For those intrigued by home automation and innovative technologies, the idea of integrating smart appliances into your kitchen may have crossed your mind. However, the high costs of these gadgets can be a barrier, particularly if your existing appliances are functioning perfectly well, apart from their lack of smart capabilities. Fortunately, there are several budget-friendly enhancements you can implement yourself to elevate your traditional kitchen into a smart one.

Integrate a Tablet into Your Refrigerator

Purchasing a fully-equipped smart fridge can lead to expenses exceeding $15,000. Alternatively, a cost-effective solution involves attaching a basic Android tablet for about $60 to the front of your fridge. To mount the tablet, selecting a magnetic mount is a viable option for metallic fridges. Ensure you choose one that offers a robust warranty, such as the Mippko Magnetic Mount which is supported by a five-year guarantee. Though manufacturers generally don’t cover warranties for failures in third-party tablets, a strong warranty from the mount’s company can signal quality assurance.

Install Smart Sensors in Your Fridge and Freezer

While conventional refrigerators effectively manage temperature and humidity, smart sensors can provide valuable insights into their environments. These devices can help prolong the freshness of vegetables and ensure that your cold brew brews at the ideal temperature. A sensor kit, such as this one from YoLink, available for around $60, comes with two sensors and a hub, allowing you to monitor both temperature and humidity levels. They also alert you if there are any significant fluctuations, like a door left ajar, ensuring everything stays perfectly stored.

Enhance Your Oven’s Features

Top-of-the-line smart ranges can cost over $3,000, but there are ways to enhance your existing oven without replacing it. A Chef IQ smart meat thermometer is an excellent investment starting around $100, providing real-time updates on your cooking progress directly to your smartphone. This device not only tracks the current temperature but can also notify you when your meal is ready based on preset cooking temperatures according to your recipe. Consider adding a voice-controlled device like the Echo Dot that can verbally assist with recipes, conversions, and kitchen queries for added convenience.

Use Smart Plugs for Routine Devices

Instead of seeking new appliances like slow cookers or coffee machines that boast built-in programming, you can utilize smart plugs such as this four-pack from Govee to control existing devices from your phone. Smart plugs can also manage kitchen lighting either by scheduling or allowing you to remotely turn lights on as you head to the kitchen for a late-night snack. When paired with a smart home hub like this hub from Aeotec, smart plugs can also be voice-controlled, like this two-pack from GE, enabling you to manage your appliances even when your hands are busy or messy with dough.