I recently set up my manually retractable TV ceiling mount so the TV automatically turns on when lowered, and powers off when retracted — all using Aqara gear. It’s located in a poolside grill palapa.
Hardware:
- Aqara Contact Sensor – detects mount position.
- Aqara Hub with IR blaster – sends TV commands.
- Manual retractable TV ceiling mount – This is the one I used.
How it works:
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The Contact Sensor is mounted so that it changes state when the ceiling mount is lowered or retracted.
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In the Aqara Home app, I set up:
- If Sensor = Open (mount lowered) → Hub sends TV ON via IR.
- If Sensor = Closed (mount retracted) → Hub sends TV OFF via IR.
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The IR commands are learned directly from the TV’s remote.
Why I love this setup:
- No motors or extra electronics — works with a completely manual mount.
- Prevents leaving the TV on when stored.
- Feels like magic every time the mount drops and the TV powers up.
Has anyone else here automated a manual mount? Would love to see other variations.