplicity, and long-term value. Here’s how to choose the right path for your home.
December 22, 2025How Partnering with a Technology Integrator Saves Builders Time and Money
Partnering with a technology integrator helps builders reduce callbacks, avoid rework, and deliver better homes—while saving time and money.
December 22, 2025Pre-Wire vs. Retrofit: What Builders Need to Know
Pre-wire is now the standard for modern construction. Learn why retrofit falls short—and why builders need a technology partner from day one.
December 22, 2025Smart Home Upgrades That Increase Comfort Without Feeling Complicated
The best smart home upgrades don’t feel high-tech—they feel natural. Discover simple, reliable ways to increase comfort without adding complexity.
December 21, 2025How Smart Home Systems Actually Work (Without the Tech Jargon)
Smart home systems work by connecting devices, control systems, and automation rules into one unified setup that quietly runs in the background—making your home easier, safer, and more efficient to live in.
December 21, 2025What Homebuyers Expect from Technology in New Construction
Today’s homebuyers expect new construction homes to be technology-ready. Learn what buyers look for—and how smart infrastructure meets those expectations.
December 21, 2025What Is a Smart Home? A Simple Explanation for Homeowners
A smart home uses connected technology to automate lighting, security, comfort, and entertainment—making daily life easier, safer, and more efficient without adding complexity.
December 21, 2025Modern Conference & Training Room AV Solutions That Work as Hard as You Do
If your conference or training room struggles with outdated tech, poor audio, or inconsistent video calls, you’re not alone — and there’s a better way. Treasure Valley Solutions designs and installs custom AV systems that include large displays, crystal-clear sound, and seamless integration with Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet. From single-camera huddle rooms to full-scale training centers, we make sure your space works beautifully, every time. Discover how a smart AV setup can improve productivity, impress clients, and make every meeting run smoother.
December 20, 2025Why Builders Should Include Smart Home Infrastructure by Default
Smart home infrastructure isn’t a luxury—it’s a builder advantage. Learn why future-ready wiring and planning should be standard in every new home.
November 15, 2025Restaurant AV & Sound Systems: Getting the Right Atmosphere for Your Venue
Learn how professional AV and sound systems can elevate your restaurant's atmosphere, enhance guest experience, and boost your business.
August 22, 2025How Smart Home Packages Help Idaho Builders Sell More Homes
Discover how smart home packages give Idaho builders a competitive edge by helping homes sell faster and at higher prices with modern technology features.
August 21, 2025Smart Lighting for Idaho: From Energy Efficiency to Security
Learn how smart lighting systems save energy, enhance comfort, and add security for Idaho homeowners and businesses with professional installation.
August 20, 2025Smarter Security: Why Idaho Homeowners & Businesses Are Turning to AI Cameras
Discover how AI-powered security cameras are revolutionizing home and business security in Idaho with intelligent detection and proactive monitoring.
June 15, 2025SmartBuild Fiber System Explained
Learn about the SmartBuild Fiber System, a plug-and-play fiber infrastructure for future-proofing residential and commercial construction projects.
October 20, 2024Transform Home Audio with Sonos Arc Ultra and Sub 4
Discover the Sonos Arc Ultra and Sub 4 featuring Sound Motion technology, Dolby Atmos, and powerful bass for the ultimate home theater experience.
October 14, 20245 Ways Whole Home Audio Can Transform Your Daily Routine
Discover how whole home audio systems can create immersive soundscapes, elevate your morning routine, boost productivity, and create memorable entertainment experiences throughout your living space.
October 7, 2024The Benefits of Structured Wiring in Enhancing Your Home's Connectivity
Learn how structured wiring can maximize connectivity, create a smart home ecosystem, distribute data efficiently, and enhance security measures throughout your home.
September 30, 2024Why Upgrading to a Sony TV Can Enhance Your Home Theater Experience
Explore how Sony's cutting-edge TV technology with 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and Acoustic Surface Audio can transform your home theater into an immersive entertainment experience.
September 23, 2024Top 3 Sonos Speaker Setups for Ultimate Sound Quality in Your Home
Discover the best Sonos speaker configurations including the Arc soundbar, Sub, and Era 300 speakers for creating an immersive home audio experience.
September 16, 2024How Structured Wiring Powers Up Your Smart Home Experience
Learn how structured wiring forms the foundation of smart homes, enhancing connectivity, optimizing performance, and future-proofing your living space for modern technology.
September 9, 2024Business Security Systems: Navigating the Options for Your Company's Needs
Learn how to assess your company's unique security requirements and choose the right security solutions for optimal protection of your business assets and employees.
September 2, 2024The Importance of High-Quality Network Wiring in Today's Home Theaters
Discover why investing in quality network wiring is essential for seamless streaming, gaming, and connectivity in your modern home theater setup.
August 26, 2024The Complete Guide to Designing Your Dream Media Room
Learn everything you need to know about designing the perfect media room, from layout planning and equipment selection to lighting and acoustics considerations.
August 19, 2024How to Choose the Right Smart Blinds for Your Home or Office
A comprehensive guide to selecting smart blinds including considerations for compatibility, automation features, energy efficiency, and integration with smart home systems.
August 12, 2024Integrating Whole Home Audio into Your Smart Home Solution: A Boise Perspective
Discover how to integrate whole home audio into your Boise smart home, including system types, features, and setup considerations for seamless audio throughout your living space.
August 5, 20245 Reasons Whole Home Audio is a Must-Have
Explore the top benefits of whole home audio systems, from enhancing entertainment experiences to adding value to your property and creating the ultimate home automation setup.
July 29, 20245 Reasons Why Proper Network Cabling is Essential for Your Smart Home
Discover the five key reasons why proper network cabling is crucial for your smart home, from reliable connectivity and faster speeds to security and future-proofing.
July 22, 2024The Top Benefits of Installing Smart Blinds in Your Home
Discover the many advantages of smart blinds including enhanced security, energy efficiency, customized lighting, convenience, and improved home aesthetics.
July 15, 2024Future-Proof Your Company: Why Upgrading to a Modern Business Security System is Essential
Learn why upgrading to a modern business security system is crucial for protecting your company from threats and ensuring comprehensive security for your assets and employees.
July 8, 2024The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Integrated Security Systems for Residential Use
A comprehensive guide to understanding and selecting integrated security systems for your home, including types, features, and installation considerations.
July 1, 2024Integrating Smart Technology into Your Custom Home Theater for the Ultimate Experience
Learn how to integrate smart technology into your custom home theater for enhanced convenience, immersive audio-visual experiences, and seamless control.
May 15, 2024Power at Your Fingertips: The Magic of Motorized Window Coverings
Explore the convenience and benefits of motorized window coverings, including power source options, smart home integration, and the different control methods available.
May 25, 2023Embracing the Future: Smart Homes and Why They Make Sense Today
Explore what smart homes are, how to use them, their advantages and disadvantages, and which devices can be integrated to create the ultimate connected living experience.
April 10, 2023Sonos Speakers and Soundbars: Complete Guide
A comprehensive guide to Sonos speakers and soundbars including the One, Five, Move, Roam, Era 300, Ray, Beam, and Arc for the ultimate home audio experience.
March 30, 2023How a Smart Water Sensor Can Save You Thousands of Dollars
Learn how smart water sensors detect leaks early, prevent costly water damage, reduce insurance premiums, and provide peace of mind for homeowners.
March 28, 2023Samsung The Wall: A Revolution in Home Entertainment
Explore Samsung The Wall with MicroLED technology, incredible 8K resolution, customizable sizes up to 292 inches, and seamless home integration.
March 25, 2023Samsung QLED TVs: The Future of Home Entertainment
Discover why Samsung QLED TVs offer stunning visual displays, advanced features, cutting-edge technology, and beautiful design for the ultimate home entertainment experience.
March 20, 2023The Future of Home Automation: Trends to Watch Out For
Explore the exciting future of home automation including AI, voice control, smart home hubs, energy efficiency, smart health, security, and virtual reality.
March 15, 2023Why You Should Pre-Wire Your Home with CAT6 & COAX
Learn why prewiring your home with CAT6 and coax cables is essential for future-proofing your technology, increasing home value, convenience, and security.
About Our Smart Home Blog
Our blog is your go-to resource for everything smart home, home automation, and audio-video installation in the Treasure Valley. Whether you're a homeowner in Boise looking to upgrade your security system, a builder in Meridian planning pre-wire infrastructure for new construction, or a business owner in Nampa exploring conference room technology, our articles provide practical guidance based on real-world experience installing systems throughout Idaho.
We write about the products we actually install and support—from Sonos whole-home audio and Sony TVs to Ring security cameras and Lutron lighting control systems. Every article draws from hands-on installation experience in Idaho homes and businesses, so you get advice that works in the real world, not just marketing copy from manufacturers.
Topics We Cover
Our articles span the full range of smart home and commercial technology topics. We cover home theater and media room design including projectors, surround sound systems, acoustic treatments, and the latest display technology for creating the ultimate viewing experience. Security is a major focus, with guides on AI-powered cameras, video doorbells, smart locks, and integrated alarm systems for both residential and commercial properties. Audio enthusiasts will find detailed coverage of whole-home audio systems, Sonos speaker setups, in-ceiling and outdoor speakers, and multi-zone configurations.
We also write extensively about smart lighting control using systems like Lutron and Brilliant, motorized window shades for energy efficiency and convenience, and network infrastructure including Cat6 pre-wire, fiber optic cabling, and WiFi optimization for whole-home connectivity. TV mounting and installation guides help homeowners understand professional mounting techniques, cable concealment options, and how to choose the right display for every room. Whether you are planning a new construction project or upgrading an existing space, our blog provides the information you need to make informed decisions about your smart technology investment.
Product Reviews
Honest reviews based on products we've installed in real Idaho homes. We share what works, what doesn't, and which products offer the best value for Treasure Valley homeowners.
Installation Guides
Learn what goes into a professional installation, from initial planning and product selection through final setup and programming. Understand the process before you start your project.
Industry Trends
Stay ahead of the curve with insights on emerging smart home technology, new product releases, and industry developments that will shape how we live and work.