Eaton Corporation introduces Home Heartbeat at the CES 2006, a home awareness system that enables consumers to monitor and receive updates on a broad range of household devices and systems. Eaton has apparently already announced the system in 2005, but had to delay its market introduction.

The wireless, plug-and-use system enables consumers to add simple remote monitoring to ordinary household systems and devices. The system routinely monitors for problems such as water leaks and flooding. It also provides updates on home appliances, the status of doors and windows, routine maintenance schedules, and oversees comings and goings of family members.

The system sends emails or text message alerts to cell phones when a problem is detected. Because the system is wireless, it is also easy to upgrade by adding new sensors and components.
It has three main components: a Base Station, a Home Key, and a network of detection sensors. Home Heartbeat is ZigBee ready.
Home Heartbeat (the North American version) will launch in early 2006.
More details on the Home Heartbeat site.