Ahead of CEDIA and IFA, research firm spotlights growth in pro-install services across security, control, and energy management markets

Ahead of IFA in Europe and CEDIA in the US, Parks Associates forecasts steady growth for the US smart home device market, which will reach $15 billion in sales revenue by 2029. The research firm finds strong demand for services related to the pro channel (professional installation) within its quarterly research surveys of 8,000 US internet households:

  • 29% of consumers ultimately turn to professionals for help, even if they initially attempt self-installation.
  • Pro install ensures device usability, especially in utility-driven programs like smart thermostats, where free or low-cost devices often go uninstalled without professional support.
  • Professional installation is rising year-over-year across categories, with smart lighting showing notable growth in pro installs.
  • 44% of smart home device owners have used professional installation for at least one device, while 81% attempt DIY for at least device, highlighting the hybrid nature of today’s market.
  • Professional installation correlates with higher Net Promoter Scores (NPS). For example, pro-installed smart cameras earn an NPS of 49 vs. 41 for self-installed units.
  • Younger consumers (18–24) are twice as likely to struggle with physical installation versus the general population (42% vs. 19%), suggesting pro install or “do-it-with-me” approaches are key to serving this demographic.
  • Commercial pro-install contracts yield recurring revenue opportunities through tiered maintenance, rapid response, and system refreshes. 
  • Device returns are often tied to installation challenges. Parks Associates finds that difficulties with physical installation and configuration are two of the top three reasons for product returns.

“Consumers are looking for more than just devices,” said Elizabeth Parks, President and CMO, Parks Associates. “They want connected solutions that are easy to implement and fit into their lifestyle. Professional integrators are uniquely positioned to deliver this value by making smart home and advanced home systems work together and offering ongoing service and support.”

This research builds on findings from recently published research studies and white papers:

Parks Associates’ research shows that as smart homes become more advanced, professional installers can establish their role as trusted advisors for homeowners. This role helps to bridge the gap between expanding device options and the consumer’s desire for simplicity, performance, and long-term satisfaction.

About Parks Associates

Parks Associates, a woman-founded and certified business, is an internationally recognized market research and consulting company specializing in emerging consumer technology products and services. Founded in 1986, Parks Associates provides business intelligence and research services through its proprietary methodologies developed over decades, including quarterly surveys of 10,000 internet households.

The company's expertise crosses many industries: home security and smart home, streaming video, broadband and pay-TV services, digital media and platforms, gaming, Wi-Fi and home networks, connected health, support, consumer electronics, home control systems, energy management, and tech solutions for the multi-dwelling (MDU), small-to-medium business (SMB), and commercial building markets.

Each year, Parks Associates brings thousands of leaders together for its webinars and annual events. The firm hosts the annual executive research and strategy conferences CONNECTIONS™, Connected Health Summit, Smart Energy Summit, Smart Spaces, and Future of Video. https://www.parksassociates.com

Follow Parks Associates on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.