Smart appliances used to seem like the stuff of science fiction, but these days, they’re finally becoming mainstream. While each smart appliance’s capabilities differ, they’re all designed to simplify common household tasks, often through advanced interactivity and autonomous features. But how can you tell which ones are the best investment for your home?

We’ve put together this quick guide to popular smart appliance options to help. Use this as a starting point to learn more about the latest innovations and determine which appliances and features would be most helpful for you.

Smart fridges

Today’s smart fridges often come with built-in voice assistants, tablet screens and built-in cameras that can let you view their contents from a smartphone — perfect for when you’re at the supermarket and need to check whether or not you already have eggs. Plus, additional features like built-in recipe apps, streaming services and expiration date trackers can help you run your kitchen more efficiently.

Smart ovens

If you find yourself dreaming about dinner while you’re on the way home, a smart oven might be just what you need. Built-in connectivity and remote control allow you to start pre-heating your oven even before you get home. Plus, with the power to switch it off from any location, you’ll never have to wonder if you accidentally left the oven running. Additional benefits, like high-speed cooking, recipe storage and ultra-precise temperature control can make these ovens the ultimate convenience for the frequent home chef.

Smart countertop ovens

Looking for a rapid, efficient cooking option that’s less costly than an entire oven? A smart countertop oven might be for you. For a fraction of the cost of a traditional oven, a smart countertop model can give you access to remote pre-heating capabilities and even use artificial intelligence to recognize foods and automatically select the right cooking program. Some models offer the flexibility to serve as a convection oven, air fryer, slow cooker, broiler and toaster.

Smart washing machines

A smart washing machine can boost your home’s energy and water efficiency, and connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network to offer you remote control. Beyond just choosing from multiple hot or cold settings and wash cycles, some smart washers even offer the option to download new cycles for specific loads or types of fabric. Built-in sensors can detect how dirty clothes are and determine the right amount of detergent and water to use in a cycle.

However, while the ease of starting a wash cycle remotely may sound like a great way to streamline your to-do list, remote features aren’t always as convenient as they might sound. After all, you’ll still need to be there in person to load up the washer and put clothing in the dryer afterward.

Smart dryers

Everyone knows that drying your clothing can be a delicate balance, but how can you make sure your clothing won’t come out damp, wrinkled, or shrunk down to half of its original size? A smart dryer can help. Built-in settings to detect moisture, prevent wrinkles, extend cycles and even steam outfits to help you cut down on time doing other chores. Many dryers even feature settings to help use energy more efficiently and save you money on utility bills.

Smart outlets

If you’re not in the market for new appliances, but still want the convenience of remote functionality, a smart appliance plug might be just what you need. Most smart outlets work the same way. You simply plug them into one of your home’s outlets, connect them to your Wi-Fi and then plug the device of your choice into the smart outlet, which will give you control from your smartphone through an accompanying app.

However, it’s important to note that you’ll need to make sure the device you’re plugging in is safely compatible with a smart outlet, and that you can leave it switched on at all times. Otherwise, the smart outlet won’t be able to control it!

Appliances are still getting smarter.

As with any new technology, the latest smart appliance innovations can have a noticeable impact on price, so it’s best to consider them a serious investment in saving time. But even if they’re too expensive for your current budget, that could change soon: Recent data from Juniper Research predicts that the cost of smart appliances will decline by 52% between 2018 and 2023.

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The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all of the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty or maintenance plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.