There is no single blueprint for having a smart, automated home that’s also environmentally friendly. But the good news is the two usually complement each another, especially when it comes to energy efficiency and temperature regulation.

Home automation is rapidly gaining in popularity. But before you can raise your home’s IQ, you need to install special structured wiring and a network that provides the basis for digital communication between computers, cameras and a host of devices used to control the home’s internal systems.

While a smart home’s gadgets are mostly in the interior, a home’s exterior features, for the most part, are responsible for reducing its carbon footprint, a task that has become easier due to the growing awareness of the impact of global warming. Everyone knows about compact fluorescent light bulbs and low-flow showerheads, but here are some additional steps you can take to make your home smarter and greener. These measures are good not only for the environment, but ultimately, also for your wallet.

Smart Home

Vehicle Sensor: Detects vehicles entering the driveway and automatically activates security system, lights and exterior intercom.

Home Lighting: Automatically turns on and off via interior and exterior sensors; sets mood lighting inside and out; works with security cameras and alarm system.

Weather Detection: Senses climate changes and initiates adjustments to interior temperature and humidity.

Irrigation: Works in conjunction with weather detection system to regulate watering of lawn and shrubs, which use 50 percent or more of urban water resources.

Security: Motion-detection sensor picks up presence and activates security cameras, lighting and intercom through wireless telephone handsets.

Whole House Audio/Video: The cornerstone of any smart home. Enjoy high-definition video and high-quality surround sound in every room of your house.

Interior Comfort Control: Be comfortable and energy efficient with smart controls monitoring and purifying your living environment.

Communications: Enabled telephones can control intercom and camera systems, as well as open doors and locks. They can also convert voice messages to e-mail and forward them to your hand-held or computer.

Wireless Network: Distributes Internet throughout the home; centralizes home remote control and forms backbone for security system.