Check out my current home automation setup. Watch the YouTube video here:
Table of Contents
Intro
I kept the video high-level, so let me know what you’d like to learn more about. See below for additional information and links to the devices I use.
Smarter Devices
Tracking Locations
I use this smart switch to measure current (I use an older version that’s not sold any more).
Check out Plex for watching media.
I use Home Assistant’s device tracker to scan my network for phones.
Making Old Devices “Smart”
I use this IR blaster to control my TV. Cheaper ones have come out since I bought the above, such as this (Even cheaper on AliExpress.com, search “Broadlink RM Mini3”)
Alarm Clock
I make an alarm clock in this video.
Saving Electricity
I send notifications through Pushbullet.
I use nmap to track the status of my computers.
I use Philips Hue bulbs for lights. If you already have a Hue hub, you can get cheap bulbs here.
This link talks about Hue power usage by brightness.
Improved Interactions
I use an Alexa Tap in the video. I like the portability of the Tap, especially since the firmware update.
I also use an Alexa Dot for my bedroom, since it’s a cheap way to add voice control to a room.
Visitors & Vacation
Vacation mode was inspired by Github user “geekofweek”.
Automation Tips
Learn about Input Booleans on the Home Assistant website.
My Excel tracker is disorganized and confusing right now, but let me know if you’re interested in it and I’ll clean it up and share it.
Thanks for reading!