FAQs

How much will Econx cost?

There’s an Econx solution for almost every property. The total installed price will simply depend upon how many features you choose to connect.

Click here to visit our pricing page for examples.

Do I need special wiring?

Econx is an affordable home automation system. It is simple to install and simple to use.
 
Econx is a web-based home automation system developed especially for the New Zealand market.
 
Econx will make your home, office or bach smarter and more energy efficient.

What is Econx?

Econx smart home automation systems do not require any major changes to conventional wiring, nor does it require any additional electrical components.

When wiring a new home or office you may choose to run circuits slightly differently to maximise the benefits of Econx. e.g. heated towel rails on one dedicated circuit.

Do I need special wiring?

Econx smart home automation systems do not require any major changes to conventional wiring, nor does it require any additional electrical components.

When wiring a new home or office you may choose to run circuits slightly differently to maximise the benefits of Econx e.g. heated towel rails on one dedicated circuit.

What is the Hackability of Econx?

• The code base is extremely secure and has been built from ground up by experienced developers.
• The access for all users are via HTTPS security level internet access i.e. the same level of internet security as all bank credit card transaction sites.
• The Econx servers are housed in a high security facility with physical access to the servers restricted and logged.
• We use bank level security protocols (firewalls) as protection for all our systems which severely inhibits online ‘hacking’ access.

Security / Privacy / Safety

• Our customers privacy is of the utmost importance to us. We are a security conscious company and will never sell any of your information for marketing or database purposes.
• We go to great lengths to protect your information from internet baddies (see Hackability? above).
• When you take any action for access to your home there is a two-part authentication process. i.e. opening a garage door requires both an initial sign in and then an additional 4 digit passcode each time.
• Most importantly – burglars use bricks and crowbars.

Fail safes / Backups / Servicing

• Your device is linked directly to our servers. So, any power failures, critical failures, device issues (i.e. your device gets replaced) are always backed up via our systems. This means you can put in a brand-new device and all your schedules, logs etc will still be in place.
• Servicing as such is not a requirement, however, all software updates, notifications of alarm activations, connection to new appliances and fittings, app upgrades and more.

Where do I purchase Econx?

Econx products are distributed to authorised electrical wholesalers in New Zealand by Switch-It Innovations Ltd.

Econx home and office automation systems can be installed by any electrician. It is simple to install.

If your electrician is not familiar with Econx ask him/her to contact us.

What if the internet or power fails?

If the internet or power fails, Econx will continue to operate your home as per your previously set schedules.. You will however lose the ability to remotely control your home while the internet access is unavailable.

As soon as internet access is restored Econx will automatically receive any changes that were queued.

When installed as recommended, there will be a switch button installed in your home to change home/away mode.  If this is linked to your alarm this mode will continue to operate.

Do I pay for software updates?

Your annual $80.00+ GST fee includes all updates and extra features that get added to your Econx smart home system.

This includes software updates, notifications of alarm activations, connection to new appliances and fittings, app upgrades and more.

What is the yearly fee for?

This fee is for web services and provides the website and smart phone app upgrades.

This includes software updates, notifications of alarm activations, connection to new appliances and fittings, app upgrades and more.

Why is Econx​ more affordable than other systems?

Econx home automation systems are affordable. They do not use external hardware control. e.g. expensive lights switches and/or touch screens. Instead it relies on your existing laptop, computer, tablet or smart phone and utilises conventional wiring methods.

How does Econx​ reduce the power use?

Through Econx affordable home automation systems, you can reduce your power bill. 

Econx provides the ability to control your power usage with the ability to schedule and to isolate 'standby' power items when you’re not at home or in the office.

What if I turn Econx off?

If Econx smart home automation systems are wired and installed as recommended it can be turned off at any time and your home/ office will continue to operate if it was not there.

What if I sell my house?

If you sell your home, simply contact us and we can transfer Econx to the new owner.

The new owner would need to pay the $80.00+GST yearly fee and then, they to will have the benefits of an Econx smart home automation system.

What if I lose my phone, can someone enter my home?

If you lose your phone, tablet or computer, don't worry.

Your Econx smart home automation systems requires a separate password to open garage doors and disarm your alarm.

If you have any concerns, simply call us, and we can take additional steps to secure the Econx device from being tampered with and log out any logged in devices.

How many people can use my Econx at once?

As many people as you like can access your Econx home and building automation system.. Each user has their own free account and requests access to your Econx system.

You're in control. You can allow either full or limited access at any time, and you can remove their access at the click of a button.

Econx logs alarm arming and disarming and also the opening and closing of electronically controlled doors.

This makes Econx ideal for managed properties, offices etc.

How long is the warranty?

Econx offers a 2 years warranty.

What if I require more than 5 IR devices?

There are two options available:

Option 1 would be to consider an IR expander. Use 1 output to control multiple items. e.g. You may have 5 heat pumps in one office.  One output could operate all at once.

Option 2. Purchase additional Econx home automation units. All are accessable from the web site and phone apps with one single log in.

Can I Install ​Econx myself?

We recommend a qualified electrician installs your Econx smart home automation system.

Econx must be connected and tested by a registered electrician.

Will cameras work with my existing ​Econx?

Yes! Panasonic cameras will work with your existing Econx installation

Can I add cameras later?

Yes, you can add cameras later.

Do I need special wiring for Cameras to work?

Yes, you require wiring from your camera to your Network Video Recorder or Router.

Will Econx work with any brand of Camera?

No, Econx works with Panasonic cameras

Do I need a Network Video Recorder (NVR)?

No, Econx will provide limited storage.

However, we recommend the installation of a Network Video Recorder (NVR).

Can I install Cameras Myself?

Yes, however we recommend using an electrical contractor.

How many cameras can I connect to Econx​?

You can connect between 6 to 8 cameras to Econx.