For decades, home appliances have simplified daily life—refrigerators keeping food fresh, washing machines handling laundry. But today's smart devices from leaders like GE and Samsung go further, offering connectivity our ancestors could only dream of. With platforms like IFTTT (If This Then That), building an intelligent home is simpler and more powerful than ever.
Every smart device has its own app, but IFTTT connects them seamlessly, automating routines across your ecosystem.
IFTTT is a free service that lets users create 'applets' (formerly recipes)—simple 'If This Then That' chains triggered by services like Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest. Available via web and apps, it integrates with top smart home gear including Philips Hue, Logitech Harmony, and Amazon Echo, as featured in our in-depth guides.
IFTTT's appeal lies in its ease: craft applets directly on the site or app.
Open the IFTTT app, tap the applet icon (top right), and hit '+' next to 'My Applets.' Browse popular services or search. Select an applet and follow prompts—or build custom ones for tailored control.
Samsung's smart lineup—refrigerators, robot vacuums, washers/dryers, AC units—each has dedicated IFTTT channels.
For instance, get alerts for an open fridge door or water filter replacement. Start your washer upon leaving home or schedule cycles. Set your robot vacuum for daily kitchen runs.
GE's expanding range—ovens, dishwashers, water heaters—integrates similarly.
Remote oven shutoff, auto-off when away, dishwasher alerts for dirty filters or low pods. LG and Honeywell offer comparable IFTTT support.
Spotting Smart Devices: Look for Wi-Fi connectivity. Check retailer sites or manufacturer pages.
Upgrade without replacing everything using smart switches from WeMo, Wink, or SmartThings.
Belkin's WeMo line—switches, motion sensors, cameras—controls plugged devices via app, tracks energy, and elevates with IFTTT.
Wemo Insight WiFi-Enabled Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring Works with Alexa (Discontinued by Manufacturer - Newer Version Available) Buy Now On Amazon $37.00
Key applets: Auto-off after minutes; litter box reminders; heater temp adjustments.
Wink unifies lights, power, security with one app, compatible with GE, Nest, Philips, Schlage.
Wink Connected Home Hub Buy Now On Amazon $39.96
Applets: AC on hot days; rain updates for sprinklers; AC activation nearing home.
Samsung-owned SmartThings supports ZigBee, Z-Wave, IP devices via hub and app—sensors, locks, outlets, thermostats.
Samsung SmartThings Smart Home Hub Buy Now On Amazon $64.49
Applets: Log door opens in sheets; motion logs; exterior lights on rainy days.
IFTTT powers creative smart living. Consider these gems:
Parrot Flower Power: Wireless plant sensor tracks sunlight, temp, fertilizer, humidity.
Parrot Flower Power - Sensor de planta inteligente... Buy now on Amazon
Not sure where to start? Try Best Buy's IFTTT Channel—daily top product summaries, new smart home alerts, price drop notifications.
How have you built your smart home? Share in the comments!
