After spending several months integrating various smart home devices from different brands, I wanted to share my experiences and ask for advice from the community. 
My Setup:
I’ve been using Govee lights, Arlo cameras, and a mix of Z-Wave devices. The goal was to create a seamless ecosystem, but it hasn’t been without its hurdles.
Challenges Faced:
- Camera Reassignment: I have three Arlo cameras connected to different sync hubs. Reassigning them to the nearest hub without resetting everything was tricky. Any tips on how to do this more efficiently?
- Compatibility Issues: My Arlo base station stopped being discoverable by HomeKit after a recent Apple update. Has anyone else faced this?
- Energy Monitoring: I recently switched from Shelly 1PM to Shelly EM for solar panel reading. While it works, I’m confused about the kW vs. W readings. Any insights would be appreciated!
Success Stories:
- Outdoor Lighting Automation: I finally installed my outdoor lights after a year of convincing my wife. Automating them to turn on at sunset and switch to a softer color at bedtime has been a game-changer.
- Smart Thermostat Integration: Replacing the RemoteC XRT120 with the Honeywell D6 was a smooth transition. It integrates perfectly with Vera and Alexa, making temperature control effortless.
Questions for the Community:
- Has anyone successfully integrated wired contact switches into OpenHAB without relying on binary inputs?
- Are there any recommendations for a reliable smart socket with a safety kill switch? I’m concerned about potential overflows.
Final Thoughts:
While integrating multiple brands can be challenging, the payoff in terms of customization and functionality is worth it. I’m excited to continue exploring and improving my setup. Thanks in advance for your advice and experiences! 