How to Set Up a 'Goodnight' Automation for Your Smart Home

General
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I’ve been exploring ways to enhance my smart home setup, and I stumbled upon a fantastic automation idea that I wanted to share with the community. The goal was to create a ‘Goodnight’ routine that would streamline my evening routine, ensuring everything is set just right before bed. Here’s how I approached it and the success I had!

The Vision

I envisioned saying, ‘Alexa, Goodnight,’ and having my smart home execute a series of actions seamlessly. Specifically, I wanted:

  • My TV and basement lights to turn off.
  • A 20-second delay before turning off the basement lights (to ensure I don’t trip in the dark!).
  • My upstairs hallway lights to turn on, providing a gentle glow for safety.

The Setup

I use a combination of SmartThings and Hubitat for my smart home setup. Here’s how I brought this automation to life:

  1. Defining the Routine

    • I started by creating a new routine in the SmartThings app. The trigger was straightforward: a voice command, ‘Alexa, Goodnight.’
    • Next, I added the actions. The first step was turning off the TV and basement lights. I used the existing commands I had set up for these devices.
    • For the delay, I utilized the built-in ‘Delay’ action in SmartThings. I set it to 20 seconds, ensuring I had enough time to navigate safely before the lights turned off.
    • Finally, I added the action to turn on the upstairs hallway lights.

  2. Testing the Automation

    • I tested the routine multiple times to ensure everything worked as expected. The delay was crucial, and I was relieved to see it function perfectly every time.
    • I also tested it during different times of the day to make sure it didn’t interfere with other routines or settings.

  3. Refining the Experience

    • After a few adjustments, the routine became a seamless part of my evening routine. It’s amazing how such a small automation can make such a big difference in daily life!

Tips for Others

If you’re looking to create a similar automation, here are a few tips:

  • Start Simple: Begin with a basic routine and gradually add more actions as you become comfortable.
  • Test Thoroughly: Always test your routines in different scenarios to ensure they work as intended.
  • Use Delays Wisely: Delays can be incredibly helpful, especially when safety is a concern.

Conclusion

This ‘Goodnight’ automation has been a game-changer for me. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about creating a safer, more comfortable environment. I encourage anyone exploring smart home automation to give this a try! The satisfaction of seeing your smart home respond to your commands is truly rewarding.

Happy automating, everyone! :blush: