Wild Home Automation Update 03Feb18

The Nest is undergoing a home automation update. I already use a Logitech Harmony for the TV/audio/video system (with simple fast reconfiguration via the Internet); I already use a Nest thermostat to control temperature (and have access via Internet); I already use AccuLink to post my weather readings (and have access via Internet); I already use Arlo to monitor the Nest via motion-sensing video recording and alerts. Now I am extending those systems, adding new ones and integrating the lot. New temp/humidity sensors for the wine cooler and the wine cellar join the spa monitor under AccuLink. I get notifications if temps are too high or too low - we don't want Edgar's creations to spoil.

A dive on protocols indicated the open source Z-Wave Plus was the most secure and fastest wireless mesh network for sensors and controls (vs ZigBee, WiFi, etc.). And Samsung SmartThings Gen2 was the "best" hub. The hub is in/up and I bought GE Z-Wave plus lighting controls nearly exclusively (simple plugs were tested with Samsung ST plugins) - I replaced 3 dimmers, 4 switches (some of which are 2 way) and 1 integrated motion sensor/switch - all in/up. Thinking about a dance hall vibe for certain lights to add colors.

Sure I can control the lights now in scenes from my Logitech Harmony remote (yes - I integrated these systems), or my phone - Harmony Hub is the very best AV/Home controller/remote IMO. The only downside is no backlighting on the remote but that also saves tons of power - rare is a battery change. Yet, all this is not enough; what about if-then-else stuff?

I added some motion/light detection sensors to augment the lighting. Kala was bummed the prior system required five steps down the dark lower level stairs before illumination - now there's only one step! The keys were 1) location & sensitivity on motion detection to distinguish strolls passed it on the main level vs a true step toward the lower level - nailed it. And 2) a blazing speed of event posting of these EcoLink Z-Wave detectors... imagine a new system slower than "five steps down" - not happier users. This if-then-else app does require coding to integrated sensors and controllers but it's like Java (more later). I've built the same motion-lighting system for the stairs to the second level too. I'd prior attempted navigation there in the dark, perhaps with dulled senses, and this keen system will help.

I had to reconsider Ecolink motion detectors - they ultimately were not fast enough. I bought some Iris Gen2 motion detectors based on Zigbee and did a side-by-side test in the desired spots. The Iris MDs are much smaller and are faster to post motion events. They cost the same, $29. The only issue is that the adjustable sensitivity of the Ecolink allowed easier placement before getting false positives for stairway travel - still, a trade up IMO - and they report temperature too.

So what else? I have added Fibaro flood detectors (after I saw BK add $50K to his remodel build) - yep, they are Z-Wave too. The flood detectors have been modified by my own hand to use 12V DC from a wall warts as opposed to the stock battery drive. I did this in the spa with good success as I don't have ready access or desire to replace batteries where these have been installed: the kitchen (covering dishwasher & sink and hidden below the dishwasher), the water heater/radiant heating system, and in the washer/dryer area. They do temperature too which is just a backup to Nest, et. al. Sweet - I tested them but hope I NEVER hear from them again.

I guess I should consider a main water valve control for shut off in the event of a flood alert but that's work for another day. There are multiple integrations which make this stuff more useful... one is combining Logitech Harmony with Samsung SmartThings - I control the lights from my GR8Room remote now - and can add controlled window shades in the future. Another big integration completed today was one combining all this into Google Home Assistant/Mini. Yep I added a Wild Home Mini and have voice control over all this stuff.

I've done all the research for garage door automation but was freaked out by a number of reports of "phantom operation" - I think I'll skip that step for a while.