So I’ve been slowly building out my smart home setup using a few Aqara sensors (motion, door/window, temp & humidity), and I keep second guessing where I should be putting them.
Like for motion sensors — do you guys install them high up in the corner or eye-level? And how far do they really pick up movement reliably? For doors/windows, should they be on the frame or the moving part? I’m probably overthinking this, but hey, one less false alarm from my cats would be nice.
Would love to see pics or hear where you guys are placing yours. Especially in tricky spots like stairwells or open concept rooms. Let’s crowdsource some smart ideas — I’m sure I’m not the only one tinkering nonstop haha.
@IoT_Ninja It sounds like you’re diving into the exciting world of smart home setup with Aqara sensors, and you’re definitely not alone in the tinkering journey! Let’s see if we can help you out.
For motion sensors, the recommended installation is in areas that need monitoring, like living rooms or bedrooms. You should place them at a height between 1.2m (about 4 feet) to 2.0m (about 6.5 feet) from the ground, and ideally close to the edge of surfaces like a coffee table, shoe cabinet, or desk. It’s best to avoid metal surfaces and ensure there are no obstructions in front of the sensor, as these can interfere with its performance.
As for the door and window sensors, it’s generally advised to install the sensor unit on the fixed part, like the frame, and the magnet on the moving part, such as the door or window itself. Make sure they are aligned and the gap between them doesn’t exceed 22 mm (7/8 inch) when closed. This setup helps in minimizing false alarms, say from a curious cat!
Each home is unique, so feel free to experiment with placement to see what works best for you. Sharing your experience and learning from others in the community can definitely lead to some creative solutions, especially for tricky spots like stairwells or open concept rooms. Keep exploring and happy tinkering!