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Home Improvement Stack Exchange

Questions tagged [home-automation]

Questions related to automation of home elements like: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, light, audio-video systems, security, intercoms and domestic robotics. For questions related to the Internet of Things, consider asking at the IoT site (iot.stackexchange.com).

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What are some scalable, affordable home automation options?

I've been looking to set up a home automation system in my house for a while now, but I'm having trouble committing to any one starting point. I'd like to set up an initial system that controls maybe two or three outlets and one or two overhead…
Daisy Sophia Hollman
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How to keep home automation complexity under control?

If you installed some form of home automation (lighting control for example), how did you keep the complexity manageable for your family members? In many cases where friends have installed some form of home automation, I see that the person who…
Jan Fabry
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Which communication bus systems for home automation?

Many communication systems have been proposed for home automation (e.g., HVAC control, alarms, access control, light control, and entertainment), including 1-Wire and X10. Which system is best suitable for a beginning home automation DIYer,…
Vebjorn Ljosa
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Good resources to learn about Home Automation

I'm looking to automate my home but know nothing about HA. What are some good resources to learn both the beginner stuff and more advanced topics.
Carlos G.
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Wiring for Internet of Things

I'm interested in home automation and the Internet of Things and what options presently exist in the relatively cutting-edge field. I would like to know if it is possible to use something like a central home computer (equivalent to ECUs in vehicles)…
amphibient
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Home automation depending on who entered the home

I am looking for a way to automate some stuff in my household depending on who entered home. The only way I can think of implementing this is by checking which device connected to the WiFi. For example when I come home I want the water heater to…
John Demetriou
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What is the most common home automation technology?

I will soon move in my new house and I am looking to create a custom home automation system using what already exists on the market. The most important thing would be to interface well with existing products on the market, for example lamps, fridge,…
Aki
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Integrate water circulation pump with Alexa to guarantee shut off in 10 minutes

I have a water circulation pump which is useful for getting hot water to the showers without wasting water. However, I am undoubtedly running up my natural gas bill in the process by running the pump too long. Is there an inexpensive way to set up…
Setjmp
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Connecting multiple hubs to a single Z-Wave device

First off, please forgive me if this is not the right Stack Exchange site for this. I figured this was the best option. Is it possible to hook up multiple hubs/controllers to a single Z-Wave device? For example, if I have a GE Simon XT alarm system…
the-nick-wilson
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Getting notified when things fail

There are a lot of things around the home which can be automated. For instance, at certain times during the day lights get turned on, sprinkler systems run, and so forth. Some of these operate based on time, while other operate based on need, such…
Michael
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Comparison of various home-automation systems?

Could anyone provide a comparison (or just link) of home-automation systems (such as FS 20, HomeEasy, RSL, ...)? (Wikipedia contains just a short list and I am unable to find something something neutral and more comprehensive.)
TN.
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Any obvious problems with this DIY home automation?

I'd like to know if anyone sees big issues with this system I want to implement in my home. The software is in beta, I will start doing the hardware side of things in a few weeks. Current Home Status almost all lights are temporary push-buttons…
vlad b.
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How to add smart controller to ceiling fan with single switched hot

I want a WiFi connected smart controller for my ceiling fans. They are all wired with a single switched hot, so I cannot use a replacement smart switch alone. Are there any wall mounted switches that work nicely with a ceiling mounted…
Benjamin Cuningham
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Does an app exist to allow mobile control of Velux windows?

We live in a rental apartment and we have several windows by Velux controlled with homecontrol-io. Is there an accessory that performs as a gateway and allows to control the windows with a smartphone?
Matteo
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What's the name of automatic/self moving table equipments?

There are some self/automatic moving home decor objects that oscillate like pendulum either kept in entrance drawing room or some office table.I think that they move without any power source (battery). I want to buy them but not able to find out…
starspeed
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