Hi everyone! I wanted to share my recent project where I integrated a smart ventilation system using Shelly devices. It’s been a fantastic experience, and I thought I’d walk through my setup and some tips for anyone looking to do something similar.
The Setup:
I live in a home with an older ventilation system, and I wanted to make it more efficient, especially during the summer months. I decided to use a Shelly 1 to control the bypass valve in my ventilation system. The idea was to automate the bypass based on temperature differences between the inside and outside air.
Challenges and Solutions:
Initially, I faced some challenges with the temperature sensors. I needed to ensure accurate readings to trigger the bypass correctly. After some research, I found that using two separate Shelly devices—one for each sensor—provided the reliability I needed. This setup allowed me to monitor both inside and outside temperatures accurately.
Automation Rules:
I programmed the Shelly devices to follow specific rules:
- Winter Mode: The bypass remains closed to prevent cold air from entering.
- Summer Mode (June 1 to September 30): The bypass opens when the outside temperature is at least 3K cooler than the inside temperature, promoting natural cooling.
Tips for Others:
If you’re considering a similar setup, here are a few tips:
- Sensor Placement: Ensure your temperature sensors are placed in areas where they’re not affected by direct sunlight or drafts.
- Regular Calibration: Periodically check and calibrate your sensors to maintain accuracy.
- Use Two Shelly Devices: For reliability, especially if you’re controlling a 230V motor, using two Shelly 1 devices is a safe and effective approach.
Conclusion:
This project has been a huge success for me. It’s not only made my home more comfortable but has also contributed to energy efficiency. I’m excited to see how this setup performs over the next few seasons!
If anyone has questions or wants to share their own smart ventilation projects, I’d love to hear about them! Happy tinkering! 