How can I add a smart device to automate this HVAC baffle handle that needs to move 90 degrees?

I’m looking for ideas from the community on the best way to add a smart device that can turn this handle by 90 degrees. I’m considering a linear actuator with some linkage bolted into the hole in the handle. Does anyone know of any hardware that could do this and connect to Zigbee?

You might want to look into an HVAC zone damper motor and control it with a Zigbee relay that can switch 24vac, bypassing a traditional zone controller.

@Seeker

Jerry said:
You might want to look into an HVAC zone damper motor and control it with a Zigbee relay that can switch 24vac, bypassing a traditional zone controller.

I’m actually looking for a generic actuator that can turn a handle 90 degrees. The use is for HVAC, but the need for manual control via Zigbee with my phone is the priority.

@Stewart
That solution should still be effective for what you’re looking to do.

AnalyticsAgora1 said:
Have you considered a water valve motor like this one shown here? https://youtu.be/O6VGT3dBcDw?si=jwjOP3oR3ng4yJzx

I’ve checked those out, but they seem too heavy-duty for this application. These HVAC valves are much easier to turn, so I’m searching for something lighter.

@Stewart
It might seem like overkill, but if it gets the job done efficiently and is easy to install, it could be worth considering. What’s the value of your time and effort?

@Stewart
There are affordable Zigbee options available, around $35 Canadian. It might be a straightforward solution to consider.

Vera said:
@Stewart
There are affordable Zigbee options available, around $35 Canadian. It might be a straightforward solution to consider.

Could you provide a link to one of these?

@Jayce
Sure, here’s one I found on Amazon: Jinvoo Zigbee Water Valve, Smart Control Water/Gas Valve, Automatic Ball Valve Watering Timer, Sprinkler Controller, Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Smart Life APP Control Jinvoo Zigbee Water Valve, Smart Control Water/Gas Valve, Automatic Ball Valve Watering Timer, Sprinkler Controller, Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant,Smart Life APP Control : Amazon.ca: Patio, Lawn & Garden

Vera said:
@Stewart
There are affordable Zigbee options available, around $35 Canadian. It might be a straightforward solution to consider.

We call those BeaverBucks up here!

I used a water valve actuator to zip tie the baffle on the side for a dual-zone climate setup. Simple and effective.

I’m also interested in this topic.

A smart switch combined with a 24vdc power supply could work. When the power is on, it opens. When power is removed, it closes. ZoningSupply.com - Zone Control - Power Open/Close Motor

I recently installed Honeywell M847D-ZONE motors during a remodel to add a second zone to our furnace.

Keira said:
I recently installed Honeywell M847D-ZONE motors during a remodel to add a second zone to our furnace.

That’s almost what I need, but my dampers don’t operate on a spring in either direction. It seems designed for a Honeywell thermostat, but it looks simple enough to connect to a Zigbee relay.

Zooz has a DC motor controller that might work for activating a linear actuator. AliExpress has some affordable options. I considered this for a wooden gate deadbolt project but needed weatherproofing.

@Jason
I’m using a similar setup with a worm gear motor to automate my crank windows. It should work here too, but you’d need a Z-Wave hub.

Consider using a stepper motor for precise control.