As an enthusiast of home automation, I’ve been exploring various ways to integrate smart devices and create seamless automation experiences. Here’s a glimpse of my journey and some tips I’ve gathered along the way.
Tablet View - Floor Plan with Icons
One of my recent projects involves setting up tablets around the house to control devices like lights, curtains, and temperature sensors. I’ve been experimenting with CAD software to overlay device icons on floor plans. It’s incredibly satisfying to see the lights on the tablet reflect their actual state in real-time. Imagine walking into a room and seeing the floor plan light up as the lights turn on—it’s a neat way to visualize home automation!
Motion Detection Issues
I’ve encountered a peculiar issue with motion detection on my camera. The setting keeps toggling off even after I manually enable it. I’ve tried factory resets and checked the app settings, but the problem persists. If anyone has a workaround or solution, I’d be grateful for the advice!
Power Allowance App
Another area I’ve been tinkering with is energy management. The Power Allowance app has been helpful for scheduling lights, but I noticed it doesn’t cancel existing timers when a new one is set. For instance, if someone turns off a light and then turns it back on, the initial 30-minute timer still runs, causing the light to turn off prematurely. I’m considering creating a custom app to manage these timers more effectively. If anyone has experience with similar projects, please share your insights!
LED Light Strips
When it comes to lighting, I’m curious about recommendations for RGB LED light strips. Zigbee or Z-Wave compatibility is a must, and I’d prefer a reliable router if it’s Zigbee. Have any of you found a standout product that’s been trouble-free? I’d love to hear your experiences!
Voice Control with Homey
I’ve recently migrated to Homey after relying on SmartThings for years. One feature I miss is speech input, which was crucial for helping my visually impaired father control devices. If anyone has found an alternative or workaround for voice commands on Homey, I’d be eager to learn more!
Automation and Custom Solutions
Creating custom automations has been both challenging and rewarding. For example, setting up a bedtime routine that turns on pathway lights and triggers a house shutdown protocol when it’s time to sleep. These small automations add a layer of convenience that truly enhances daily life.
Community Support
The journey of home automation is as much about problem-solving as it is about creativity. I’ve found the community to be invaluable, offering support and sharing knowledge. Whether it’s troubleshooting a glitch or brainstorming a new project, the collective wisdom is inspiring.
If you have any questions, tips, or experiences to share, feel free to drop a comment! Let’s continue to innovate and improve our smart homes together. Happy automating!