I’ve been diving into the world of smart lighting automation lately, and it’s been a fascinating journey!
I recently set up a system where pressing a button on my Shelly 1 switch controls three lights in my stairwell. The idea was to have a quick on/off toggle for convenience, but I wanted to add some extra functionality—like a timer for when I’m in a hurry or need extended lighting. Initially, I configured it so that a short press turns the lights on for 80 seconds, while a long press (over 800ms) keeps them on indefinitely. It worked perfectly at first, but after resetting the Shelly to its factory settings, I struggled to replicate the setup. After some trial and error, I realized the key was in the URL parameters and ensuring the right actions were triggered. Here’s a tip for anyone setting up similar automation: test each action individually before combining them. For example, make sure the short press and long press triggers work separately before linking them to the timer functions. This helps identify where the issue might be if things don’t work as expected. Another thing I learned is the importance of checking the device’s firmware and documentation. Sometimes, a simple update or a tweak in the settings can make all the difference. If you’re experimenting with timers or custom actions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the community for advice—it’s a great way to troubleshoot and pick up new tricks! For those looking to dive into smart lighting, I recommend starting with simple projects and gradually adding more complex features. It’s incredibly satisfying to see your ideas come to life and make your home that much more convenient. What are your favorite smart lighting hacks or automation tips? I’d love to hear your experiences and learn more about what everyone else is doing in this space! ![]()
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