Help me build a smart home

Aqara Products
1

Hi! @AqaraBot

I have received these 12 tips, which Aqara products can you recommend and can you give me 10 automation tips with these products.

:closed_lock_with_key: 1. Choose a solid smart hub
Start with a central device (smart hub) that supports multiple protocols such as Zigbee, Thread or Matter. This provides flexibility and future-proofing.

:door: 2. Install smart door locks
Use door locks with codes, RFID or app control. Make sure they support local control in addition to cloud access, for better security and operation even without the internet.

:window: 3. Secure windows and doors with sensors
Use magnetic contacts or vibration sensors that notify opening/closing and possible break-in attempts. Connect this to alarms or push notifications.

:droplet: 4. Install water leak sensors
Place sensors under sinks, water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers. Use smart water stops that can automatically cut off the water supply in the event of a leak.

:fire: 5. Install smoke, gas and CO sensors
Choose devices that both provide local alarms and send notifications to your mobile phone (e.g. Netatmo, Nest Protect, or Fibaro CO Sensor). Feel free to combine with flashing lights and sirens via automations.

:bulb: 6. Use smart light switches and bulbs
Install Zigbee or WiFi-based switches and light bulbs. Create automations that turn lights on/off based on movement, time of day or sunset.

:male_detective: 7. Integrate motion sensors smartly
Use PIR sensors at entrances, hallways and rooms you want to monitor. Use these for both lighting control and security alarms. Also consider multi-sensors that measure temperature, light and movement simultaneously.

:brain: 8. Create smart automations
Examples:

Turn off all lights and lock the door when you leave the house.

Send a notification if a window is open when you leave home.

Automatic night mode that turns on alarms and sensors after 11 p.m.

:iphone: 9. Use local solutions where possible
Minimize cloud dependency. Home Assistant lets you control everything locally, which increases privacy, speed, and reliability. Cloud services can be used for remote access, but local control should be the foundation.

:video_camera: 10. Integrate cameras with notifications
Use cameras that support motion detection and notifications. Avoid cloud-based cameras if privacy is important. Make sure the cameras don’t trigger false alarms from small movements.

:electric_plug: 11. Smart power management
Use smart plugs or relays to control appliances. Monitor power usage and automatically turn off dangerous appliances (like irons or heaters) if no one is home.

:arrows_counterclockwise: 12. Have a plan for power outages and network failures
Install UPS (emergency power) on your hub and router. Use automations that work locally without the internet. Test that alarm systems and sensors still notify in the event of a network outage.

2

@Stian Hello! It’s fantastic that you’re diving into building a smart home. Let’s explore some Aqara products that align with your tips and create a few automation ideas.

  1. Smart Hub: Consider the Aqara Hub M100, which supports local automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, enhancing speed and privacy without relying on the internet.

  2. Smart Door Locks: The Aqara Smart Door Lock K100 is an excellent choice. It’s equipped with features like fingerprint and password unlocking, and it can integrate with your home automation to trigger lights when you arrive.

  3. Window and Door Sensors: The Door/Window Sensor T1 from Aqara is perfect for securing your home. It can alert you to unauthorized openings and integrate with alarms.

  4. Water Leak Sensors: While the specific Aqara water leak sensor isn’t mentioned, integrating water sensors with automation to cut off supply can be achieved through Aqara’s ecosystem.

  5. Smoke, Gas, and CO Sensors: While specific smoke or gas sensors aren’t listed, integrating these with lights and sirens can be done using Aqara’s automation capabilities.

  6. Smart Light Switches and Bulbs: Aqara products include Zigbee-based solutions like the Aqara Smart 20A Switch, which supports multi-way control and automation to light up your home when you return.

  7. Motion Sensors: Aqara’s motion sensors can be placed strategically to automate lighting and security systems.

  8. Smart Automations: Here are a few automation ideas using Aqara products:

    • Automatically lock doors and turn off lights when leaving.
    • Trigger a security alarm if a window is detected open at night.
    • Use the Aqara Panel Hub S1 Plus to display live video feeds when the doorbell is triggered for added security.

  9. Local Solutions: Aqara hubs like the M100 support local execution of automations, ensuring quick responses and increased privacy.

  10. Cameras with Notifications: The Camera Hub G3 could be your go-to, offering motion detection and notifications while maintaining privacy.

  11. Smart Power Management: Use the Aqara Smart Plug EU to control appliances and monitor power usage. Automate the shutdown of devices when not in use.

  12. Power Outage Plans: Aqara hubs support local automation execution, ensuring operations remain functional even during network outages.

Feel free to explore these suggestions, and don’t hesitate to ask more questions or share your progress with the community!

3

Thanks for the reply, lots to get my head around now. Forgot to mention that I live in Europe, what door locks I can use and that Aqara has smoke detectors.

4

@Stian Hello Stian!

Great to hear that you’re diving into the world of smart homes! Since you’re in Europe, it’s important to note that the Aqara A100 Zigbee door lock isn’t officially available in Europe, so you might want to consider other options or check for future updates from Aqara about availability.

Regarding smoke detectors, Aqara does offer a Smart Smoke Detector that could fit your needs. It uses a photoelectric sensor to detect smoke and can send notifications to your mobile device through the Aqara hub. This device provides a local alarm and can be integrated into your smart home automations.

If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to the community. We’re here to help and share ideas as you build your smart home!