Hey everyone, I wanted to share my recent project to automate my kitchen ventilation system using the Shelly Plus 2PM. This setup has been a game-changer for my cooking experience and indoor air quality!
The Challenge
We recently installed a chimney in our kitchen, which required a ventilation hood that only operates when the window is open. Unfortunately, our kitchen window faces the street, so we often end up with exhaust fumes from cars entering the kitchen. I needed a smarter solution to ensure proper ventilation without compromising air quality.
The Solution
My husband suggested using an electric exhaust flap installed on the wall opposite the street side. This flap would act as an intake for fresh air while the ventilation hood runs. The goal was to automate this system so that whenever the hood is turned on, the flap opens automatically.
The Setup
Here’s how we connected everything:
- Shelly Plus 2PM: This device acts as the central controller. It monitors the ventilation hood’s power consumption and triggers the exhaust flap’s motor accordingly.
- Shelly Plug: The ventilation hood is plugged into this smart plug, which measures the power usage. When the hood turns on, the plug detects the increased power consumption and sends a signal to the Shelly Plus 2PM.
- Relay and Exhaust Flap: The Shelly Plus 2PM controls a relay that powers the exhaust flap motor, ensuring it opens whenever the hood is active.
How It Works
- When I turn on the ventilation hood, the Shelly Plug detects the power draw and sends a signal to the Shelly Plus 2PM.
- The Shelly Plus 2PM then activates the relay, which powers the motor of the exhaust flap, opening it to allow fresh air into the kitchen.
- Once the hood is turned off, the flap closes automatically, maintaining energy efficiency.
Results
This setup has been a huge success! Not only does it ensure proper ventilation, but it also prevents unwanted fumes from entering the kitchen. Plus, it’s fully automated, so I don’t have to worry about manually opening or closing the flap.
Tips for Others
If you’re considering a similar project, here are a few tips:
- Ensure all components are compatible and rated for your electrical system.
- Test each part of the system individually before integrating them.
- Use reliable automation software or platforms to manage your smart devices.
I’m really happy with how this project turned out and would love to hear about your own smart home automation experiences! 