What was once an unknown new gadget fresh to hit the market, is now a common household name. Alexa is for many a trusted companion and a necessary staple for their daily to do’s. Those who have been using her for years know how helpful she can be for everything from staying on top of the weather, to remembering what to buy when they go grocery shopping. However, she can often come with a learning curve. To help you , here are some of the best tips for getting the most out of your Alexa.

Set Up Automations

Alexa is extremely helpful for automating your home. With a simple voice command she can help you set up routines that automate everything from your television, to your lights.  The best part is that routines are entirely customizable and you can set them up how you please. You can alter them as you go, whether through the Alexa app or by voice. The idea is putting your home on autopilot without you having to do a thing. This can also help you identify when things are not working as they should be; for example, should you program your AC to turn on at a certain time, and you notice it hasn’t for a few days, this might be a sign that it’s time to call someone like snowsfuel.com out to see if there is an issue that needs fixing so that the usual routine can resume.

Set Up Reminders

Have you ever found yourself in the middle of folding laundry and forget that you’ve got a call scheduled? Alexa is here to help you remember things like that. Setting up reminders is a great way to stay on top of your most important tasks, and to-do’s.  The best part is that your reminders can be set up in different lists. It’s as simple as saying, “Alexa, remind me tomorrow to pay my electricity bill.” She’ll play a sound and tell you about what you need to get done at the time of your choice.

Use Bluetooth

Your Alexa device isn’t just for reminders and automations. Is also a fantastic speaker with high quality sound. Not only can it connect directly to music streaming apps like Spotify and Deezer, but you can also set it up as a Bluetooth device. If you have friends that come over who want to play music of their own, it’s as simple as telling Alexa to scan for Bluetooth connections. You can listen to everything from YouTube, to saved audio files in your phone or computer.

Set Up Timers

For those who love cooking, timers are especially appealing with Alexa. It’s as simple as telling Alexa to start a timer for a period of time of your choice, and you can even name each time or as you go. For example, a 10-minute timer can be called “eggs,” while the other can be called “pizza.” That way, you make sure that nothing is overcooked or gets forgotten in the kitchen.

Make Announcements

Perhaps you’re running late from work, or maybe even have a large home with multiple levels. You can use your Alexa as an intercom to make announcements to the rest of your family. From your smartphone, choose the option within the Alexa app to make an announcement. It will connect to the Alexa device of your choice and you can make an announcement to your family letting them know anything from the fact that you’re running late, or that dinner is on the table.