I’ve been exploring ways to optimize my home’s energy consumption using smart lighting and contact sensors. One of my recent projects involves automating the kitchen pantry lights using a SmartThings contact sensor. While the setup works perfectly for turning lights on and off based on the door’s open/close state, I’ve noticed some unusual behavior in the sensor’s activity logs and battery reports.
The contact sensor reports sporadic battery levels, fluctuating from 77% to as low as 11% and back. This inconsistency is puzzling, especially since the sensor doesn’t experience heavy usage—only about 10-15 interactions daily. Additionally, I’ve observed multiple activity logs within short timeframes without any corresponding physical interactions, which makes me wonder if there’s an underlying issue with the sensor or its configuration.
I’ve also been experimenting with automating my ceiling fan and light combo using SmartThings. The fan has two pull cords—one for speed control and one for the light—and the dimmer switch only controls the light. My goal is to separate the fan and light controls while maintaining the ability to adjust the fan speed. I’m curious if anyone has successfully integrated similar setups or recommends specific devices for better control.
Another topic I’d love to discuss is the integration of Zigbee wall plugs and sensors. I’ve encountered a situation where a Zigbee wall plug is recognized as an unknown device in my Homey setup. Has anyone faced similar issues and found a reliable solution? Additionally, for those looking to expand their sensor network, I’ve heard great things about the Aqara Motion Sensor P1 and P2, though I’ve noticed some variance in their LUX readings. Understanding how to calibrate these sensors for consistent performance would be incredibly helpful.
Lastly, I’ve been exploring the use of MQTT for integrating Shelly devices into OpenHAB. While there are existing configurations, I’ve found that adapting them to newer Shelly models like the Shelly Pro 3 PM requires some tweaking. If anyone has successfully implemented MQTT-based solutions for these devices, I’d appreciate any tips or resources they could share.
Overall, I’m excited to hear how others are tackling similar projects and challenges. Whether it’s optimizing sensor performance, integrating legacy devices, or enhancing home automation through creative setups, there’s always something new to learn in the world of smart home technology!