Our family spent 10 enjoyable days this summer visiting England and France. That’s us above at the Palace of Versailles (which is amazing and beautiful, like most everything we saw)! Highly recommend a visit if you haven’t already and can make it work!

Now, this a home automation blog so I’ll focus mostly on those aspects here (but some more trip photos are below). In our experience as home automation users for 7+ years we’ve found that vacations and other time away from home provide an opportunity for a home automation solution to really shine. The main reasons for this are the obvious: you can monitor, check on, secure, control, etc. your home from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Quite frankly, in 2024 with ubiquitous mobile coverage, that is pretty much everywhere! The less obvious is it is a good checkpoint and value-add for the system and provides a unique set of benefits which are different than the day-to-day usage. At the same time, this also often identifies any gaps in the system and opportunities for improvement. Over the past 5+ years while developing and fine-tuning the products in EffortlessHome we have made numerous tweaks and optimizations to the system as we realized gaps, problems, and overall opportunities to make leaving an empty home as easy as possible. In this article I will talk about our experience with our home’s EffortlessHome Smart Home Premium solution, both what went well and what tweaks I had to make.

Leaving Home

You ever get the feeling you forgot to do something like lock a door or arm the security system when leaving home? I don’t (anymore)… because our home automation system does all of this for me. When all of the people in our home leave it detects that no one is in the home and automatically locks everything down and puts our home into away mode. On the off chance that we forgot to close a door or window it will send a notification and we can always call a friend or go back the 5 minutes we’ve traveled and fix it. The ability to just walk out the door and know the house will lock, arm, power down, turn off the water supply, etc. is my favorite and gives peace of mind and saves so much time and effort!

In case you’re wondering, we have addressed the situation of visitors like pet sitters (more on this below) or house sitters in prior iterations of the system. The EffortlessHome solution uses all available motion, door/window, and presence sensors in the home to determine if someone is there. Without this the house sitters would have a lot of issues and the house might even seem haunted if they didn’t know about the home automations!

Monitored Security and Cameras

Security was one of my top concerns, but with our professionally monitored system that includes smart cameras and motion sensors, I had complete control and visibility from thousands of miles away. I received real-time alerts on my phone when any movement was detected outside my front door, and I could easily access live video feeds via our app. What’s more, my system integrates with 24/7 professional monitoring, so even if I missed an alert, the monitoring service would respond and send emergency services, if needed. Thankfully, everything stayed quiet at home.

Smart Locks

With our smart lock with pin pad, I granted a temporary door access code to our pet sitter for the duration of the trip. No need to worry about giving out keys or leaving keys under the mat. We also have the automation set to disarm the security alarm whenever the correct door key codes are entered so there was no worry about the sitter setting off the alarm and having the police arrive! The system also automatically arms itself again (and the door re-locks) after the sitter leaves each time.

While we were having dinner in Paris one night, my phone alerted me that a package was on our front porch. It was an expensive item which shouldn’t be left out in the weather so I asked a neighbor to please bring it inside and I unlocked the front door remotely, let her grab the package, and then locked it again once she left.

Lighting Control

Using the Presence Simulation feature, our lights turn on and off at night at intervals which mimic our usual activity (it does this by replaying historical patterns maintained in the system’s actual usage). The lights turn on in the evenings and shut off at bed time, making it appear as though we were home like normal. This gave an extra layer of security, helping deter any potential intruders. The best part? I didn’t have to manually do anything because the system handles it all. But I did notice some room for improvement, which is discussed below…

Climate and Energy Efficiency

While we were away, our home maintained its energy efficiency through our smart thermostats. I programmed the temperature to remain at a comfortable yet cost-saving level while we were gone. As we are returning home the system automatically detects our direction as toward home and adjusts back to our normal climate settings so we return to a perfectly cool and comfortable home, avoiding the stuffy feeling many face after a long trip.

Water Damage Avoidance

As mentioned above in the leaving home section, our home has the ability to remotely turn on and off our main water supply. This is so great because I am paranoid about a water leak and the immense, expensive damage it causes. In my defense, this paranoia is justified as per recent stats “water damage is one of the most common reasons for insurance claims, averaging $10,234 per claim in the U.S“! We have water leak sensors as well, so with the combination of proactive reduction of damage by shutting off the water, along with the ability to be notified of a leak, we have significantly limited our risk exposure. As an aside, our insurance company also recognizes this and gives us a substantial premium discount for having this and other features (e.g. security monitoring) in our home!

Arriving Back Home

We didn’t get back home until late at night and after traveling for 10 hours or so we were exhausted. This is another one of our favorite parts about having a real, truly automated home: it senses our arrival and takes care of all of the conveniences. First, since it was night time it turns on our outside lights and our main floor lights. Second, it unlocks the door and disarms the security system. Last, it turns the water back on and, as previously mentioned, it already has adjusted the climate controls so the home is comfortable for us. It is truly a luxury (to us now, a necessity) to be able to just grab our bags and walk into the house with a well-lit path. No fumbling for keys in the dark, turning on lights with arms full of bags, etc.

I’ve said it before and will say it again, why isn’t this level of function and convenience more common in homes in 2024? We have smart phones, watches, cars, but most homes are not that different than they were in 2020!

What didn’t work as planned?

OK, so the system is always improving, and I will be completely honest here about what didn’t work as well as I’d hoped. Now, again, being completely transparent the system was 10x better than when we first started in home automation and went on vacation 7+ years ago. The system has really matured and evolved via real-life usage and experience since then.

Issue 1: Indoor motion detection

The system is set to automatically arm the security alarm in away mode whenever no one is home. In that mode all motion, door/window, presence sensors are set to trigger the alarm. Well, I hadn’t anticipated our cat being so active and triggering the motion sensor and got an unexpected security alarm triggered notification. After checking the cameras and motion history I deduced that the cat was the issue and disarmed the alarm. While we were away on the trip, I also had to temporarily remove the offending motion sensor from the alarm triggers as I knew this would be a repeating situation. Once returning home I repositioned the motion sensor so that the cat would be much less likely to trigger it the next time we were away but it still worked as expected for human presence (e.g. automated lighting). Unfortunately, some of these tweaks are needed with home automation systems to get optimal results.

Issue 2: Presence simulation

As this is a newer feature in the EffortlessHome solution I used this trip as an opportunity to monitor how well the solution worked. The good news is that it worked pretty well. In the evening the family room lights and kitchen lights would turn on as normal and around the time we typically go to bed it would turn those off and turn on the bedroom lights. However, I noticed it wasn’t randomizing it enough and it really looked like they were on a timer which (I assume) those skilled in home break-ins are not tricked by any more. I tweaked the AI-based algorithms to use a larger historical timescale and observed the changes. I am now happy with this and believe it is accurate enough. The second thing I realized is that this solution is pretty wasteful of energy as it is lighting our empty home for (at least) several hours for 10 days. As energy savings and efficiency is one of the core tenants of EffortlessHome’s value proposition, I decided to add the ability to set the lighting to reduced levels (via built-in dimming capabilities) to provide a knob to turn to allow balancing the security value with the energy savings value as the homeowner sees fit.

Summary

So this has been an assessment of what went well and what could have been better with our own home automation solution during our 10 days in Europe this summer. Of course, the EffortlessHome packages have since been upgraded to improve the functionality in the areas where opportunities were seen. Do you have any questions or suggestions, we’re always looking to enhance the system. If so, please add a comment below or reach out to us!

If you are interested in this level of convenience, security, and capabilities for your own home, please do check out the EffortlessHome Smart Home Premium solution or any of our other EffortlessHome Solutions. We have products in many different ranges with focuses on specific needs.

For as long as I have been involved with home automation (7+ years) I have used pretty much every available option to build links between the big 3 smart assistant platforms (Homekit, Alexa, Google Assistant) and my smart home. Unfortunately, while the available approaches “worked” (to various degrees), there were always trade-offs. The main one being a lot of manual effort to set up and maintain. For example, all 3 of those required separate manual steps to install link and configure. Then you had to go through the process of assigning the devices to show/hide and their names, then you had to set them up in the mobile app of each ecosystem. Now, most homes probably don’t use all 3 of those like we do, but we’re in the business and also home automation technology fans…

Thank you to the developers of these Home Assistant integrations and installations, they do work very well and have served the community for a long time, I don’t want to miss that message at all here. Homekit & Google Assistant& Alexa

But I want to share and report that the fairly new project Matterbridge has solved the major issues for our smart home. In fact, this direction is going to be our recommendation going forward for our customers as well. Major shout out to the creators of Matterbridge and the Home Assistant Plugin and HASSIO Addon!

This article will go over the steps to install and configure the system, how it works, the pros and cons, and our experience with it in real life daily usage. It will also cover some of the bugs, tweaks and the existing gaps in the ecosystem.

Our Home Setup

As mentioned above, our home setup includes most everything, we have Apple Homekit (Siri) devices, Google Assistant smart speakers and displays, Amazon Alexa devices, and now Home Assistant Assist devices too!. We are of course in the home automation business and need to ensure our solutions work well with everything in real life. I’d imagine, most homes just have one or two of those ecosystems, but still, Matterbridge makes it so much easier. Plus, with Matter poised to become the next generation of smart home technology, it is really great to plug the current world into the new world and have everything work together so seamlessly and easily!

Introducing Matterbridge

OK, so I hope that I’ve sparked your interest! Let’s dig into what Matterbridge is and how it works. From the Matterbridge Github: “Matterbridge is a matter.js plugin manager. It allows you to have all your Matter devices up and running in a couple of minutes without having to deal with the pairing process of each single device…. It creates a device to pair in any ecosystem like Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or any other ecosystem supporting Matter like Home Assistant. You don’t need a hub or a dedicated new machine.” Sounds pretty good, right?!?!

Install Process 

The installation process is easy for anyone familiar with Home Assistant Add-ons and/or Docker. I have done this setup on both Home Assistant OS and Supervised Home Assistant in Docker. Works well in either setup. Just install the add-on and then configure the domains to include and exclude in the sync to Matterbridge. The ability to specify patterns with a wild card is really nice as it gets really annoying to have lots of internal devices and automations showing in my smart assistant device.

https://github.com/t0bst4r/matterbridge-home-assistant

https://github.com/t0bst4r/matterbridge-home-assistant-addon

Adding Mobile Devices

With it installed the next step is to pair to your smart home system ecosystem. To do that click on the “Open Web UI” option in the Home Assistant Add-on and then click the + button to add a device and then scan the QR code from your smart home app of choice (Alexa, HomeKit, Google). After scanning it will pair and then add your devices.

Once you have it paired you can easily add the other ecosystems. The way I have done that is in HomeKit go to Settings > Home Hubs and Bridges, then choose the Matterbridge device and click “Turn on Pairing Mode”. With that enabled go to Alexa and/or Google Home App(s) and click + to add a device and pick Matter. Instead of scanning the QR code choose enter the code manually. When prompted type in the pairing code from HomeKit. It will most likely prompt you that the device is not approved, but it is OK to proceed as you know the source is from Matterbridge in your home automation system.

Once you complete the pairing process your home devices will be available in the apps as shown below and also in your Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home devices as well to use your voice and/or touch screens.

Amazon Alexa

Google Home

Apple Homekit

Using Matterbridge

I’ve been using Matterbridge for a few weeks now and have found it to be excellent. Since it is all working locally (as far as I can tell) it runs fast. Faster than any other integration I have used, commands are nearly instantaneous. When I add new devices Alexa and Google are telling me about them literally 2 seconds later. Responsiveness from voice and the mobile apps is quite good. The only delays I see is in resync of the devices from time to time, but it doesn’t seem to impact the usage (at least not yet).

Issues I’ve Seen

1. I had an issue with Google pairing on IOS and had to implement a workaround.
2. Camera, Security Alarm and some other domains are not yet available.
3. Many domains only have simple options available (e.g. on/off). They do the job but you don’t get all the bells and whistles.
4. There may be a workaround for this one, I haven’t researched yet, but I get a resync on restart of Home Assistant sometimes. Alexa and Google start announcing new devices which aren’t really new. They don’t get duplicated or anything but it is a bit annoying.

Summary

Well, so far Matterbridge has been a winner. I will keep using it and update this article, but anticipate more good things to come. The community for the plugin is strong and active, let’s hope they keep the good stuff coming including adding the missing domains. Thank you to the creators of Matterbridge and the HA Addon. This solution is a big asset to the community and with Matter emerging as a common standard in the industry, having this connection in place between the ecosystems is fantastic.

Have you tried Matterbridge or have any questions or feedback? Let us know in the comments.

Introducing Effortless(2nd)Home

Looking to improve your second home convenience and security while saving money and time? Our comprehensive second home automation solution can do just that!
Effortless(2nd)Home

Insurance discounts

Most insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner’s insurance for properties with monitored security systems [2]. These discounts can range from 5% to 20%, depending on the provider and the specific features of your system [2]. With a monitored system that includes features like 24/7 surveillance and fire alarms, you’re giving them a reason to trust your home’s security, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars a year!

Prevent major problems

Water leaks are a homeowner’s nightmare. Smart water leak sensors can detect even small leaks before they cause major damage [1]. A burst pipe could cost thousands of dollars in repairs, whereas a sensor that triggers early intervention can save you a fortune [3]. The same goes for fire and carbon monoxide leaks. Early detection from smart systems can prevent a devastating event.

Reduce false alarms and fines

Traditional security systems can be prone to false alarms triggered by pets or even strong winds. Smart systems with motion detectors and camera verification can significantly reduce these false alarms [1]. Many cities have fines associated with repeated false alarms, so a smarter system can keep your wallet happy in that regard too!

Energy bill efficiency

Smart thermostats that integrate with your home automation system can learn your routines and adjust the temperature automatically [1]. No more coming home to a house that’s been blasting the AC all day while you were gone. These systems can optimize your energy use, potentially leading to significant savings on your utility bills [4].

Peace of mind, 24/7

Water leaks can cause massive damage in a short amount of time. Smart water leak sensors can detect leaks early, so you can shut off the water remotely and prevent a catastrophe [1]. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for safety, but what if they go off when you’re away? A smart system can send alerts to your phone, so you can call emergency services no matter where you are [1].

Security that sees and hears

Smart security cameras let you see exactly what’s happening, from anywhere with an internet connection. Cameras are a good crime deterrent, as 60 percent of most burglars will choose another target if they find alarms or cameras, according to a recent study [5].

Improve Your Renter Experience

Give them the keycode electronically, welcome them with a message and a link to control the home and play media on all of the displays in the home. Give your guests a luxurious, advanced experience!

Convenience at your fingertips

Wouldn’t it be great to never have to worry about forgetting to turn off the lights or lock the door? With our home automation system, you can control everything from your phone or voice. Imagine walking in after work and the lights come on automatically. Or, setting your thermostat to adjust the temperature before you even get home [1]!

Managed Centrally

Sick of paying smart device and media companies every month? An EffortlessHome is offline capable so you can remove those subscriptions but not the features you depend upon. Are you tired of having a myriad of smart home applications, none of which work together? An EffortlessHome is managed from one application and all of your smart devices can be integrated.

Summary

Investing in a home automation system with a full security suite might seem like an upfront cost, but the long-term savings on insurance, repairs, and energy bills can add up quickly. Plus, you gain the priceless benefit of peace of mind knowing your home is secure and protected. It’s a win-win situation! Sources: [1] Benefits of a smart home security system [2] Discounts for home security systems [3] Cost of water damage repairs [4] Savings from smart thermostats [5] Do security cameras deter or prevent crime?

Our Vision of the Future AI-Powered Smart Home

Imagine a home that anticipates your needs before you even express them. A living space that seamlessly integrates with your life, optimizing comfort, security, and efficiency. This isn’t science fiction; it’s the future of AI-powered smart homes.

Beyond Automation: Proactive Intelligence

Today’s smart homes offer automation – lights that turn on at dusk, thermostats that adjust to your preferences. But AI takes it a step further. Imagine an AI system that learns your routines and preferences. In the morning, the scent of coffee greets you as the AI preheats the brewer based on your usual wake-up time. The bathroom mirror displays personalized news and weather updates while adjusting the lighting based on the time of day.

Hyper-Personalization: A Home that Knows You

AI will personalize your smart home experience. Facial recognition security systems won’t just deter intruders; they’ll adjust lighting and temperature upon recognizing you. Imagine after a long day, stepping into a home that automatically sets the mood lighting, plays your favorite calming music, and adjusts the thermostat to your preferred relaxation temperature.

Enhanced Security: A Guardian on Watch 

AI-powered security goes beyond cameras and alerts. Imagine a system that can identify unusual activity patterns, differentiate between familiar faces and strangers, and even predict potential security threats. This proactive approach to security will provide unparalleled peace of mind.

Energy Optimization: Efficiency at its Finest

AI will revolutionize energy management. By analyzing usage patterns, the AI can optimize appliance use, adjust lighting and temperature based on occupancy, and even predict peak energy consumption periods to help you save on costs.

A Symbiotic Relationship: Human and AI

The future of smart homes isn’t about replacing human interaction; it’s about enhancing it. AI will become a helpful companion, learning your preferences and subtly suggesting ways to improve your comfort and well-being. Imagine an AI that reminds you to stock up on groceries when supplies run low or suggests a movie based on your past viewing habits.

The Future is Now: Stepping into the AI-Powered Home

While some aspects of this vision might seem futuristic, the building blocks are already in place. AI assistants, smart appliances, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices are laying the groundwork for these intelligent homes. As AI technology continues to evolve, our vision of a seamlessly integrated, intuitive, and proactive smart home will soon become a reality.

Home Assistant is the perfect solution

EffortlessHome’s foundational technology, Home Assistant, is the perfect solution to prepare for this (most likely) inevitable future of the smart home. First, it already runs fully locally, second, it already has all of the smart home’s sensor and device data all stored in a centralized, optimized database. This solution is primed for this future vision where your home anticipates your needs and meets them without you having to ask.

Challenges

Of course, there are some challenges today to getting this future state in place. However, technology will continue to evolve and improve and we believe these challenges will be resolved over time. AI and LLM’s are evolving rapidly at the same time hardware continues to improve with more performance at lower prices.

1. AI and LLM’s require a lot of computing power to train and to provide recommendations. Home automation systems run on relatively low-powered devices which would struggle to compute at the pace expected.
   
2. AI today has too many hallucinations to run homes reliably (but the technology is improving rapidly). Trust would be lost quickly until this is more reliable.
   
3. There may be some concerns about an AI having this level of knowledge and home control. AI is still in its infancy and there will be a lack of trust. There is precedents with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant in many homes today, however.
   
4. Homeowners probably would not want to share this level of personal home data with the cloud (But this is all the more reason to run a local, private home automation system)

Summary

We’re excited about the future prospects of AI in the smart home. EffortlessHome is building to prepare our customers for this future where the AI-controlled home learns and adapts for unrivaled comfort, convenience, security, and energy savings.

What are smart plugs?

Smart plugs are adapters that sit between your appliance and the wall outlet. They connect to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control them remotely using a smartphone app or even voice commands with virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. This means you can:

• Turn devices on or off from anywhere
• Set schedules and timers for lights and appliances
• Create routines to control multiple devices with a single command

Breathe new life into your old appliances with smart plugs!

These handy devices add remote control and scheduling functionality to even the most basic lamps, fans, and coffee makers. But power monitoring smart plugs take things a step further, letting you track your appliance’s energy use and potentially saving you money on your electricity bill.

Why add power monitoring?

While basic smart plugs offer convenience, power monitoring smart plugs add a layer of efficiency. By tracking the energy consumption of your appliances, you can:

• Identify energy guzzlers: See which devices are silently draining your wallet on standby power.
• Automate power usage: Set schedules to power down electronics when not in use.
• Track trends: Monitor your overall home energy use and identify areas for improvement.

Make Your Washing Machine Smart With Power Monitoring Smart Plugs and Home Assistant

Ever forget your laundry is done and leave it sitting in the washer for hours? Wish you could get a notification when your washing machine cycle is complete? With a power-monitoring smart plug and Home Assistant, you can transform your ordinary washer into a smart appliance!

What You’ll Need:

A smart plug with power monitoring capabilities. We recommend our power monitoring plug
Home Assistant: An open-source home automation platform you can install on a computer or specific hardware. We recommend our Home Assistant Green and SkyConnect base system

Getting Started:

Install your smart plug: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the smart plug to your Wi-Fi network and plug your washing machine into it.

Set up Home Assistant: Download and install Home Assistant on your chosen platform. The process can vary depending on your setup, but the Home Assistant website offers comprehensive guides. Integrate the smart plug: Home Assistant supports a wide range of smart plugs. Follow the instructions for your specific model to integrate it with Home Assistant.

Making it Smart:

Here’s the magic part! Home Assistant monitors the power consumption reported by your smart plug. By analyzing these fluctuations, you can determine the washing machine’s cycle stages:Wash cycle starts: A surge in power indicates the wash cycle has begun.
Wash cycle ends: A significant drop in power consumption signals the end of the cycle.

This is an example of the automation in Home Assistant, don’t worry, EffortlessHome provides a template and can help with the configuration to make this easy. 

Taking it Further:

With this information, Home Assistant can automate tasks and send notifications:Notifications: Get an alert on your phone or a smart speaker when your washing machine finishes its cycle.
Automations: Set up automatic reminders or turn on lights in your laundry room when the cycle is complete.

Embrace the Smart Laundry Life:

With a smart plug, Home Assistant, and a little ingenuity, you can transform your washing machine into a smart appliance. No more forgotten laundry – Home Assistant will keep you informed and your clothes fresh!

Make Your Dishwasher Smart With Power Monitoring Smart Plugs and Home Assistant

Ever wished your dishwasher could tell you when it’s finished cleaning? With a power-monitoring smart plug and Home Assistant, you can turn your not-so-smart dishwasher into a conveniently connected appliance. The steps and devices required are the same as the Smart Washing Maching steps above.

Benefits of a Smart Dishwasher:

Notifications: Receive alerts when your dishes are clean and ready to unload.
Remote Monitoring: Check on your dishwasher’s status from anywhere.
Energy Tracking: Monitor your dishwasher’s energy consumption over time.

This is an example of the automation in Home Assistant, don’t worry, EffortlessHome provides a template and can help with the configuration to make this easy. 

With a little effort, you can transform your ordinary dishwasher into a smart appliance, adding convenience and a touch of automation to your home.

2024: The Year the Smart Home Gets Smarter (and Greener)

The smart home revolution is no longer a futuristic fantasy. In 2024, it’s a reality for many, and the future looks even more exciting. This year’s trends focus on creating a seamless, personalized living experience that prioritizes convenience, security, and sustainability.

1. Sustainable Smarts: Eco-conscious consumers are driving innovation. Smart water management systems that detect leaks and optimize irrigation are gaining traction. Look for smart appliances that boast energy efficiency and allow for remote monitoring of power consumption.

2. Security Gets Savvy: Security remains a top concern. AI-powered security systems will be on the rise, offering features like facial recognition and anomaly detection. Smart locks with biometric authentication and cameras with real-time activity monitoring will provide peace of mind.

3. Voice & Beyond: Voice assistants are getting smarter, understanding natural language and responding to complex requests. But gesture control is emerging as a new way to interact with your smart home. Imagine dimming the lights with a wave of your hand!

4. A.I. Assists Your Life: Artificial intelligence is taking center stage. Smart refrigerators will suggest recipes based on your dietary needs and groceries on hand. Imagine a washing machine that personalizes wash cycles based on fabric type and soil level.

5. Wellness at Home: Smart homes are becoming proactive partners in our well-being. Smart mirrors can track vitals and offer personalized fitness advice. Sleep monitoring systems will analyze your sleep patterns and suggest adjustments for a better night’s rest.

6. A Symphony of Devices: Seamless connectivity is key. Imagine a scenario where your smart coffee maker starts brewing as your smart alarm wakes you up, and the lights gradually brighten to mimic a sunrise. Interoperability between different brands and ecosystems will be crucial for a truly connected home.

The Future is Now:** The smart home of 2024 is all about creating a comfortable, secure, and personalized living environment. As technology continues to evolve, so will our homes, offering a future filled with unimaginable convenience and an unwavering focus on well-being.

We’ve had a smart home for many years and continue to optimize it. It has truly changed our lives and simplified so many areas. These are some of the automations which we use regularly. 

Goodnight Automation

This one is truly a favorite. Each night (if we are home) we don’t have to worry about locking doors, arming the security alarm, turning off lights, adjusting heating and cooling, etc. All we have to do is say “Goodnight” to one of our smart speaker devices and all of that is done for us by our smart home. Or, if we forget to do that, it does it automatically at the scheduled time. Not only that, it will pause and save our spot in what we were watching on TV AND it turns on our bedroom lights and hallway lights so we can make our way safely and easily. After 10 minutes when we are usually in bed ready to sleep the lights all turn off automatically, but we can always just ask the Google Assistant device in our room to do that earlier if desired.

Arrive Home

Our smart home is integrated with all of our family mobile phones and automobiles. It knows if anyone is at home by the location of those devices as well as all of the other motion and occupancy sensors in the house. The latter is key because it covers scenarios where we have guests or house sitters and we want our automations to still work properly. So, if we are arriving home our smart home automatically does all the things we need to make our lives easier and more streamlined. The outside lights turn up (or on) (if after sunset/before sunrise), the security alarm is disabled, the garage door opens specific to each car, the inside lights turn on as well.

Leave Home

This home automation is basically the opposite of Arrive Home. If the last person leaves then our smart home automatically locks the door locks, arms the security alarm, turns off any interior lights or TV’s which were on, and closes the garage doors. It is SO NICE to just leave and not worry about these things. It also gives peace of mind and saves time and energy!

Good Morning

We manage our alarm clock in our calendar. It is so much better than using a dedicated device or even a phone for this purpose! We set a schedule and then ignore holidays or days off, etc. Not only that, our alarms gently turn on the lights in the room as a sunrise effect (if before sunrise) and plays an audible wake up message on the smart speaker. We can even do a snooze function. When we get up we don’t have to wander around in the dark, the lights are on (at the level we prefer) so everything is much easier.

Home Security and Monitoring

We have many smart cameras at our home. These allow us to monitor our home while away and deter potential crime. We don’t like to pay monthly fees to the camera companies and we also don’t like a disjointed experience. So our home automation camera system is not dependent on any Cloud service, it runs locally. We have automations set up for motion detection on each camera which then uses AI to do person detection. Although not perfect, this drastically reduces false alarms and excessive notifications. In other words, if our system sends our phones a notification its very likely because a person is at the door. We also use the latest Generative AI technology to evaluate the captured image of the person on the property and send a short description e.g. “A man in a brown jacket holding a package is walking to your front door”.

In addition to cameras our EffortlessHome has door and window sensors hooked to a security alarm, water sensors in strategic locations which will notify and turn off the water supply on triggering. Also, our smoke detectors and CO2 dectectors are smart and notify us of any alarms no matter where we are in the world.

Summary

Well, that’s it for this article. I hope you can also see the value of this type of system and it inspires you to learn more and explore these exciting technologies or reach out to us here at EffortlessHome.

Why Disconnect to Get Smart? Exploring the Benefits of an Offline Home Automation System

For many, the term “smart home” conjures images of voice-controlled assistants and smartphone apps. But what if there was another way? An approach that prioritizes privacy, reliability, and even affordability? Enter the offline home automation system, a setup that breaks free from the internet and offers a surprising range of benefits.

Privacy Powerhouse: In an age of constant data collection, offline systems keep your home data under your roof. No more worries about cloud breaches or targeted advertising based on your lighting preferences. You control your information.

Rock-Solid Reliability: Internet outages? No problem. With an offline system, your pre-programmed automations like scheduled lighting or temperature control keep running smoothly, unaffected by internet hiccups.

Simple Setup, Sweet Savings: Offline systems often require less complex setups compared to their internet-dependent counterparts. This can translate to lower upfront costs and potentially avoid monthly subscription fees associated with cloud-based platforms.

Future-Proofed Functionality: Ever feel nervous about a smart home device being discontinued or rendered useless by a software update? Offline systems sidestep this issue. Programmed routines keep working as intended, regardless of a manufacturer’s decisions.

Beyond the Basics: While offering a clear break from the cloud, offline systems aren’t stuck in the dark ages. A range of devices, from smart thermostats to motion-sensor lighting, can function perfectly well without an internet connection.

A Niche with Nuance: While enticing, offline systems aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Remote control and complex automation features often rely on internet connectivity. For those seeking a more basic, yet dependable, smart home experience, offline systems offer a compelling alternative.

The Bottom Line: For those seeking privacy, reliability, and potentially lower costs, offline home automation offers a unique path to a smarter home. By understanding your needs and priorities, you can create a system that functions seamlessly, on its own terms.

Smart Homes: Saving Energy and Time, One Automation at a Time

Our lives are busy. Between work, errands, and social commitments, squeezing in time for relaxation can feel like a luxury. Thankfully, smart home technology is here to help. By automating everyday tasks and optimizing energy use, smart homes offer a double win: saving you precious time and reducing your environmental impact.

Let’s dive into how smart homes become energy ninjas:

Climate Champions: Smart thermostats learn your routines and adjust heating and cooling automatically. No more blasting the AC when no one’s home or forgetting to turn down the heat before bed. These clever devices can translate to significant energy savings, lowering your utility bills and your carbon footprint.

Lighting Legends: Smart lights go beyond simple on/off switches. Program them to adjust brightness throughout the day, mimicking natural light. Motion sensors can ensure lights illuminate only when a room is occupied, eliminating wasteful energy use. Imagine never leaving a light on by accident again!

Appliance Aces: Smart appliances can be programmed to run during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. This is especially helpful for energy-hungry devices like dishwashers or washing machines. Plus, some smart appliances can even monitor their own energy usage, giving you valuable insights into where you can further optimize.

But smart homes aren’t just about saving energy; they’re about saving you time too. Here’s how:

Automated Assistants: Smart routines can be set up to handle repetitive tasks. Imagine arriving home to a house that’s already unlocked, the lights are on, and your favorite playlist is playing. Smart speakers can also control thermostats and appliances with simple voice commands, freeing your hands for more important things.

Remote Rule: Forgot to turn off the lights or adjust the thermostat before leaving? No worries! Smart home apps allow you to control your home remotely, ensuring peace of mind and eliminating unnecessary trips back home.

Safety and Security: Smart locks and security systems offer real-time monitoring and control, allowing you to keep an eye on your home even when you’re away. Smart cameras can send alerts if motion is detected, deterring potential break-ins and giving you peace of mind.

The Smart Choice: By combining energy savings with time-saving convenience, smart home technology offers a compelling proposition. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative ways to make our homes smarter, more efficient, and perfectly in sync with our lifestyles. So, are you ready to join the smart home revolution?

Smart Home Security Advantages: Fortifying Your Castle with Automation and Connectivity

Traditionally, home security systems offered a layer of protection, but often lacked the finesse and ease of use we’ve come to expect from modern technology. Enter smart home security systems, a connected security solution that merges automation with traditional security measures. Let’s delve into the key advantages that make smart home security systems a compelling option for homeowners.

Unparalleled Remote Monitoring and Control: Gone are the days of worrying about forgetting to arm the system. Smart home security systems allow you to monitor your home remotely through a smartphone app. This means you can check live camera feeds, view sensor activity, and even lock or unlock doors – all from virtually anywhere in the world.

Enhanced Awareness with Real-Time Alerts: Smart security systems go beyond simply sounding an alarm when a breach occurs. These systems can provide real-time alerts, notifying you of specific events like motion detection, door or window openings, or even smoke or water leaks. This allows for faster response times and the potential to deter criminal activity before it escalates.

A Web of Integrated Devices: Smart home security systems are the hub of a connected security ecosystem. They can integrate with various smart home devices, like smart lights or thermostats. Imagine having lights automatically turn on when motion is detected near an entry point, creating the illusion of someone being home even when you’re away.

Customization for Specific Needs: Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all systems, smart home security allows for a personalized approach. You can customize specific zones within your home to be armed or disarmed at different times. This allows you to create a security plan that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle.

Simplified Installation and User Experience: Smart home security systems are designed to be user-friendly. Many systems offer self-installation options, with intuitive app interfaces for controlling and monitoring your system. This eliminates the need for complex wiring or reliance on professional installation services.

Potential Cost Savings: Smart home security systems can lead to cost savings on your homeowner’s insurance. Many insurance companies offer discounts for implementing these systems. Additionally, the ability to remotely monitor your home can potentially help identify and prevent issues like water leaks before they cause significant damage.

Looking Ahead: As smart home technology continues to evolve, smart security systems will become even more sophisticated. Integration with artificial intelligence and advanced video analytics are just a few areas poised for significant advancements. This will further enhance security measures and provide homeowners with even greater peace of mind.

The Verdict: Smart home security systems offer a compelling blend of convenience, customization, and robust security features. By leveraging automation and connectivity, these systems empower homeowners to take control of their home security and create a safer, smarter living environment.

Here at EffortlessHome we live and breath technology including home automation. We’re always pushing the envelope and looking for ways to streamline our lives and home to make both more convenient and “effortless”. In this article I will share some of the ideas we are working on to take things to the next level in our own home.

More Motion Lighting

One of our favorite automations lately has been the one to turn on the lights (if it is dark outside) when we enter a room. That same function automatically turns off the lights if no motion is detected for a period of time. It seems obvious now, but this is such a luxury and safety feature. We are planning to add this capability to more areas of our home. Finding and turning on light switches in the dark is so annoying and inconvenient!

More Wall Panels

It may sound strange, but sometimes we don’t feel like pulling out (or have) our phones and don’t want to talk to the smart assistant devices for whatever reason. Another common scenario in our smart home is when we have guests and they need a way to more easily control our home. In these scenarios (and more) having wall panels installed in strategic locations is a handy feature. We have a Sonoff NSPanel now in our kitchen and love it. Of course, we have chosen this device because we are fans of local, open-source supported devices. This one runs ESPHome and is incredibly customizable. The community for the device is actively innovating and expanding the capabilities. But, we can already control all of the smart devices in our home, control media players, and see the status of sensors and devices easily with this wall panel. I will be installing at least one of these on each floor of our home.

Open Source Smart Assistants With Modern AI

We are Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant users here at EffortlessHome. We use them constantly to control our home, get information and play multimedia. However, they aren’t perfect and there are many reports of privacy issues and long-term support for these devices. Fortunately, the Home Automation community is innovating in this space and it is now possible to replace these devices with open source alternatives. At the same time, the Generative AI and Large Language Model (LLM) technology has seen tremendous leaps. These new devices use that new AI technology and consequently far exceed the first gen AI device capabilities. They also are not dependent on the Cloud or a vendor who may stop supporting so they won’t go obsolete.

Summary

Thanks for reading this article on our next focus areas here at our EffortlessHome Smart Home. These areas any many others which are emerging in this constantly evolving space are on our radar and we are excited to adopt them.

Don’t Get Zapped by Convenience: Common Home Automation Mistakes to Avoid

At EffortlessHome we have many years of experience in home automation. With that experience has come some hard lessons on what works and what doesn’t work. In this article I will share some of that wisdom to help others starting out avoid making those same mistakes as they learn the ropes of home automation technologies and techniques.

The allure of a smart home is undeniable. Imagine lights that adjust to your mood, a thermostat that tailors the temperature to your preferences, and appliances that seamlessly integrate into your daily routine. But the path to a truly smart home can be riddled with unexpected pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your smart home experience is smooth sailing.

Falling for the Incompatibility Trap: The smart home market boasts a dizzying array of devices, each promising a unique solution. But what good is a smart bulb if it doesn’t work with your smart speaker? Ensure compatibility by choosing devices that operate on the same platform or protocol, like Zigbee or Z-Wave. Research and plan your ecosystem before swiping that credit card.

Neglecting Network Nightmare: Your smart home is only as smart as your Wi-Fi. A weak or overloaded network can lead to frustrating lags, unresponsive devices, and a less-than-stellar smart home experience. Invest in a robust router with good range, and consider a mesh network for larger homes to ensure all your devices have a strong connection.

Security Slipshod: Convenience shouldn’t come at the cost of security. Always change default usernames and passwords on your smart home devices. Enable two-factor authentication when available, and consider investing in a firewall to further protect your network from potential breaches. Remember, a hacker gaining access to your smart lock is a recipe for disaster.

Overcomplicating Chaos: While automation is a key benefit, starting with an overly complex setup can lead to frustration. Begin with a few core devices and routines, like smart lights or a connected thermostat. As you gain comfort and confidence, gradually introduce new functionalities. A well-orchestrated smart home is an evolution, not a revolution.

Ignoring Updates: Just like your smartphone, smart home devices require software updates to function optimally and address security vulnerabilities. Set your devices to update automatically, or schedule regular checks to ensure you’re always running the latest firmware.

The Bottom Line: By planning strategically, prioritizing security, and taking a measured approach, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a smart home that truly enhances your life. Remember, a smart home should be convenient, not complicated. With a little planning, you can steer clear of these mistakes and unlock the full potential of smart home living.