As smart home technology becomes more affordable and easier to use, there are some really great options available to give your home a high-tech makeover.If the convenience of feeding your cat or turning on your air conditioning with a tap on your smartphone isn't enough of a reason to make the investment, consider this: In a recent survey by August Home and Xfinity Home, 63 percent of respondents said family safety was their main motivator for adopting smart home technology.Are you thinking of going from "home sweet home" to "home smart home"?

Here’s a deeper look at some of the benefits of smart home technology.Conveniently Protect Your Home and BelongingsFrom Wi-Fi-equipped smoke detectors to plugs with auto turn-offs, smart homes — with their always-on connectivity and notifications systems — allow consumers to quickly respond to the unexpected.

For instance, if you install a smart water leak and moisture monitoring device, you can set up alerts on your phone for unusual changes in moisture and stop leaks before they cause major flooding or mold.

It's a convenient way to proactively protect your home from costly damage, whether it's an overflowing laundry tub, a cracked washer hose, or a leaky water heater.Keep an Eye on Your Kids, Pets, and Aging ParentsVideo monitoring, motion detection, and smart locks on the door can help you keep tabs on your middle-schooler when he or she is home alone.

You can also check in with an older or sick loved one whom you're caring for, or even tell Fido to get down from the couch through a device's speaker.Trim Your Energy BillsIf making your home a bit "greener" is important to you, consider it one of the top benefits of smart home systems.

By using less power, you'll benefit by reducing your monthly energy costs.Answer the Door from AnywhereSmart doorbells and locks alert you on your smartphone when someone is at your door.