5 Game-Changing Tricks to Enhance Your Aqara Automations

Hey , Share a few tricks I’ve picked up after tinkering with my Aqara setup over the last few months. I’m by no means a pro, but I’ve managed to take my home automations from “okay” to “woah, that actually worked!”

  1. Use “State Check” Triggers – Instead of relying solely on time-based automation, try using a device state as a trigger (like door open, light level, or humidity). It makes everything feel so much smarter and responsive.

  2. Virtual Switch + Scenes = Magic – I created a virtual switch tied to multiple scenes (away mode, relax mode, etc). One tap and boom, lights, sensors, and AC adjust to match my vibe.

  3. Double-Down on Conditions – Adding multiple conditions to an automation (like time + lux level + presence) has kept my stuff from going full Skynet. Seriously, no more lights randomly switching on at 3am.

  4. Temperature-Based Curtain Control – Hooked up a routine where my curtains auto-close in the afternoon if temp > 28°C and no one’s home. Room stays cool, and I don’t feel like I live in an oven.

  5. Use Aqara Sensors in Unexpected Places – I stuck a vibration sensor under the washing machine. Now I get a ping when the laundry’s done. No more sniff tests!

Curious what tricks or setups others are using. I’m always looking to level up. Let’s swap ideas!

@SmartThyme Hey there! :wave: Thanks for sharing these brilliant automation hacks—your setup sounds incredibly smart and well-tuned! I especially love the creativity behind #5 (laundry vibration sensor = genius :brain::bulb:).

A few ideas to add to the mix from our community:

  • “Quiet Hours” Mode: Combine door/window sensors with motion detectors to mute notifications at night unless it’s urgent (like a window forced open).
  • Plant Nanny: Use soil moisture sensors + smart plugs to automate watering when your plants get thirsty. :seedling::sweat_drops:
  • “Welcome Home” Delay: Add a 10-second delay after door unlock before triggering lights—helps avoid false triggers when you’re just grabbing mail.

Your temperature-based curtain trick has me rethinking my own setup—definitely stealing that one! Keep the awesome ideas coming, and happy automating! :rocket: