The Blank Slate Studio
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  • Video Doorbells & Cameras
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  • Sound System + Speakers
  • Shelves & Furniture
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About us
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FAQ
The Blank Slate Studio
Home
Services We Offer
Customer Prep Checklists
Popular Brands, Compared
  • Video Doorbells & Cameras
  • Security Cameras
  • Smart Home Hubs
  • Smart Thermostats
  • Smart Lighting
  • TV Mounts
  • Sound System + Speakers
  • Shelves & Furniture
  • Garage Tech & Storage
  • Troubleshooting Support
About us
Contact
FAQ
More
  • Home
  • Services We Offer
  • Customer Prep Checklists
  • Popular Brands, Compared
    • Video Doorbells & Cameras
    • Security Cameras
    • Smart Home Hubs
    • Smart Thermostats
    • Smart Lighting
    • TV Mounts
    • Sound System + Speakers
    • Shelves & Furniture
    • Garage Tech & Storage
    • Troubleshooting Support
  • About us
  • Contact
  • FAQ
  • Home
  • Services We Offer
  • Customer Prep Checklists
  • Popular Brands, Compared
    • Video Doorbells & Cameras
    • Security Cameras
    • Smart Home Hubs
    • Smart Thermostats
    • Smart Lighting
    • TV Mounts
    • Sound System + Speakers
    • Shelves & Furniture
    • Garage Tech & Storage
    • Troubleshooting Support
  • About us
  • Contact
  • FAQ

FAQ - By Product

Welcome to The Blank Slate Studio’s FAQ page. Below you’ll find answers to common questions organized by service type, so you can quickly find what you’re looking for. We aim to give you peace of mind—and help you feel confident you’re hiring a professional who knows how to get the job done right.

Find out more

Pricing depends on job complexity. Ask for a quote.

Smart Thermostats

Keep your home comfortable and efficient. We install popular smart thermostats like Nest and ecobee that help you control temperature from your phone, save money on energy bills, and work with your smart home system.

Q: Will this work with my existing HVAC system?

A: Most systems are compatible, especially with Nest or ecobee. We’ll check during installation to ensure it fits your setup.

Q: Do I need a C-wire?

A: Some smart thermostats require a C-wire for constant power. If you don’t have one, we can recommend models that work without it or use an adapter.

Q: Can I control it from my phone?

A: Yes—all supported thermostats have mobile apps that let you control temperature, schedules, and more from anywhere.

Q: Will it save me money?

A: Yes—smart thermostats can lower heating and cooling costs by learning your schedule and adjusting automatically.

Q: Can I use voice commands?

A: Yes—Nest works with Google Assistant, ecobee works with Alexa, and some models support Apple HomeKit as well.


Smart Lighting

Automate and personalize your home’s lighting. Whether you want lights that dim with your voice or a full lighting schedule that adjusts with the sun, we install and configure smart lighting that matches your needs and style.

Q: Do I need a hub for smart lighting?

A: Some brands like Philips Hue use a hub for full features, but others like LIFX and Govee work over Wi-Fi with no extra equipment.

Q: Can I automate the lights to turn on and off at certain times?

A: Yes—most apps let you create schedules, motion triggers, and voice-controlled routines.

Q: What’s better—smart bulbs or smart switches?

A: Bulbs are easier to install and great for lamps or renters. Smart switches are better for controlling built-in fixtures with a wall switch.

Q: Will this work with Alexa or Google?

A: Yes—most smart lighting brands support Alexa, Google Assistant, or both. We’ll help connect it to your preferred system.

Q: Can I control my lights from my phone?

A: Absolutely. All major brands include free apps for iOS and Android to control brightness, color, and schedules.


TV Mounts

Clean, secure, and optimal TV mounting solutions. From simple wall mounts to over-the-fireplace installations, we make sure your screen is mounted safely and professionally—wires hidden, angles perfect, and walls protected.

Q: Can you hide all my wires?

A: We offer basic wire concealment using surface raceways or in-wall options when accessible. Let us know your wall type for the best approach.

Q: What height should I mount my TV?

A: It depends on your seating position and screen size, but we help you find the optimal height during installation.

Q: Do I need a special mount for my TV?

A: We can help choose the right mount based on your TV size, weight, and wall material. Full-motion, tilt, and fixed mounts are all options.

Q: Will this damage my wall?

A: Mounting into studs is secure and safe. We also use drywall anchors when studs aren’t available. All holes are minimal and can be patched if needed.

Q: Can you mount over a fireplace?

A: Yes, but we’ll inspect the material and heat exposure first to make sure it’s safe and effective.


Security Cameras

Protect your space with modern camera systems. We install and configure smart cameras that let you monitor your home or business from anywhere. From Ring to Reolink, wired or wireless, we ensure coverage and clarity.

Q: What’s better—wired or wireless cameras?

A: Wired cameras are more reliable for continuous power and 24/7 recording, while wireless cameras are easier to install and great for flexibility or rental homes.

Q: Do I need a hub or base station?

A: Some brands like Arlo and Blink may require a hub depending on the model. Others like Ring and Eufy typically connect directly to Wi-Fi.

Q: Can I mix different camera brands in my home or business?

A: Yes, but each brand uses its own app. We can help you decide whether to stay within one ecosystem or use different cameras for different areas.

Q: Will these work without internet?

A: Most cameras need internet to view footage remotely. Reolink and Eufy offer local storage options that can work offline, but live viewing and alerts usually need Wi-Fi.

Q: Can you help me set up the motion zones and test the view?

A: Yes—we’ll help position the camera, connect it to your app, and customize motion alerts or zones based on your needs.


Smart Home Hubs

The brain of your smart home system. We help you choose and install the right control hub—like Amazon Echo or Google Nest—to connect all your smart devices for seamless voice and app control.

Q: Do I need an Echo Show or Nest Hub to control my smart devices?

A: Not always, but having a hub makes voice control and automation easier. Devices like Ring, thermostats, and lights work more seamlessly with a dedicated hub.

Q: Can you supply the smart display, or do I need to buy it first?

A: We can supply select models like the Echo Show at a discounted rate. You’re also welcome to provide your own device—we’ll still handle the full setup.

Q: Can I use both Alexa and Google in the same home?

A: Yes, but they won’t control each other’s devices. Most homes benefit from picking one system to keep things simple.

Q: What does setup include?

A: We’ll connect the hub to Wi-Fi, link your smart devices, walk you through key features, and make sure voice control works with your setup.

Q: Will this work in a commercial space?

A: Yes—Echo and Nest hubs are a great fit for offices, studios, and small businesses looking for hands-free controls and automation.


Sound Systems & Speakers

High-quality sound where and how you want it. From single-room soundbars to multi-room speaker systems, we set up, mount, and connect smart audio solutions tailored to your space and lifestyle.

Q: Can these speakers work in multiple rooms?

A: Yes—Sonos and Echo allow multi-room syncing. We’ll help set it up and link speakers across zones.

Q: Will this work with my phone or voice assistant?

A: All major smart speakers work with iOS and Android. You can control them with Alexa, Google Assistant, or your phone’s app.

Q: Can you mount the speakers on the wall or ceiling?

A: Yes, we can mount soundbars and smart speakers using compatible brackets or shelves, depending on the space and wall type.

Q: Do I need internet for them to work?

A: Yes, a strong Wi-Fi signal is required for syncing, streaming, and voice control.

Q: Can you connect my TV or streaming device to the speaker system?

A: Absolutely. We’ll ensure your audio setup connects to your TV, Apple TV, Fire Stick, or any other system you use.


Shelves & Furniture

Safe, level, and secure installations of everyday essentials. We handle the mounting and assembly of furniture, floating shelves, desks, and more—ensuring they’re strong, straight, and styled exactly how you envisioned.

Q: What kind of walls can you mount shelves on?

A: We install on drywall, plaster, wood, and even masonry. We’ll bring the right anchors or fasteners for your wall type.

Q: Can you mount heavy items like bookshelves or cabinets?

A: Yes, we can mount heavy items securely, ensuring they are properly anchored to support the weight. Just let us know beforehand!

Q: Do I need to provide the mounting hardware?

A: We can provide the necessary mounting hardware, but if you have specific hardware you’d like to use, let us know.


Garage Tech & Storage

Maximize your garage with smart tools and storage. We install garage door openers, smart garage tech, and overhead or wall-mounted storage systems so your garage is both functional and organized.

Q: Can I open and close my garage from my phone?

A: Yes—MyQ-enabled garage door openers let you monitor and control your garage door remotely.

Q: Can you install overhead storage racks?

A: Yes, we can install overhead storage solutions to help maximize your garage space.

Q: Do you offer solutions for organizing tools and equipment?

A: Absolutely. We can install various storage systems, including wall-mounted racks and cabinets, to keep your tools and equipment organized.


Troubleshooting Support

Fixes, diagnostics, and configuration help. Whether your device won’t connect or your settings need adjusting, we offer expert support to get your smart systems and tech setups back up and running.

Q: What kind of problems can you fix during a visit?

A: We can troubleshoot Wi-Fi issues, reconnect smart devices, update firmware, reset apps, and fix most basic configuration problems.

Information provided above is for general guidance and may vary based on your home’s setup, product model, or service location. For personalized advice or a detailed quote, please contact us directly. The Blank Slate Studio is not liable for DIY outcomes based on the answers listed here.

Copyright © 2025 The Blank Slate Studio LLC - All Rights Reserved.

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