Creating smart home automations can seem like a straightforward task, but often falls short of its full potential. Many people focus on simple actions like “if motion then light” and wonder why their automation doesn’t work as expected.
The problem lies in the simplicity of these automations. They don’t consider the context or outcome you want to achieve. A smart home system like Alexa or Apple Home can only handle basic conditional logic, making more complex automations challenging.
However, by shifting your focus from actions to outcomes, you can create smart home automations that truly work for you. Start by identifying what you want to achieve in your home, and then build an automation around it.
One key ingredient missing from most automations is context. Consider factors like daylight levels, occupancy, and timing to create a more effective solution. Using sensors like occupancy detectors can help you achieve this.
While basic smart home ecosystems may struggle with complex automations, platforms like Home Assistant offer more flexibility and control. By leveraging multiple conditions and logic, you can create truly personalized and effective automations that make your smart home do the work for you.
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/biggest-smart-home-mistake-beginners-make