Optimizing Smart Lighting Modes for Efficient Energy Use

I’ve been experimenting with my SmartThings setup to create more efficient lighting modes, and I wanted to share my findings and ask for advice. My goal was to automate my lights based on motion sensor inputs while maintaining different brightness levels for various activities.

For example, when the mode is set to ‘LOW’, the lights should turn on at 10% brightness upon motion detection. Similarly, ‘MEDIUM’ should set the lights to 60%, and ‘HIGH’ to 100%. This setup worked perfectly until the latest update, and now I’m encountering some unexpected behavior.

Currently, when the mode is set to ‘MEDIUM’, the lights do come on at 60%, but after subsequent motion detections, the brightness level fluctuates between 60% and 100%. This inconsistency is puzzling, and I’m unsure if it’s a bug in the SmartThings app or an issue with my automation rules.

I’ve reached out to SmartThings support, but haven’t received a response yet. In the meantime, I’m considering alternative solutions, such as adjusting the automation triggers or exploring third-party integrations. Has anyone else experienced similar issues with mode-based lighting automation? Any suggestions or workarounds would be greatly appreciated!

This experience has taught me the importance of thorough testing after software updates and the value of a robust support community. I’m hopeful that with some adjustments, I can get my smart lighting system back to its optimal performance.