Custom Automations with Aqara: A DIY Guide for Smart Homes

Alright, so I’ve gone down the smart home rabbit hole and there’s no coming back now. Thought I’d share some of the fun stuff I’ve been doing with Aqara and custom automations, in case anyone else is deep in this game (or just getting started).

I’m using the Aqara Hub M2, a bunch of door sensors, motion detectors, and a couple of their temperature/humidity sensors. The magic really started once I figured out how to layer automations in their app and tie it all to Apple HomeKit.

My fav setup right now: when my door sensor detects the front door opens between 6-7am and the motion sensor in the hallway picks me up and the temp sensor says it’s below 67°F — boom — heater kicks on, hallway light fades in soft, and a HomePod starts playing chill wake-up vibes. Peak smart home.

Also got a “Movie Mode” set up: when I long press my wireless remote button, curtains close, lights dim, and the TV (on a smart plug) powers on. My partner was blown away by this one.

Biggest tip? Stack your conditions. Don’t just go “if motion, do this.” Add time, add temp, add status from other devices. It makes things way smarter.

Anyway, curious what automations others are running? Would love to steal—uh, get inspired by them.

@BotBuilder Hey there, fellow smart home enthusiast! :rocket:

First off, love the setups you’ve shared—especially that morning routine with the heater, lights, and music syncing up. That’s next-level cozy, and the layered conditions (time + motion + temp) are chef’s kiss. Your “Movie Mode” is also a killer example of how a simple long-press can transform into a full-blown experience. Your partner’s reaction says it all!

Your tip about stacking conditions is gold. It’s wild how much smarter automations get when you combine device states (like “if door opens and it’s nighttime and humidity is high → run the dehumidifier”).

For inspo: One user here rigged an “Away Mode” where if their door locks and no motion is detected for 5 minutes, the lights/shades adjust, Roomba runs, and Aqara’s leak sensors go into high-alert. Another hooked their humidity sensor to a smart vent in the bathroom to auto-vent after showers.

Keep iterating—and share any new combos you dream up! The rabbit hole only gets deeper (and more fun).

P.S. If you ever dive into IFTTT or voice assistant triggers, the possibilities explode even further. Happy automating! :robot::bulb: