Yep, that would work! Just have to get around the fact that it would also trigger every time the door is open/closed... or find some clever way to automate and take that into account.
@@ShaneCreates you could use a DW contact and have it only trigger the alert when the door sensor stays closed but the vibration sensor triggers. Maybe you could also trigger the doorbell to record when it detects a vibration as well to calibrate the sensitivity of the vibration sensor.
The Brad Lloyd RUclips channel had a great automation on his pantry door. It has glass panels and he installed an LED light strip behind the door. Depending on the time of day, it would show different colors. He also changes the background color for different holidays. When the door is opened, the lights turn white. When the door closes, it goes back to the colored lights. Super cool automation. Makes me wish I had glass panels in my pantry cabinets.
We live out in the country and have to use critter traps in various places. It’s a tedious chore to have to go around every morning and check all the traps, but things get nasty if micky or minnie has been caught and I don’t notice for a couple of days. Enter Aqara motion sensors. I’ve attached one to each of the traps and get alerted whenever one of the them has been tripped.
I got some Aqara stuff. The sensors are really cheap that you can put them everywhere. I did have a problem with the vibration/titlt sensor. It stopped triggering until I pulled the battery and put it back in. That was about 6 weeks of operation. Has been fine ever since. Vibration/tilt is a really useful sensor.
Just wanted to share on the section relating to your fridge, I've setup a cheap Onvis bluetooth contact sensor positioned perfectly (which took a while) such that if either the fridge or freezer door are even slightly ajar for 3 minutes it turns on a light in our house (which we rarely use but can be seen from pretty much throughout the house) which lets us know the fridge/freezer has been left open. And closing the fridge turns it off 😊 for those interested, I achieved this using a convert to Shortcut automation which simply runs when the contact sensor is opened and it's just a 1s "wait" action within a "repeat" 180 times which also contains an "if" action that checks if the sensor is now closed and if so "stops this shortcut". Then at the end (if it gets there) after the 180 repeats, it turns then light on.
Highly recommend that everyone close their bedroom doors overnight. If there is a fire, the smoke could incapacitate. you before the smoke detector wakes you up.
Fantastic automation ideas Shane! I use the vibration sensor for the washing machine, but will definitely check out some of these other ones. Gotta love those Aqara sensors!
Great video, thank you! But i have a question. :) I'm just getting to know Homekit, but I immediately ran into a problem. I had the idea to make the washing machine smarter with an Aqara smart plug and a vibration sensor, but it didn't work out. The problem arises from the fact that the washing machine performs its work in several phases, so the current consumption falls below a minimum value several times. I thought that I would check when it was done in combination with the motion sensor, but it only detects when it is spinning. And he does this at least 2x or 3x during the process. The best thing would be if I could check in a process that if the current consumption fell below a certain value and this value did not change for, say, 2 minutes, then indicate that it is over. But I can't solve this. My question is, is it even possible?
try to start the 5 minutes timer every time the power consumption goes below the threshold. and reset this timer, when power consumption goes high again. so if the power consumption go low and the timer is done, you get a notification. if power consumption goes high again, the timer will reset and it will wait again, for power to go low
There are a few, mostly built into other devices. A few cameras have them built in and exposed to homekit. The Phillips hue outdoor motion sensor, I believe, also includes a light sensor.
Awesome channel. Question: Is there a way to get notifications on your iphone when the Aqara sensor detects no motion? It only seems to let you play sounds on your home pods or change the lights but I don’t see the option on ifttt or in the aqara or home kit app. Also for whatever reason my aqara hub or vibration sensor don’t show up in alexa even though the skill is linked. Any advice?
Honestly I'm not completely sure. You might be able to pair the sensors directly to the echo and get some functionality, but to get the full functionality of the sensors, you'll need to get the Aqara Hub.
Great vid! 👍 I use the Ring Mailbox sensor exposed to HomeKit through HomeBridge. Pros: it has an antenna for long range. Cons: needs 3 AAA batteries every couple of months. I wish they made a little solar panel for it to stick on the mailbox post! Hope you’re listening ring! Made an automation flash one of my lights too when the mail comes.
If you're feeling adventurous, you could get a Ring or other solar panel. It's just set up to deliver 5v to charge the batteries just like a USB charger but at lower current. 3 AA battery is basically 4.5v so you could put three recharchable batteries in there and run a lead from the solar panel to the batteries wired in series. Any time the solar panel voltage output is greater than the battery voltage, it will charge.
Curious if you had any advice? I have an aqara m1s, aqara smart plug, Apple 4k (gen1) and controller for homekit app trying to use current power as a trigger for washer completed notification. I don’t get current power as an option to choose from in the controller app. Only power state (on or off) and outlet in use (yes or no) but no option to choose power state. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Something weird…my kids HomePods will stop showing up on our iPad hub that we mounted on the wall?? That every happen to you? Or room names seem to revert to other names that they used to be?
Hey Chris. No I haven't noticed that happening to me. First thing I'd ask is if your iPad is running the latest iPad OS. Regarding the room names, it seems like some sort of sync issue. Do you use any other apps, like maybe the Phillips hue app, that could be overriding your room names in the Home app? Another suggestion (may or may not help) is to always setup new HK devices using the same iOS device. I've just found that to be better for avoiding weird issues like this. Maybe someone else here has experienced similar issues and will have some suggestions.
Hey Chris. The stuff you’re describing can be a challenge to troubleshoot, as multiple factors can cause those things to occur. Based on the limited info, the first steps I’d take would be: - make sure your iOS/iPadOS devices are all on the same band of your WiFi Network - make sure that all of your HomePods have been configured/setup using the same iOS device so they’re all on the same band. - verify that permissions for Home Family Members are properly assigned within Home App Setting on the Head Of Household iOS device * also remember that some Home functionality & configuration is dependent upon iCloud communication. So, in some cases, it takes a bit of time for the Family Devices to ‘see’ changes to the Home. I’m sure Shane will also toss some suggestions, but those are things I’d begin with.
Hi Chris, You are not alone! I originally purchased two HomePod mini’s for my living room and paired them up for stereo with relative ease… sweet! I was hooked and immediately ordered three more for my kitchen, office, and bedroom. And that’s when things started going whack! … After much frustration, I was just about to return all five mini’s when I got hold of a very knowledgeable and helpful Apple Support Advisor (Tier 3). Here are just a few of our observations during a full week of rigorous testing: • The Kitchen HomePod mini did not like it’s wall-mount AT ALL (cup-holder type). Whenever I stood in front of it, the WiFi signal would drop. I removed the mini from said wall-mount and placed it on a table in very close proximity to the original location. It now maintains its connection. • The Handoff feature is cute but is very buggy, and for now, it’s not worth using. IMHO. I subsequently turned it OFF in order to take it out of the equation. • I have experienced very long WiFi lags and/or dreaded “No Response” errors within the Home app. (very fast internet). The app would often show several mini’s Playing when in reality, it should have only shown one. This usually clears by simply closing out of and reopening the Home app. • Weird things begin to occur when tapping on speaker selections in AirPlay menus. • Siri responses are too GAT DAMN LOUD! Apple really needs to address this issue! • I’m usually not a big fan of talking to myself, but Siri seems to be getting better at listening these days! Bottom line: I’m holding onto my five “minions” in hopes for serious iOS, iPadOS and macOS updates which are rumored to be on the near horizon. A separate HomePod app would be most welcome. HTH.
Hello Shane I’m new to your channel just starting to get my Aqara devices Isaí in this video that you were able to make Siri say you got mail, can you also make her say anything I will like to create a reminder for every Tuesday & Friday at 5:50am and make her say this is a reminder take out the trash can you help me with this pls
I had my dryer on a vibrartion/temp sensor. When the temp dropped and no vibration for 5 minutes, I got an alert they were done. Washer was old school, put a magnet on the dial to line up with a door sensor at the end of the cycle. I was pretty proud of myself for that. My new set has its own app to tell me, but sadly no homekit integration!
Thank you for this video explaining how you are using sensors to trigger automation. Now that I am your newest subscriber my first project will be setting up the box fan in one of your previous videos. Can you do a review of the new M2 hub when it becomes available. Thanks.
Thanks! Yea I did a review of Abode Iota Security System a while back. I knew they had glass break sensors, but I didn't realize they were exposed to homekit. Thanks for sharing!
I know I’ve mentioned this on some of your previous videos, and it’s (maybe?) too target-specific… Your advice on using Power Consumption as a trigger to run an Automation/Scene is an awesome way for people to monitor their Sump Pump. As many folks don’t find out that their Sump Pump Motor has failed until it’s ‘too late’…I have found that using Power Consumption to be a really good way to be reminded that everything is operating as it should. I’ve gone a bit overboard with my setup, and created a Dummy Lock in HomeBridge that changes status (from lock to unlock and then resets itself) when power is being used by the pump so I get a Push Notification. It’s a good reminder that ‘everything works’, and I know that I haven’t had an equipment failure.
Thanks Ed. I'm not totally sure tbh. You might be able to connect the sensors directly to the echo, but you won't get the full functionality of the sensors unless you use the hub.
@@ShaneCreates Hey Shane, thanks for your response. Nope, the Aqaba temp sensor doesn’t seem to connect just using the Echo 4 Zigbee hub so I’ve gone ahead and ordered the Aqaba Hub. I was hoping to avoid buying too many devices that doesn’t support Thread, but I suppose we’re still some time away before wide adaptation…😑
Shane, think the Aqara Wireless Remote Switches will ever make it stateside. They look like they have so much potential but so far the only way to get them is ordering from China.
Another Hub 😒 sorry that’s a deal breaker for me. I’m already replacing my hue lights with nanoleaf little by little so that I can eventually get rid of the hue bridge. Unfortunately nanoleaf doesn’t have all the different bulbs I need, so it’ll be a while. And also, if these sensors don’t have thread, it’s just not worth it for me. I’d rather pay more for Eve, although they don’t have motion sensors with thread…yet. But I don’t need to have another Hub with Eve.
Your videos are terrific, been watching since you were sitting with your stairs in the background. Can you use more than one M1S hubs for doorbell chimes?
Hey Shane. I was able to watch this video all the way through without stopping due to no background music while you’re talking. Yes!! Love it! And such great information. Thank you!
- hi Shane, Abdul From Dublin, I like your videos and you have inspired me to now annoy the kids and the wife with my automations 😅 Pls is below possible? [ ] If Windows are open and it going to rain - [ ] Siri notifies Boys to close windows before going to school - [ ] If Windows are open and it cold - [ ] Siri notifies Boys to close windows
That'll be tough using Siri, but I think it's possible. You can use a recording of Siri, like I showed in this video. You'll just need something to trigger the automation. Maybe a certain time of day. Then "get the weather" and run an IF statement that says IF it's going to rain, play that recording on the HomePods.
I would typically use a contact sensor unless there is a good reason to use a vibration sensor, or if the contact sensor wouldn't work there for some reason.
Fun stuff! I just recently made an automation for my washing machine because too often we forget about the wet clothes and then have to wash again because of the funk that sets in. I’m using the vibration sensor for this, with a custom HomePod announcement and a light indicator. Amazing idea on the power consumption because the vibration sensor can have false alarms.
Haha I've been there too! I love the indicator light and the homepod announcement! The good thing about the power consumption vs the vibration sensor for the washer is that often the washer will stop (to rinse or whatever) at different times in the cycle, which may give you those false alarms. By using power consumption, you can make sure the load is complete because the power will never drop too low during a cycle, until it's done. I probably should have emphasized that more in the video. Anyways, thanks for watching!
Thanks for the excellent video. I like your mailbox idea but do you think the Aqara vibration sensors could handle a 90 foot range? I already have an Aqara hub and several switches....
That's probably pushing the limits of that zigbee connection. I wouldn't count on it being reliable that far. Which switches to you have? If I recall correctly, the wall switches with neutral wire can actually act as zigbee repeaters for the Aqara products. Maybe that would help? Thanks for watching!
For my deaf dad, I would like to purchase a simple smart doorbell that will signal all rooms to flash when someone rings the doorbell. This doorbell does not need to be videorecording. Can you recommend a smart doorbell? Thanks.
If using HomeKit, any smart HomeKit button should do the trick. You'll just need to be conscious of the environment... for example most aren't rated for outdoors. I used the Aqara mini switch for a long time (we have a covered front porch). As seen in the video, if he has a doorbell chime, you can probably attach a vibration sensor to the chime box and set up automations every time vibration is detected also.
Not really sure the exact numbers, as there are lots of factors that can affect that (assuming you are talking range of the sensor to the hub). I was having a little trouble connecting my mailbox sensor to a hub that was on my second floor. So I connected the sensor to a hub closer to my front door, on the first floor, and it worked much more reliably. My door is probably 30 ft, give or take, from my mailbox.
I just have a vibration sensor on the Nutella tied to alarm 😁🚨 Would like to do it as an automation, but don't know how to stop it as an automation sound. Maybe as 2 automations, one to start and one delayed to stop would work.. 🤔
If you create the automation in the Aqara app to play the alarm sound when vibration is detected, you can add other action after that. So try to add a “delay” action after the alarm sounds, then add another action to turn OFF the alarm sound after the delay.
So far my only trigger based automation is to turn on the car porch light at night when I open the front door while I also set an auto off timer in the aqara app to off that light after 10 minutes. I tried to make a smart mailbox using the aqara motion sensor but it’s pretty much a miss and rarely picks up the mail motion. I can’t use the vibration sensor as my mailbox in built into the concrete gate so it’s solid and will not vibrate. My other automations are time based on time and location like turn on front gate lights from sunset to sunrise, and turn on certain lights at night when I’m not home. Homekit is still missing certain triggers such as temperature and lux, and can’t trigger video recording based on sensors. Hope to see this added soon.
Thanks for sharing! Maybe you can use a contact sensor for that mailbox? Also, you can create temperature and light based automations for homekit using 3rd party apps like the Eve app, Home+, or Controller. So it is possible in HomeKit, just not in the Home app. I agree, would love to be able to trigger video to record via automations. Hopefully the features and capabilities will continue to improve.
Another great video with lots of good ideas. Keep up the great work. I’ve been using Aqara sensors for quite some time. A couple things that I do is I have a contact sensor on the closet doors that will turn the closet lights on when the doors open and turns the light off when the doors closed. I also have a motion sensor in the bathroom that turns the light on when Motion is detected and it turns the light off after 10 minutes. On my temperature and humidity sensor in the bathroom, I turn the exhaust fan on only if the humidity gets above a certain percentage. I have a contact sensor on the shower door and when it’s opened it turns my wife’s hair curlers on for 10 minutes. That way when she gets out of the shower and dries her hair her curlers are ready to go. Her curlers do not have an on off button. I am using a ConnectSense in-wall plug to turn the curlers on and off. You can also use a motion sensor on your porches and turn the porch light on at night when it detects motion.
Hey Shane! Need some advice… Could you help me identify a HomeKit Indoor Camera that gets activated on Audio with a 2 way Audio System. I am looking for a camera that can be used as a baby monitor. Wanting the camera to get triggered if the baby wakes up, cries etc. :)
Hey Joshua. I don’t think cameras can be triggered by sound when recording to iCloud (HomeKit Secure Video). Some might be able to in their native app. I’d look at the Arlo Baby monitor. I think that one can detect sound. And it supports HomeKit, just not HSV. It’s the only one that I know of sold specifically as a baby monitor.
Thanks David. Sure, let me know which kind of automation you'd like to see. I've done a number of automation tutorials in the past that can be found in this playlist here: ruclips.net/p/PLSyPtAY5VFr3fBwGMdvvVyRHuBllOfX9k
Shane, have you used the m2 long? Is it worth ordering now? Or just waiting for the US version. Does anyone know if you can turn off the status light on the aqara plug? (It’s too bright for our bedroom) Perhaps in the mi home app?
I don't recall seeing the option to turn off the status light on the Aqara plug. I doubt you'd be able to do it in the Mi Home app if you can't in the Aqara app. I don't use the Mi Home app anymore for my Aqara accessories. Since the Aqara app has improved so much, I can do everything I need to do with the Aqara app. Regarding the M2 hub: personally, I'd wait. But that's just my preference. I always prefer to use Aqara accessories that are made for my region.
@@ShaneCreates Good to know about the Mi app. I had been thinking of trying it out. Thanks for the input in the M2 as well. I had commented before on a HomePod mini video asking how Siri responded. If it was better than other Apple products. You guys were absolutely right. Siri works so much better on a HomePod. Thanks so much Shane!
Awesome video Shane, I know you played with the Abode Security System and the majority of their sensors are now exposed in HomeKit. The new firmware has been awesome and really solid. I have the smoke sensor and glass break sensor in HomeKit. I know the Abode water sensors are also exposed as well. The only Abode product not exposed in HomeKit is the Panic button and their outdoor cameras. Hopefully soon they will get those in HomeKit.
Thanks for sharing! Yea I do have Abode too (but no glass break or smoke sensor). I didn't realize that their glass break sensor was exposed to HomeKit now. Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching!
Grazie shane per i tuoi video inerenti al mondò homekit…li guardo sempre con piacere …peccato che tra la tua lingua (inglese) e la mia (italiano) a volte faccio fatica a capirli…ma meglio che niente 😉👋
@@ShaneCreates that’s the thing, they worked with the old gateway that was not HomeKit supported, I wonder if I buy a new HomeKit gateway would it still work as they are all the same brand
Hehe nice! I know there are so many things possible with automations, but somehow I lack the inspiration to do cool things with it. Thanks for helping me/us with that.
Hey Shane. Loving the videos man. I recently set up my own HomeKit smart home and couldn’t be loving it more. One question that I still have is this: now that I have all these complex automations going around the house, what happens when I have to swap out a bad bulb? Is there an easy way to replace an existing bulb for example and still keep the existing automations running with the new bulb? Thanks in advance!
Thank you! I appreciate the support. Good question. First, I think it's not something to worry too much about as most of these smart bulbs should last for many years. You shouldn't have to replace them often like regular bulbs. With that said, I think the only thing you can do is to update the automation manually. I do know that if you have an automation, let's say with multiple accessories/lights, if you do delete one of them from homekit, the automation will still work with the rest. So in your scenario, just delete the old bulb from HomeKit, then after you've added the new one, I'd go in an simply edit the automation and add the new bulb.
@@ShaneCreates Thanks for the reply mate! I hope Apple (or even third party devs) could add support for simply swapping out elements in your automation. Would be really cool!
Hey Shane! I live in a 220v-country and recently I bought some Aqara wall switches. In the box they said 120v input. I reached the seller and he told me to use them anyway, that they were actually rated up to 240v as well as the Aqara smart plugs. He sells for Aqara here in Chile, and their products are coming from the United States. Maybe you can give it a try with the Aqara smart plug. Greetings.
Thanks for sharing Camilo. Our 240v outlet is actually a different prong configuration than the 120v. So the smart plug wouldn't be able to plug in to those.
@@ShaneCreates I appreciate that. I was using controller as well but it seems the vendor characteristics don’t show up for me. Not sure if Aqara disabled them or something changed with iOS 15
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Holy smoke. You just gave me an idea. Vibration sensor on front door for when delivery drivers etc don’t ring but just knock!
Yep, that would work! Just have to get around the fact that it would also trigger every time the door is open/closed... or find some clever way to automate and take that into account.
@@ShaneCreates you could use a DW contact and have it only trigger the alert when the door sensor stays closed but the vibration sensor triggers. Maybe you could also trigger the doorbell to record when it detects a vibration as well to calibrate the sensitivity of the vibration sensor.
My delivery drivers don't even knock. They just put the package, take a picture and leave.
The Brad Lloyd RUclips channel had a great automation on his pantry door. It has glass panels and he installed an LED light strip behind the door. Depending on the time of day, it would show different colors. He also changes the background color for different holidays. When the door is opened, the lights turn white. When the door closes, it goes back to the colored lights. Super cool automation. Makes me wish I had glass panels in my pantry cabinets.
Haha yea I'm jealous of @thebradlloyd 's pantry doors too!
One could do this with under-cabinet lights. : )
We live out in the country and have to use critter traps in various places. It’s a tedious chore to have to go around every morning and check all the traps, but things get nasty if micky or minnie has been caught and I don’t notice for a couple of days. Enter Aqara motion sensors. I’ve attached one to each of the traps and get alerted whenever one of the them has been tripped.
Wow, that may be the best use case I've heard of yet for these! I love it. That's brilliant! Great idea, and thanks for sharing!
Tons of fun ways to automate! BTW: Abode's Acoustic Glass Break Sensor is exposed to HomeKit as a motion sensor.
Oh Thanks Eric! I knew about Abode's Glass break sensor but didn't think it was exposed to HomeKit. Thanks for clarifying!
Great! This actually “sparks” many personal ideas. Thanks for your videos. My homes is smarter thanks to you 😉
Great! That is ultimately my goal for videos like this. Thanks for watching!
I got some Aqara stuff. The sensors are really cheap that you can put them everywhere.
I did have a problem with the vibration/titlt sensor. It stopped triggering until I pulled the battery and put it back in. That was about 6 weeks of operation. Has been fine ever since. Vibration/tilt is a really useful sensor.
I’m hesitant now to buy anything that doesn’t have Thread support
Yep. Having to deal with another hub is just such ancient tech for me. No thread is a deal breaker for me now.
Nice job, Shane. I share your excitement for sensors - so many uses. Especially love the "knocking" automation with a vibration sensor, great idea!
Thanks Brad!
Just wanted to share on the section relating to your fridge, I've setup a cheap Onvis bluetooth contact sensor positioned perfectly (which took a while) such that if either the fridge or freezer door are even slightly ajar for 3 minutes it turns on a light in our house (which we rarely use but can be seen from pretty much throughout the house) which lets us know the fridge/freezer has been left open. And closing the fridge turns it off 😊 for those interested, I achieved this using a convert to Shortcut automation which simply runs when the contact sensor is opened and it's just a 1s "wait" action within a "repeat" 180 times which also contains an "if" action that checks if the sensor is now closed and if so "stops this shortcut". Then at the end (if it gets there) after the 180 repeats, it turns then light on.
Highly recommend that everyone close their bedroom doors overnight. If there is a fire, the smoke could incapacitate. you before the smoke detector wakes you up.
Fantastic automation ideas Shane! I use the vibration sensor for the washing machine, but will definitely check out some of these other ones. Gotta love those Aqara sensors!
Thanks for watching Dustin!
Great video, thank you! But i have a question. :)
I'm just getting to know Homekit, but I immediately ran into a problem.
I had the idea to make the washing machine smarter with an Aqara smart plug and a vibration sensor, but it didn't work out.
The problem arises from the fact that the washing machine performs its work in several phases, so the current consumption falls below a minimum value several times. I thought that I would check when it was done in combination with the motion sensor, but it only detects when it is spinning. And he does this at least 2x or 3x during the process.
The best thing would be if I could check in a process that if the current consumption fell below a certain value and this value did not change for, say, 2 minutes, then indicate that it is over. But I can't solve this. My question is, is it even possible?
try to start the 5 minutes timer every time the power consumption goes below the threshold. and reset this timer, when power consumption goes high again. so if the power consumption go low and the timer is done, you get a notification. if power consumption goes high again, the timer will reset and it will wait again, for power to go low
For the washing machine don't have it for power consumed, have it set for when power drop below 1w which would indicate that it is done
This is amazing, thanks
Brilliant video Shane! Love automations! They are one of the best functions to a smart home set up for sure. Like the Secret switch idea! 👌🏼
Thanks Tom!
always love your tips bro, thanks a bunch
Hey thanks for watching!
Hey Shane, do you know of any light sensor that is exposed to HomeKit?
There are a few, mostly built into other devices. A few cameras have them built in and exposed to homekit. The Phillips hue outdoor motion sensor, I believe, also includes a light sensor.
Awesome channel. Question: Is there a way to get notifications on your iphone when the Aqara sensor detects no motion? It only seems to let you play sounds on your home pods or change the lights but I don’t see the option on ifttt or in the aqara or home kit app. Also for whatever reason my aqara hub or vibration sensor don’t show up in alexa even though the skill is linked. Any advice?
Thanks for watching Ricky. Yes, you can setup an automation in the Aqara app to send a push notification if no motion is detected.
Shane, do you have to use their Aqara hub or would those devices work with the new Amazon Echo which now supports Zigbee?
Honestly I'm not completely sure. You might be able to pair the sensors directly to the echo and get some functionality, but to get the full functionality of the sensors, you'll need to get the Aqara Hub.
Great vid! 👍 I use the Ring Mailbox sensor exposed to HomeKit through HomeBridge. Pros: it has an antenna for long range. Cons: needs 3 AAA batteries every couple of months. I wish they made a little solar panel for it to stick on the mailbox post! Hope you’re listening ring! Made an automation flash one of my lights too when the mail comes.
Nice!!
If you're feeling adventurous, you could get a Ring or other solar panel. It's just set up to deliver 5v to charge the batteries just like a USB charger but at lower current. 3 AA battery is basically 4.5v so you could put three recharchable batteries in there and run a lead from the solar panel to the batteries wired in series. Any time the solar panel voltage output is greater than the battery voltage, it will charge.
Curious if you had any advice? I have an aqara m1s, aqara smart plug, Apple 4k (gen1) and controller for homekit app trying to use current power as a trigger for washer completed notification. I don’t get current power as an option to choose from in the controller app. Only power state (on or off) and outlet in use (yes or no) but no option to choose power state. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Something weird…my kids HomePods will stop showing up on our iPad hub that we mounted on the wall?? That every happen to you? Or room names seem to revert to other names that they used to be?
Hey Chris. No I haven't noticed that happening to me. First thing I'd ask is if your iPad is running the latest iPad OS. Regarding the room names, it seems like some sort of sync issue. Do you use any other apps, like maybe the Phillips hue app, that could be overriding your room names in the Home app?
Another suggestion (may or may not help) is to always setup new HK devices using the same iOS device. I've just found that to be better for avoiding weird issues like this.
Maybe someone else here has experienced similar issues and will have some suggestions.
Hey Chris. The stuff you’re describing can be a challenge to troubleshoot, as multiple factors can cause those things to occur.
Based on the limited info, the first steps I’d take would be:
- make sure your iOS/iPadOS devices are all on the same band of your WiFi Network
- make sure that all of your HomePods have been configured/setup using the same iOS device so they’re all on the same band.
- verify that permissions for Home Family Members are properly assigned within Home App Setting on the Head Of Household iOS device
* also remember that some Home functionality & configuration is dependent upon iCloud communication. So, in some cases, it takes a bit of time for the Family Devices to ‘see’ changes to the Home.
I’m sure Shane will also toss some suggestions, but those are things I’d begin with.
Hi Chris, You are not alone! I originally purchased two HomePod mini’s for my living room and paired them up for stereo with relative ease… sweet! I was hooked and immediately ordered three more for my kitchen, office, and bedroom. And that’s when things started going whack! … After much frustration, I was just about to return all five mini’s when I got hold of a very knowledgeable and helpful Apple Support Advisor (Tier 3). Here are just a few of our observations during a full week of rigorous testing:
• The Kitchen HomePod mini did not like it’s wall-mount AT ALL (cup-holder type). Whenever I stood in front of it, the WiFi signal would drop. I removed the mini from said wall-mount and placed it on a table in very close proximity to the original location. It now maintains its connection.
• The Handoff feature is cute but is very buggy, and for now, it’s not worth using. IMHO. I subsequently turned it OFF in order to take it out of the equation.
• I have experienced very long WiFi lags and/or dreaded “No Response” errors within the Home app. (very fast internet). The app would often show several mini’s Playing when in reality, it should have only shown one. This usually clears by simply closing out of and reopening the Home app.
• Weird things begin to occur when tapping on speaker selections in AirPlay menus.
• Siri responses are too GAT DAMN LOUD! Apple really needs to address this issue!
• I’m usually not a big fan of talking to myself, but Siri seems to be getting better at listening these days!
Bottom line: I’m holding onto my five “minions” in hopes for serious iOS, iPadOS and macOS updates which are rumored to be on the near horizon. A separate HomePod app would be most welcome.
HTH.
Hello Shane I’m new to your channel just starting to get my Aqara devices Isaí in this video that you were able to make Siri say you got mail, can you also make her say anything I will like to create a reminder for every Tuesday & Friday at 5:50am and make her say this is a reminder take out the trash can you help me with this pls
I had my dryer on a vibrartion/temp sensor. When the temp dropped and no vibration for 5 minutes, I got an alert they were done. Washer was old school, put a magnet on the dial to line up with a door sensor at the end of the cycle. I was pretty proud of myself for that. My new set has its own app to tell me, but sadly no homekit integration!
Wow. This dude has the damn sensors plastered EVERYWHERE in the house. Kinda stupid imo
To get notifications when the washer/dryer finish you could utilize iOS shortcuts to be triggered by a HomeKit sensor
Hey Shane. What song did you use in Apple Music for the mail alert
You should do a motion in the bathroom that turns on the fan if someone sits on the toilet longer than 30 seconds. Lol. Could be cool
Thank you for this video explaining how you are using sensors to trigger automation. Now that I am your newest subscriber my first project will be setting up the box fan in one of your previous videos. Can you do a review of the new M2 hub when it becomes available. Thanks.
Sure thing! I'll do a video on that once it's available. Thanks for subscribing!
Try the abode vibration glass break sensor it’s HomeKit enabled. Supposedly. Did you do a review of abode?
Thanks! Yea I did a review of Abode Iota Security System a while back. I knew they had glass break sensors, but I didn't realize they were exposed to homekit. Thanks for sharing!
@@ShaneCreates oh. Gotta go check your review!! Thanks!
@@ShaneCreates ugh ok looks like the abode glass break sensor is not exposed to HomeKit.
What do you use for your blinds?
The ones shown in the video are the Soma Tilt 2 (retrofit existing blinds). I'm planning on a dedicated video for that in the near future.
The aqara temp sensor automation doesn’t work in either home+ or eve
I bought a Aqara hub and sensor and I could not get it to work on a 2G 5G Network is there any way to make it work
I have used mine on a combined 5/2.4 GHz network. It should be able to work.
I know I’ve mentioned this on some of your previous videos, and it’s (maybe?) too target-specific…
Your advice on using Power Consumption as a trigger to run an Automation/Scene is an awesome way for people to monitor their Sump Pump.
As many folks don’t find out that their Sump Pump Motor has failed until it’s ‘too late’…I have found that using Power Consumption to be a really good way to be reminded that everything is operating as it should.
I’ve gone a bit overboard with my setup, and created a Dummy Lock in HomeBridge that changes status (from lock to unlock and then resets itself) when power is being used by the pump so I get a Push Notification.
It’s a good reminder that ‘everything works’, and I know that I haven’t had an equipment failure.
What a great way to utilize smart home tech! Thanks for sharing!!
Great video!! Do I still need their hub if u have the Zigbee hub in my Amazon Echo 4? Thanks
Thanks Ed. I'm not totally sure tbh. You might be able to connect the sensors directly to the echo, but you won't get the full functionality of the sensors unless you use the hub.
@@ShaneCreates Hey Shane, thanks for your response. Nope, the Aqaba temp sensor doesn’t seem to connect just using the Echo 4 Zigbee hub so I’ve gone ahead and ordered the Aqaba Hub. I was hoping to avoid buying too many devices that doesn’t support Thread, but I suppose we’re still some time away before wide adaptation…😑
I think the real star of the show is the vibration sensor, might have to pick up a couple of those...
Yea, they are so versatile. Thanks for watching Howard!
Can the Aqara vibration sensor be used to tell when the dryer is done?
Shane, think the Aqara Wireless Remote Switches will ever make it stateside. They look like they have so much potential but so far the only way to get them is ordering from China.
I doubt it... if I had to guess. You can get the Wireless mini switch in the US tho.
Another Hub 😒 sorry that’s a deal breaker for me. I’m already replacing my hue lights with nanoleaf little by little so that I can eventually get rid of the hue bridge. Unfortunately nanoleaf doesn’t have all the different bulbs I need, so it’ll be a while. And also, if these sensors don’t have thread, it’s just not worth it for me. I’d rather pay more for Eve, although they don’t have motion sensors with thread…yet. But I don’t need to have another Hub with Eve.
This is just an infomercial
Your videos are terrific, been watching since you were sitting with your stairs in the background. Can you use more than one M1S hubs for doorbell chimes?
Hey Shane. I was able to watch this video all the way through without stopping due to no background music while you’re talking. Yes!! Love it! And such great information. Thank you!
- hi Shane, Abdul From Dublin, I like your videos and you have inspired me to now annoy the kids and the wife with my automations 😅
Pls is below possible?
[ ] If Windows are open and it going to rain
- [ ] Siri notifies Boys to close windows before going to school
- [ ] If Windows are open and it cold
- [ ] Siri notifies Boys to close windows
That'll be tough using Siri, but I think it's possible. You can use a recording of Siri, like I showed in this video. You'll just need something to trigger the automation. Maybe a certain time of day. Then "get the weather" and run an IF statement that says IF it's going to rain, play that recording on the HomePods.
Looks cool Shane!
Thanks Jerry!
Which one do you think is better to use at the doors? Vibration sensors or contact sensors?
I would typically use a contact sensor unless there is a good reason to use a vibration sensor, or if the contact sensor wouldn't work there for some reason.
M2 hub review please
Fun stuff! I just recently made an automation for my washing machine because too often we forget about the wet clothes and then have to wash again because of the funk that sets in. I’m using the vibration sensor for this, with a custom HomePod announcement and a light indicator. Amazing idea on the power consumption because the vibration sensor can have false alarms.
Haha I've been there too! I love the indicator light and the homepod announcement! The good thing about the power consumption vs the vibration sensor for the washer is that often the washer will stop (to rinse or whatever) at different times in the cycle, which may give you those false alarms. By using power consumption, you can make sure the load is complete because the power will never drop too low during a cycle, until it's done. I probably should have emphasized that more in the video. Anyways, thanks for watching!
@@ShaneCreates yep, exactly right on the washer stopping. I may try building some “wait” actions into a shortcut to cut those down.
Thanks for the excellent video. I like your mailbox idea but do you think the Aqara vibration sensors could handle a 90 foot range? I already have an Aqara hub and several switches....
That's probably pushing the limits of that zigbee connection. I wouldn't count on it being reliable that far. Which switches to you have? If I recall correctly, the wall switches with neutral wire can actually act as zigbee repeaters for the Aqara products. Maybe that would help?
Thanks for watching!
Great video!! Very interesting applications indeed.
Great video, amazing ideas. Very interested in the vibration sensors .
For my deaf dad, I would like to purchase a simple smart doorbell that will signal all rooms to flash when someone rings the doorbell. This doorbell does not need to be videorecording. Can you recommend a smart doorbell? Thanks.
If using HomeKit, any smart HomeKit button should do the trick. You'll just need to be conscious of the environment... for example most aren't rated for outdoors. I used the Aqara mini switch for a long time (we have a covered front porch). As seen in the video, if he has a doorbell chime, you can probably attach a vibration sensor to the chime box and set up automations every time vibration is detected also.
I like the Fonzie automation. Bump the jukebox and the music starts up. Ayye 👍🏼🤣
haha yes!! 👍 👍
I like your "smart-mailbox" project.
I also want to try this project.
What is the range (with walls) of the Aqara hub?
Not really sure the exact numbers, as there are lots of factors that can affect that (assuming you are talking range of the sensor to the hub). I was having a little trouble connecting my mailbox sensor to a hub that was on my second floor. So I connected the sensor to a hub closer to my front door, on the first floor, and it worked much more reliably. My door is probably 30 ft, give or take, from my mailbox.
Awesome content! Odd question, what band are you using on your watch? I love that color, is it leather? Thank you 😊
Thanks Noah! Yes, it's a brown leather Apple Watch band that my wife got me from Etsy a while back.
I just have a vibration sensor on the Nutella tied to alarm 😁🚨
Would like to do it as an automation, but don't know how to stop it as an automation sound. Maybe as 2 automations, one to start and one delayed to stop would work.. 🤔
If you create the automation in the Aqara app to play the alarm sound when vibration is detected, you can add other action after that. So try to add a “delay” action after the alarm sounds, then add another action to turn OFF the alarm sound after the delay.
So far my only trigger based automation is to turn on the car porch light at night when I open the front door while I also set an auto off timer in the aqara app to off that light after 10 minutes.
I tried to make a smart mailbox using the aqara motion sensor but it’s pretty much a miss and rarely picks up the mail motion. I can’t use the vibration sensor as my mailbox in built into the concrete gate so it’s solid and will not vibrate.
My other automations are time based on time and location like turn on front gate lights from sunset to sunrise, and turn on certain lights at night when I’m not home.
Homekit is still missing certain triggers such as temperature and lux, and can’t trigger video recording based on sensors. Hope to see this added soon.
Thanks for sharing! Maybe you can use a contact sensor for that mailbox?
Also, you can create temperature and light based automations for homekit using 3rd party apps like the Eve app, Home+, or Controller. So it is possible in HomeKit, just not in the Home app.
I agree, would love to be able to trigger video to record via automations. Hopefully the features and capabilities will continue to improve.
Another great video with lots of good ideas. Keep up the great work.
I’ve been using Aqara sensors for quite some time. A couple things that I do is I have a contact sensor on the closet doors that will turn the closet lights on when the doors open and turns the light off when the doors closed. I also have a motion sensor in the bathroom that turns the light on when Motion is detected and it turns the light off after 10 minutes. On my temperature and humidity sensor in the bathroom, I turn the exhaust fan on only if the humidity gets above a certain percentage. I have a contact sensor on the shower door and when it’s opened it turns my wife’s hair curlers on for 10 minutes. That way when she gets out of the shower and dries her hair her curlers are ready to go. Her curlers do not have an on off button. I am using a ConnectSense in-wall plug to turn the curlers on and off. You can also use a motion sensor on your porches and turn the porch light on at night when it detects motion.
Great automations! Thanks for sharing Frederick!
Less human input is more automation. Nice!
Hey Shane! Need some advice…
Could you help me identify a HomeKit Indoor Camera that gets activated on Audio with a 2 way Audio System.
I am looking for a camera that can be used as a baby monitor. Wanting the camera to get triggered if the baby wakes up, cries etc. :)
Hey Joshua. I don’t think cameras can be triggered by sound when recording to iCloud (HomeKit Secure Video). Some might be able to in their native app. I’d look at the Arlo Baby monitor. I think that one can detect sound. And it supports HomeKit, just not HSV. It’s the only one that I know of sold specifically as a baby monitor.
@@ShaneCreates ! Thanks
Great video, any chance you could do a video showing how to create one of these automations? Great work!
Thanks David. Sure, let me know which kind of automation you'd like to see. I've done a number of automation tutorials in the past that can be found in this playlist here: ruclips.net/p/PLSyPtAY5VFr3fBwGMdvvVyRHuBllOfX9k
I use your info all the time for my HomeKit set up! Keep up the good work Shane! Let’s get you to 50k!!!
Hey Luke, thanks so much for the support! 🙏
Shane, have you used the m2 long? Is it worth ordering now? Or just waiting for the US version.
Does anyone know if you can turn off the status light on the aqara plug? (It’s too bright for our bedroom) Perhaps in the mi home app?
I don't recall seeing the option to turn off the status light on the Aqara plug. I doubt you'd be able to do it in the Mi Home app if you can't in the Aqara app. I don't use the Mi Home app anymore for my Aqara accessories. Since the Aqara app has improved so much, I can do everything I need to do with the Aqara app.
Regarding the M2 hub: personally, I'd wait. But that's just my preference. I always prefer to use Aqara accessories that are made for my region.
@@ShaneCreates Good to know about the Mi app. I had been thinking of trying it out. Thanks for the input in the M2 as well.
I had commented before on a HomePod mini video asking how Siri responded. If it was better than other Apple products. You guys were absolutely right. Siri works so much better on a HomePod. Thanks so much Shane!
I just started using Aqara sensors. They are fast and the range is amazing.
Agreed!
What light bulbs do I need to work with apple shortcuts
Any lights that support HomeKit will work.
Awesome video Shane, I know you played with the Abode Security System and the majority of their sensors are now exposed in HomeKit. The new firmware has been awesome and really solid. I have the smoke sensor and glass break sensor in HomeKit. I know the Abode water sensors are also exposed as well. The only Abode product not exposed in HomeKit is the Panic button and their outdoor cameras. Hopefully soon they will get those in HomeKit.
Thanks for sharing! Yea I do have Abode too (but no glass break or smoke sensor). I didn't realize that their glass break sensor was exposed to HomeKit now. Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching!
Grazie shane per i tuoi video inerenti al mondò homekit…li guardo sempre con piacere …peccato che tra la tua lingua (inglese) e la mia (italiano) a volte faccio fatica a capirli…ma meglio che niente 😉👋
Thanks for watching!
Great video Shane! I’m proud to say I’ve got a contact sensor in my wardrobe so now I know if someone’s stealing my clothes 😂
Haha Nice!
I can think of actual use cases for this... Mom is borrowing daughter's clothes all the time and gets in trouble for it :P
Can I use these sensors with HomePod as a hub?
No, you need an Aqara Hub to connect these sensors.
i bought sensors about 6 years ago, will old ones work with the newer Homekit Hubs?
Which sensors? If they "work with homekit" then they should work still.
@@ShaneCreates that’s the thing, they worked with the old gateway that was not HomeKit supported, I wonder if I buy a new HomeKit gateway would it still work as they are all the same brand
Hehe nice! I know there are so many things possible with automations, but somehow I lack the inspiration to do cool things with it. Thanks for helping me/us with that.
Thanks for watching Tom!
@@ShaneCreates hey, why do you think I am a member? Not watching would be a waste of money. 😜
Hey Shane. Loving the videos man. I recently set up my own HomeKit smart home and couldn’t be loving it more. One question that I still have is this: now that I have all these complex automations going around the house, what happens when I have to swap out a bad bulb? Is there an easy way to replace an existing bulb for example and still keep the existing automations running with the new bulb? Thanks in advance!
Thank you! I appreciate the support. Good question. First, I think it's not something to worry too much about as most of these smart bulbs should last for many years. You shouldn't have to replace them often like regular bulbs.
With that said, I think the only thing you can do is to update the automation manually. I do know that if you have an automation, let's say with multiple accessories/lights, if you do delete one of them from homekit, the automation will still work with the rest. So in your scenario, just delete the old bulb from HomeKit, then after you've added the new one, I'd go in an simply edit the automation and add the new bulb.
@@ShaneCreates Thanks for the reply mate! I hope Apple (or even third party devs) could add support for simply swapping out elements in your automation. Would be really cool!
Hey Shane! I live in a 220v-country and recently I bought some Aqara wall switches. In the box they said 120v input. I reached the seller and he told me to use them anyway, that they were actually rated up to 240v as well as the Aqara smart plugs. He sells for Aqara here in Chile, and their products are coming from the United States. Maybe you can give it a try with the Aqara smart plug. Greetings.
Thanks for sharing Camilo. Our 240v outlet is actually a different prong configuration than the 120v. So the smart plug wouldn't be able to plug in to those.
@@ShaneCreates is it a two/three-rounded prong? If it is so the smart plug needs an EU plug adapter.
@@ShaneCreates or try to find a Latin American smart plug or EU smart plug on AliExpress
Excellent video, thank you
Thanks for watching!
How do you get the automation to read the power consumption? I can’t figure it out
I use a third party homekit app like Home+ or Controller for HomeKit
@@ShaneCreates I appreciate that. I was using controller as well but it seems the vendor characteristics don’t show up for me. Not sure if Aqara disabled them or something changed with iOS 15
What is the range on the Aqara hub?
Aqara support says about 32 feet (M1 hub) indoors with no more than two walls in between, and about 65 feet for M2 hub.
Love this video u have made! AQARA 😍
Thanks Melvin!
Good stuff as usual Shane.
Thanks Brad!
need that M2 review
It's coming soon!
Cleverrrr 😂😂❤️
Thanks!!