Hey everyone! I’ve been diving into the world of smart plugs and integrating them into my home automation setup, and I wanted to share my experiences and ask a few questions. 
First off, I’ve been using Tuya smart plugs with Alexa for a while now, and they’ve been pretty reliable. For example, saying, ‘Alexa, turn on the lounge light’ works seamlessly by activating the smart plug connected to the lamp. But recently, I’ve been exploring Zigbee2MQTT to fix some issues with my motion sensors, and I’m curious about how this might affect my current setup.
I recently switched a Wi-Fi Tuya plug to a Zigbee version to extend my network range and renamed it ‘Lounge Light’ in Zigbee2MQTT. Now, I’m wondering if I can still use Alexa to control it without setting up Nabu Casa. I’ve done some research, but the answers I found were a bit confusing, especially since most discussions focus on controlling Alexa through Home Assistant rather than the other way around.
On another note, I stumbled upon a great deal on Govee smart plugs—four for just $12! It’s a steal, and I’m excited to try them out. I’m curious if anyone else has experience with these plugs and how they perform in terms of reliability and integration with other systems.
Lastly, I’ve been thinking about expanding my smart home ecosystem by adding a smart door lock. I’m currently using SmartThings and would love to find a lock that integrates smoothly with it. My ideal setup would allow me to unlock the door via my iPhone using proximity, add guest keys, and receive notifications when the door is opened. If anyone has recommendations or experiences with specific locks, I’d love to hear about them!
Looking forward to your insights and tips! 