Tariffs are a word that conjures up uncertainty. One minute, the Court of International Trade ruled many of them illegal. Next, an appeals court ordered a stay while the case was challenged. 

At one time, China faced tariffs as high as 145%. Today, they’ve been temporarily reduced to 10%. With the additional “fentanyl” tariff of 20%, China’s overall rate is about 30%. 

Some Mexican and Canadian goods are subject to 25% tariffs. On May 30, the rates on aluminum and steel imports rose from 25% to 50%. 

So, what do all these topsy-turvy dynamics mean for smart home systems? Many smart home technology components are manufactured in countries outside the US. These components span almost all features including smart home control systems, AV equipment, networking supplies, security systems, and LED lighting. For some of these items, it translates to higher prices and supply chain challenges. 

As a home technology company serving Philadelphia, PA, and the Delaware Valley, it’s up to our team at Whitaker Technologies to stay ahead of the curve and provide our clients with the best possible prices, with projects completed on time and on budget. 

Here, we’ll explore how we bring great value despite potential price increases and some of the essential actions we take to limit the effects of tariffs when creating the smart home our clients dream of. 

The outdoor seasons are upon us. Are you ready to remember this one as one of the best? Enjoying backyard barbeques and pool parties is a great way to make the most of spring and summer, but an element is often missing. 

When evening comes, an outdoor lighting system can transform your outdoor areas into an oasis after dark. Instead of bringing the party indoors, push a button and create an enchanting retreat.

For the ultimate sports fan, not much beats watching a game in person. But watching the big game outside with friends, fresh air, and plenty of room to cheer is a close second. An outdoor viewing area is a great way to make patio entertainment for the ultimate fan experience. Continue reading for the steps to build the perfect game day setup in your Philadelphia, PA, backyard.

Have you been to one of the exceptional outdoor concert venues in Philadelphia, PA? Whether at the Dell Music Center or the Mann Center, there’s something awe-inspiring about hearing crystal-clear music in the open air. From state-of-the-art sound systems to views of the greater Philadelphia skyline, it’s hard to beat this level of entertainment. 

At Whitaker Technologies, our audio-video experts immerse themselves in the latest technology, keeping updated on advancements in sound and images. Even to them, hearing high-fidelity audio fill an amphitheater is nothing if not astounding. With no walls to contain the sound, why does it not drift away? What makes it all come together and leave us spellbound? 

And what if you could experience concert-quality outdoor audio like this at home? 

As more homeowners extended their living spaces and began their search for outdoor entertainment that rivaled their indoor systems, manufacturers paid attention. Today’s outdoor audio systems have reached the pinnacle of near perfection, bringing even coverage and precise, balanced frequency across the entire range. 

To bring this level of outdoor audio to our clients, we partner with Coastal Source, a leader in outdoor high-fidelity sound.  

Let’s explore the possibilities.