Are you frustrated with smart home devices that don’t talk to each other, or concerned about installing a home automation system that becomes obsolete in a few years?
Many Northeast Ohio homeowners invest thousands in smart technology only to discover their devices can’t integrate properly, require multiple apps to control, or lack the professional support needed when something goes wrong. A homeowner can spend nearly $4,000 on various smart devices from big-box stores, only to find that half stopped working together after a software update with no one to help troubleshoot.
A professional home automation service consultation eliminates these costly mistakes. Since 1974, Rhodes Security Systems has helped Cleveland-area homeowners design integrated smart home solutions that actually work together—from your first phone call through years of ongoing support.
In this guide, you’ll discover exactly what happens during a comprehensive home automation consultation, how the installation process protects your home and investment, and what kind of support you can expect long after your system goes live. We’ll walk you through each phase so you know what questions to ask, what to prepare, and how to ensure your home automation system delivers the convenience and security you’re expecting.
What Does a Smart Home Consultant Do?
A smart home consultant evaluates your home’s layout, understands your lifestyle needs, and designs an integrated automation system tailored to your specific goals. During a home automation service consultation, the consultant:
Assesses your current technology and identifies compatibility issues between devices you already own and new systems you’re considering.
Evaluates your home’s infrastructure including Wi-Fi coverage, network capacity, and electrical systems to ensure they can support your automation goals.
Identifies your priorities such as security, convenience, energy efficiency, or entertainment to create a system that matches how you actually live.
Recommends compatible devices and systems that work together seamlessly rather than requiring multiple apps and complicated workarounds.
Creates a custom installation plan with transparent pricing and realistic timelines so you know exactly what to expect.
Provides ongoing technical support to ensure your system continues working properly as technology evolves and your needs change.
A professional consultant saves you from costly mistakes by ensuring all components integrate correctly from the start. They bring years of experience working with different home layouts, particularly the unique challenges of various properties, from historic homes in Cleveland Heights to newer construction in Mentor.
The Initial Contact and Scheduling Phase
What Information You’ll Provide During Your First Call
When you reach out to schedule a home automation service consultation, you’ll have a brief conversation about your goals and current situation. This helps us prepare for your in-home assessment and make the most of your time.
You’ll discuss what you’re hoping to accomplish with home automation. Maybe you want better security while traveling, or you’re tired of adjusting the thermostat in every room. Perhaps you’ve got smart devices that aren’t working together the way you expected.
You’ll also mention any smart home devices you currently own—video doorbells, smart light bulbs, programmable thermostats, or security cameras. Knowing what you already have helps us understand what can be integrated and what might need replacing.
If you’re experiencing specific frustrations, this is the time to mention them. Can’t get your lights to sync with your security system? Smart lock keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi? These pain points help us focus on solutions during the consultation.
The initial conversation typically takes about 10-15 minutes with no pressure or sales pitch.
Scheduling Your In-Home Assessment
Home automation consultations are scheduled at times that work for you, including evenings and weekends for homeowners who work during regular business hours.
Plan for the consultation to take 60-90 minutes. This gives us enough time to walk through your home, understand your lifestyle, discuss options, and answer questions without feeling rushed.
All Rhodes Security Systems technicians are background-checked and certified. When we schedule your appointment, we’ll let you know who will be visiting your home.
Pre-Consultation Preparation and What to Expect
How to Prepare Your Home Before the Consultant Arrives
A little preparation before your home automation consultation helps you get more value from the visit:
Gather information about current smart devices you own. If you’ve got manuals or documentation for existing equipment, having it handy helps us determine compatibility with new systems.
Make a list of problem areas or frustrations. Write down what’s not working—dead zones where Wi-Fi doesn’t reach, lights that don’t respond consistently, or devices that require too many steps to control.
Think about your wish-list features. What would make daily life easier? Remote access while traveling? Automated lighting schedules? Voice control? Better integration with your security system?
Ensure access to key areas. If your electrical panel, attic, or basement might be relevant to the installation, make sure we can get to them.
What Our Consultants Bring to Your Home
Our technicians arrive with professional assessment tools to evaluate your home’s readiness for automation. This includes equipment to test Wi-Fi signal strength throughout your house, devices to check electrical capacity, and samples of common interfaces so you can see how different systems work.
All our consultants carry proper licensing and insurance documentation. We show up in Rhodes Security Systems uniforms, wear shoe covers, and keep work areas clean.
The Home Walkthrough Process
The consultation starts with a room-by-room walkthrough of your home. We’re looking at where you’d benefit most from automation, where current devices are located, and what infrastructure exists to support new technology.
We test Wi-Fi signal strength in different areas since weak signals cause most smart home frustrations. We also evaluate your electrical capacity and existing wiring. Some automation features require dedicated circuits or updated electrical work.
If you’ve already got security cameras, smart locks, or other devices installed, we look at how new automation can integrate with what you already own. Sometimes existing equipment works perfectly with an integrated system. Other times, replacing older devices makes more sense than forcing compatibility.
The walkthrough typically takes 45-60 minutes for a thorough assessment.
The Consultation Discussion and System Design
Understanding Your Lifestyle and Priorities
After completing the physical assessment, your consultant sits down with you to discuss findings and possibilities. This conversation focuses on how you actually live in your home and what would make the biggest difference in your daily routine.
We ask about your daily routines—when you leave for work, how often you travel, whether you forget to turn off lights or adjust thermostats. Your technology comfort level matters too. Some homeowners want voice control for everything while others prefer simple buttons and scheduled automations.
Security is often a priority for Greater-Cleveland homeowners, especially those who travel. We look at how home automation can integrate with your security system for remote access to cameras, automated lighting when you’re away, and smart locks you can control from anywhere.
Presenting Your Customized System Options
Based on our assessment, we present system options tailored to your home and budget. You’ll typically see different approaches—a comprehensive system that automates everything at once, or a phased approach that starts with your highest priorities and expands over time.
Each option shows you:
- What devices are included and how they work together
- What you can control through a single interface
- Lighting control, climate management, and security integration features
- How the system can scale as your needs change
Addressing Technical Concerns and Compatibility
Common questions we address during this discussion:
Network requirements: What internet speed you need, whether your current router can handle the load, and if Wi-Fi extenders would help
Power and internet outages: Most systems include battery backup for core functions and continue working locally even when internet drops
Device compatibility: Whether the system works with your Apple, Google, or Amazon ecosystem preferences
Professional installation prevents the common failures that plague DIY smart home attempts.
Transparent Pricing and Investment Discussion
You’ll receive an itemized proposal breaking down equipment costs, installation labor, and any ongoing monitoring fees. No hidden charges.
Smart thermostats can reduce energy costs by approximately 8% on average, with some homeowners seeing savings of 10-15% on heating and cooling bills specifically, according to EPA Energy Star certification data. [1] Some insurance companies offer discounts ranging from 2-20% for integrated security and automation systems, and modern automation features increase property value. [2]
You’ll have time to review the proposal at your own pace with no pressure to decide immediately.
Installation Planning and Scheduling
Creating Your Installation Timeline
Once you approve the system design and pricing, we plan the actual installation. Timeline depends on your system’s complexity—a basic setup might take a single day, while comprehensive whole-home automation could require two to three days.
We work around your schedule. Many homeowners prefer installation during weekdays when they’re at work, while others want to be present. Before installation day, we’ll confirm what needs to happen and remind you about any prep work.
Pre-Installation Communication
A few days before installation, you’ll receive a confirmation with the arrival window and the names of technicians who’ll be working in your home. If you have last-minute questions about equipment or the process, this is a good time to ask.
What Happens on Installation Day
Our technicians arrive within the scheduled window, introduce themselves, and walk through the installation plan with you before starting work.
Technicians wear shoe covers, protect your floors and furniture, and keep work areas organized. The installation process includes:
- Mounting devices and running any necessary wiring
- Configuring your network and programming the system
- Testing everything thoroughly before leaving
Before we leave, everything gets tested multiple times. Lights respond correctly, thermostats communicate with the system, locks engage properly, and your mobile app connects without issues. We don’t consider the job done until you can use every feature confidently.
System Training and Handoff
Comprehensive System Walkthrough
After installation is complete, we provide hands-on training with every feature of your new system. This isn’t a quick overview—it’s a thorough walkthrough that ensures you’re comfortable using everything.
We cover:
- Basic controls: arming/disarming, adjusting lighting, changing thermostat settings, locking/unlocking doors
- Mobile app setup and navigation
- How to check camera feeds and receive notifications
- Voice control setup (Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri) if applicable
You’ll try each feature yourself while we’re there to answer questions. The training is adapted to your comfort level—some homeowners want to dive into custom automation scenes right away, while others prefer mastering the basics first.
Documentation and Resources Provided
Before we leave, you receive:
- Quick-reference guides for common tasks
- Contact information for technical support
- Warranty information for all equipment
- Login credentials for your system
- Access to video tutorials and online resources
Practice Scenarios During Training
We walk through common daily situations so you know exactly what to do:
Morning routine: Create automation that gradually brings up lights and adjusts the thermostat before your alarm
Leaving for vacation: Set travel mode with automated lighting patterns, temperature adjustments, and enhanced security monitoring
Troubleshooting: Basic steps you can try yourself and when to call for professional support
Ongoing Support and Service After Installation
Post-Installation Follow-Up
Your relationship with Rhodes Security Systems doesn’t end when installation is complete. We follow up after your system goes live to check how everything’s working and address any questions that have come up.
This gives you time to use the system in real-world situations and discover what might need fine-tuning. Maybe you want a different lighting schedule or you’ve thought of an automation that would make your routine easier.
Technical Support Options
When you need help, you have several ways to reach us:
Phone support: Call our local number and speak with someone who knows your system
Remote diagnostics: Many issues can be resolved remotely without a service visit
In-home service: If something requires hands-on attention, we schedule a visit
We’re based in Mentor, which means faster response times than national companies routing calls through distant call centers.
System Updates and Upgrades
Technology evolves, and your home automation system can evolve with it. Software updates keep your system running smoothly and add new features as manufacturers release them.
Want to add new devices to your existing system? We help you integrate them properly so everything continues working together. Planning a renovation? We can extend your automation to new spaces.
Preventive Maintenance and Annual Check-Ups
Optional annual system reviews help identify potential issues before they become problems. We check that devices are communicating properly, update software, test backup systems, and discuss any new automation technology that might benefit you.
Ready to Experience Smart Home Living in Northeast Ohio?
A professional home automation service consultation takes the guesswork out of creating a smart home that actually works the way you need it to. Instead of buying random devices and hoping they’ll integrate, you get a custom system designed specifically for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Since 1974, Rhodes Security Systems has helped Cleveland-area homeowners navigate technology changes—from basic security systems to today’s sophisticated home automation. We understand the unique challenges of Northeast Ohio properties, whether you’re in a historic home in Cleveland Heights or newer construction in Mentor.
Here’s what happens next:
- Call (440) 946-6685 or schedule online for your free consultation
- Enjoy your in-home assessment with no obligation or pressure
- Review your customized proposal at your own pace
- Relax while we professionally install your system
Your consultation is completely free with no obligation to purchase. We’ll provide expert guidance whether you’re ready to move forward immediately or just exploring your options.
Contact Rhodes Security Systems today:
- Phone: (440) 946-6685
- Address: 7552 Saint Clair Avenue, Suite E, Mentor, OH 44060
- Service Area: Serving Cleveland and Northeast Ohio
We’re locally owned, licensed, and insured. When you work with Rhodes Security Systems, you’re working with a company that’s been part of this community for 50 years and will be here when you need us.
Common Questions About Your Home Automation Consult
What services does a home automation consultant provide during a consultation?
We evaluate your entire home to design an automation system that fits your specific lifestyle. During the consultation, we assess your current devices and identify any compatibility issues, evaluate your home’s Wi-Fi coverage and electrical capacity, and determine your priorities—whether that’s security, convenience, energy savings, or entertainment. We recommend devices that work together seamlessly through a single interface, create a custom installation plan with transparent pricing, and provide ongoing support as technology evolves. Our goal is to ensure all components integrate correctly from the start, saving you from the costly mistakes that often happen with DIY installations.
How does the professional home automation service process work from start to finish?
The process starts with an initial phone call where we discuss your goals and current frustrations—this takes about 10-15 minutes with no sales pressure. We then schedule an in-home assessment at a time convenient for you, including evenings and weekends. During the 60-90 minute consultation, we walk through your home room-by-room, test Wi-Fi signal strength, evaluate electrical capacity, and discuss what would make the biggest difference in your daily routine. You receive a customized proposal with itemized pricing and no hidden fees. Once approved, we schedule installation around your availability, professionally install and configure everything, test it thoroughly, and provide hands-on training so you’re comfortable with every feature. We follow up after installation and remain available for ongoing support whenever you need us.
Does investing in home automation provide good value?
Yes, home automation delivers value through multiple channels. Smart thermostats alone can reduce energy costs by approximately 8% on average, with some homeowners seeing 10-15% savings specifically on heating and cooling bills according to EPA Energy Star data. Many insurance companies offer discounts ranging from 2-20% for integrated security and automation systems. Beyond the financial savings, you gain convenience—no more wondering if you locked the door or turned off lights when you’re away. Modern automation features also increase property value. Most importantly, a professionally installed system avoids the frustration and wasted money that comes from incompatible devices that don’t work together.
Resources
- https://www.energystar.gov/products/smart_thermostats
- https://www.progressive.com/answers/will-security-system-lower-insurance/