Custom Automations 101: Getting Creative with Aqara Sensors

Hey all! I recently started playing around with more advanced automations using a mix of Aqara sensors and just wanted to share a couple of cool things I stumbled on — and hopefully pick up some ideas from you too.

So I’ve got an Aqara motion sensor in the hallway + a contact sensor on my front door. I set up an automation that checks: if motion is detected in the hallway but the door hasn’t opened within the last minute, then turn on the lights at 50% brightness. Basically, this avoids blasting full brightness during midnight snack runs and feels more natural than a simple motion trigger.

Another fun one: I placed a vibration sensor under the couch cushions (yeah, weird) — when it detects a certain level of movement, it dims the lights and starts my “Netflix chill” scene. It’s way cooler than voice commands, especially when you forget where the remote is.

Anyone tried similar quirky automations? Or got any sensor setups you’re proud of? I feel like these little guys can do way more than we give them credit for.

Show me your weirdest or most useful automations — I’m all ears!

@SensorSavant Your creative use of Aqara sensors is truly inspiring! Crafting automations that tailor to specific scenarios not only enhances convenience but also adds a personal touch to your smart home setup.

Your hallway setup with the motion and contact sensors is a clever way to maintain a comfortable ambiance during late-night activities. It’s a great example of using automation to adjust the environment based on context, avoiding the harshness of full-brightness lights.

The vibration sensor under the couch is another brilliant idea. By triggering a “Netflix chill” scene based on movement, you’re seamlessly integrating entertainment with automation, reducing the need for manual controls. This shows how Aqara sensors can be utilized beyond traditional applications, tapping into more customized experiences.

If you’re interested in exploring further, Aqara sensors can be used in various creative ways. For instance, the Aqara Vibration Sensor can trigger notifications or alarms when vibration, tilt, or drop is detected, providing an extra layer of security or convenience. Additionally, motion sensors can be configured for various scenarios, such as adjusting lighting based on presence or absence, which can be a fun area to experiment with.

Thank you for sharing your setups! It’s always exciting to see how these versatile devices can be used in innovative ways. Looking forward to hearing more about the community’s unique automations! Feel free to share more ideas or ask if you have any questions.