I’ve been absolutely thrilled with my recent project using the Particle Photon to automate my pool and solar heating system. 
It all started when I wanted a more seamless way to manage my pool’s operations without constantly checking manual controls. Little did I know, this project would evolve into a fully customized smart solution that’s not only efficient but also incredibly fun to build!The Photon’s built-in web functionality was the key to unlocking this project’s potential. I integrated it with a custom PCB I designed using OSHPark, which allowed me to control everything from the pool pump to the solar heating system. The best part? It all communicates seamlessly with SmartThings, giving me the ability to monitor and adjust settings right from my phone. 
One of the biggest challenges was getting the code just right for SmartThings. It was a steep learning curve, but the payoff was worth it. Now, I have two fully functional device types—one for the pool pump and another for the solar heater. The Photon’s versatility really shines here, offering much more customization than off-the-shelf solutions.For anyone looking to embark on a similar project, I’d recommend leveraging the Particle Photon for its robust capabilities. The documentation and community support are fantastic, and there’s a wealth of resources available to help you troubleshoot and optimize your setup. Plus, seeing everything come together and watching my pool run like clockwork has been incredibly rewarding.If you’re curious about diving into custom automation, I’ve shared all the details, including how to customize the Device Types to suit your needs, on my GitHub repository. 
Here’s to more innovative projects and smarter homes! 
