I recently stumbled upon the idea of integrating smart home technology into my boat, and I must say, it’s been an exciting journey! My primary goal was to remotely monitor for water leaks in the hull, and I’ve found that using multiple leak detectors paired with Hubitat has been a game-changer. It’s incredibly reassuring to know that my boat remains dry while I’m away.
The boat is an enclosed, two-story vessel with multiple rooms, generators, and various systems similar to those in a house. With local processing, all the rules work seamlessly even when underway and without an internet connection. For instance, passage lights automatically dim, and fans turn on when compartments get too hot or humid. These automated features make life on the boat much easier and safer.
Safety is my top concern, and having smoke and carbon monoxide detectors integrated into the system adds an extra layer of protection. The ability to alert the crew and activate safety measures like turning on lights, controlling exhaust fans, and shutting down climate systems could potentially save lives.
I’ve also explored using smart thermostats to monitor and control temperatures remotely. This is especially useful when I’m not on board. While there are expensive proprietary systems designed for boats, Hubitat’s flexibility and creativity allow me to achieve similar results at a fraction of the cost.
I’d love to hear from others who have implemented smart home solutions on their boats. What challenges did you face? What tips or tricks can you share? Let’s continue this conversation and help each other make our boats safer and more enjoyable!