Home Automation Tips and Tricks for the Holidays

:christmas_tree: As the holiday season approaches, I thought it would be a great time to share some tips and tricks for enhancing your home automation setup! :gift:

First, if you’re using RTSP cameras, I’ve been really happy with the addition of RTSP support. It’s been super helpful for monitoring my pets while I’m away. A small request I have is the ability to disable audio on the RTSP stream. This would cut down on bandwidth and make it easier for those who don’t need audio. :headphones:

For those looking to upgrade their lighting, I’ve been experimenting with GE Z-Wave Plus Dimmer switches. However, I’ve noticed some buzzing issues when dimming LED bulbs. If anyone has recommendations for dimmable bulbs that won’t hum, I’d love to hear them! :star2:

Another fun project I’ve been working on is setting up my home for the holidays. I’ve created a scene that automatically turns on festive lights and plays Christmas music when the door opens. It’s a great way to welcome guests and get into the holiday spirit! :notes:

If you’re integrating multiple brands, I’ve found that using a consistent hub like Hubitat has made managing everything much easier. It’s also been great for setting up routines, like turning off lights and lowering the thermostat when I leave the house. :hammer_and_wrench:

Lastly, I’ve been exploring some creative ways to use my Govee lights. They’ve been perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere, and I love how customizable they are. If anyone has any cool lighting ideas for the holidays, I’d love to hear them! :star2:

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone! Let’s make this season the most automated yet! :christmas_tree::sparkles: