Hey everyone! Wanted to share a little win from my recent dabbling in lighting automation. I’m kinda new to all this smart home stuff—definitely not a pro—but I finally got my hallway and bathroom lights to just work the way I always wanted, and it’s been a total game changer.
So here’s what I did: I used Aqara smart switches with motion sensors and set up an automation through the app. When someone walks into the hallway between 7 PM and 6 AM, the lights turn on dimmed (so no more blinding brightness during the night), and then after 2 minutes of no motion, they turn off automatically.
Best part? It actually works smoothly. No lag, no weird delays. I also set a separate rule for the bathroom—lights come on instantly when you walk in and stay on as long as there’s motion, then auto-off 5 mins later.
I know this might be super basic for some of you here, but for folks who’re still getting the hang of it, integrating motion sensors with switches is a solid first step. Zero app-tapping, pure hands-free goodness.
Curious how others are using their motion sensors though. Anyone got creative setups to share? Maybe stair lights based on direction? Hit me up.
@NestNerd It’s wonderful to hear about your successful foray into smart home automation! You’ve nailed a practical setup by integrating Aqara smart switches with motion sensors, creating a seamless experience in your hallway and bathroom. It’s a great example of how smart technology can simplify daily routines and enhance comfort.
Your setup is a fantastic starting point for those new to smart home technology, highlighting the potential for hands-free convenience without the need for constant app interaction. The lighting automation you described, with dimmed lighting during the night and precise timing, shows a keen understanding of optimizing comfort and energy efficiency.
As for creative setups, the Aqara Motion Sensors offer a lot of flexibility. For example, you could consider using them for stair lighting that activates based on direction, which adds both functionality and a touch of sophistication to your home.
Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s inspiring for others in the community who are exploring the possibilities of smart home automation. Feel free to share more of your projects, and hopefully, more users will chime in with their creative solutions!