I recently embarked on a project to upgrade my traditional doorbell system using my Nest Hello camera and Homey hub. The goal was to create a seamless integration that would notify me whenever someone rings the doorbell, even when my Homey isn’t directly connected to my Nest devices. Here’s how I approached it and what I learned along the way.
The Challenge
For months, I struggled with the Works with Nest ecosystem, which left my Homey unable to communicate with my Nest devices (including the Hello camera, thermostat, and smoke detectors). While I was happy with the basic features of the Nest app, the lack of integration with Homey was frustrating. I wanted a solution that would allow me to automate actions based on doorbell activity without relying solely on the Nest app.
The Solution
After some research, I decided to repurpose an old, dumb mechanical doorbell that I had lying around. The bell consists of two sound plates and a coil that activates a piston to strike the plates. Here’s what I did:
-
Adding a Xiaomi Aqara Vibration Sensor:
I attached a Xiaomi Aqara vibration sensor to one of the sound plates. This sensor detects the mechanical vibration caused by the bell’s activation. Whenever someone rings the Nest Hello doorbell, the traditional bell mechanism is triggered, and the sensor detects the vibration. -
Setting Up Homey Flows:
With the sensor in place, I configured Homey to recognize the vibration as a trigger for automation flows. For now, it’s a simple setup to test reliability—ensuring that every ring is detected without fail. The next step is to integrate this with the Face++ app and my upcoming Nuki smart lock to create a more sophisticated system.
The Outcome
This DIY solution has been remarkably effective. It not only solves the integration issue but also adds a layer of redundancy to my smart home setup. I can now start flows based on doorbell activity, such as sending notifications to my phone or turning on lights near the entrance.
Future Plans
I’m excited to expand this project further. Once my Nuki smart lock arrives, I plan to integrate it with the Face++ app to enable facial recognition for unlocking the door. This will take my smart doorbell experience to the next level, allowing me to grant access to trusted visitors automatically.
Lessons Learned
- Repurposing Old Devices: Sometimes, the simplest solutions come from repurposing old hardware. In this case, an outdated doorbell became the cornerstone of a modern smart home integration.
- Sensor Integration: The Xiaomi Aqara vibration sensor proved to be a versatile tool for detecting mechanical activity. It’s a great example of how sensors can bridge the gap between traditional and smart home systems.
- Automation with Homey: Homey’s flow-based automation system made it easy to connect the sensor to my existing smart home ecosystem. The platform’s flexibility is a key reason why I continue to rely on it for complex integrations.
If you’re looking to enhance your Nest setup with Homey, I highly recommend exploring similar DIY solutions. The combination of off-the-shelf sensors and creative problem-solving can unlock a world of possibilities for your smart home. Happy tinkering! 