Hello everyone, I wanted to share an exciting project I’ve been working on—automating my motorhome! It’s been a fascinating journey filled with challenges and triumphs. Let me walk you through my experience and some tips I’ve picked up along the way.
The Motivation
After the disruptions of the past few years, my partner and I decided to invest in a motorhome to explore more of the UK and, hopefully,Europe in the future. While she was initially hesitant about adding any tech, I saw this as the perfect opportunity to experiment with home automation on a smaller scale.
The Goals
We wanted to ensure our motorhome was not just a vehicle but a smart, secure space. My primary objectives were:
- Reliable Connectivity: Ensuring we could stay connected while on the road.
- Security Monitoring: Keeping an eye on the motorhome when it’s stored.
- Environmental Monitoring: Tracking temperature, humidity, and potential leaks.
- Battery Management: Monitoring the leisure battery to avoid unexpected issues.
The Setup
I decided to use a Hubitat hub as the central brain, choosing Zigbee devices for their reliability and lower power consumption. Here’s a quick rundown of the components:
- Leak Sensors: Placed strategically to detect any water issues.
- Motion Sensors: For security when the motorhome is unoccupied.
- Temperature & Humidity Sensors: To keep the environment comfortable.
- Security Camera: With motion detection and privacy features.
- Battery Monitoring: Using a Shelly device to track the leisure battery.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the biggest hurdles was ensuring reliable internet connectivity. After some research, I opted for a Maxview Mobile Internet System, which combines Wi-Fi with 3G/4G fallback. This setup has been rock-solid, even when we’re off-grid.
Another challenge was monitoring the leisure battery voltage. After some trial and error, I found that the Shelly Uni device was the perfect solution, offering the necessary ADC inputs to accurately track the battery status.
Security Camera Integration
I’m a big fan of Ring cameras, so I integrated one into the motorhome. To ensure privacy, I used a Shelly 1 relay to control the camera’s power based on our presence. This setup means we’re only recorded when we’re actively using the motorhome.
Software and Automation
I developed a custom app to handle data collection and notifications. The app monitors all the sensors and sends alerts via email or Pushover for any issues like leaks, unauthorized motion, or extreme temperatures. I also created a secondary app for device health monitoring, ensuring everything stays connected and functional.
Lessons Learned
- Battery Life: Zigbee devices have been more reliable than expected, especially given the confined space of the motorhome.
- Failover Connectivity: The Maxview system’s ability to switch seamlessly between Wi-Fi and cellular has been a lifesaver.
- Privacy is Key: Integrating the camera with a relay ensures we’re only monitored when we’re present.
- Custom Solutions: Sometimes, off-the-shelf solutions don’t fit perfectly, and a bit of DIY can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
This project has been incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about the tech; it’s about creating a space that feels safe, comfortable, and connected. I’ve learned so much along the way, and I’m excited to continue refining the system as we explore more of the UK and beyond.
If anyone has questions or suggestions, I’d love to hear from you! Happy automating!