Hello fellow smart home enthusiasts! I wanted to share my experience with implementing a thermal management system in my home, which I’ve affectionately named the ‘Thermal Strategy’. This system has been a game-changer for maintaining comfort while significantly reducing energy consumption, especially given our Mediterranean climate with its hot summers and mild winters.
The core idea behind this strategy is to mimic the way I manually adjust my home’s environment. It uses a combination of sensors, actuators, and automation rules to adapt to both internal and external conditions. For instance, during the summer, the system prioritizes passive cooling by opening windows when outdoor temperatures are cooler, and only engages the air conditioning when necessary. Similarly, in the winter, it retains heat by closing windows and using available solar energy for free heating.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this setup is how it integrates with my existing infrastructure. I’ve utilized a mix of off-the-shelf devices and DIY sensors, all connected through MQTT and Home Assistant. The system also leverages my solar PV setup, using excess energy for heating or cooling during peak demand times.
I’d love to hear from others who have implemented similar strategies or have tips on further optimizing energy use. Let’s continue to innovate and make our homes smarter and more sustainable!