Recently, I decided to tackle a fun and slightly unnecessary project: integrating my soda machine into my smart home setup using Hubitat. The goal was to control the soda machine with Alexa voice commands, and I’m thrilled to share my journey and results with you!
The soda machine in question is a Royal Vendors Merlin model, and after some research, I decided to use three Zooz ZEN16 multi-relay modules to handle the control. Each relay module provides three dry contacts, which was perfect for managing the eight selections on the soda machine. I also wanted to control the compressor, so I repurposed one of the relay slots for that.
One of the key challenges was figuring out how to trigger the vending cycle without dealing with the machine’s internal sensors. After some experimentation, I discovered that setting the soda machine to free-vend mode and using the relays to simulate button presses was the cleanest solution. This meant setting the price for each selection to $0.00 on the machine, which allowed me to automate the button press via the relays.
The installation process was a mix of excitement and frustration. I had to source the correct spade connectors for the buttons, which were a non-standard size, and I learned the importance of labeling the buttons before wiring them up. I also soldered the wires to ensure a secure connection, which was a task I should have tackled years ago!
Once everything was connected, I programmed the relays in Hubitat to simulate a two-second button press, which is the same as garage door mode. This setup allows Alexa to control the soda machine seamlessly. I even added a Geo-Location rule so that my favorite beer selection is disabled when I’m away from home, just to keep the kids honest!
I also upgraded the lighting on the soda machine’s door to high-density 5000K LED strips, which not only look better but also reduce the light pollution in my backyard. I used an RGBgenie single-channel Z-Wave controller to manage the lighting, and I can now dim the lights through Alexa or the Hubitat app.
While I’m proud of how this project turned out, I’m already brainstorming the next steps. I’m thinking about adding a vibration sensor to detect when a soda is dispensed, which could help monitor the machine’s inventory. This would be a fun way to automate restocking or even send a notification when a particular selection is empty.
For anyone considering a similar project, here are a few tips:
- Invest in the right connectors: The spade connectors for the buttons were crucial, and they weren’t something I could find at Home Depot.
- Label everything before wiring: I didn’t, and it’s now a bit of a mystery which button corresponds to which drink.
- Upgrade the lighting: The old fluorescent lights were causing radio frequency interference, which could have been problematic in the long run.
This project has been a fantastic way to combine my love for smart home automation with a bit of DIY fun. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying projects are the ones that solve a problem you didn’t even know you had!
Cheers to all the fellow soda enthusiasts out there, and here’s to many more automated refills!