I don’t need super advanced features like motion sensors. I just want to dim lights, change colors, use remote switches, and control them with an app on multiple phones. Also, with Christmas around the corner, I want to switch to time-controlled power outlets instead of the manual ones I currently use. I don’t want to use voice commands or deal with speaker systems. I’ve had issues with a neighbor’s remote interfering with my lights, so I need a reliable setup. I don’t have a smart speaker, Google streamer, Alexa, or any hub except my router. I have a Raspberry Pi 3b that’s not being used. I tried setting up Google Home because we have Chromecast devices, but it didn’t work well with my kids’ family link accounts, so I gave up. I have an AVM Fritz router and six thermostats that work fine, but their associated costs are high. I’m considering Ikea’s Dirigera as a more budget-friendly option, though it lacks thermostat integration. I’d like a system that can eventually integrate lighting and heating with schedules and sensors. I started looking into Ikea, then discovered Matter, Home Assistant, and Zigbee, but I’m feeling overwhelmed. I need guidance.
A Home Assistant setup could be a good choice because you won’t be locked into one ecosystem. You can mix and match devices from different brands like Zwave and Zigbee.
Carter said:
A Home Assistant setup could be a good choice because you won’t be locked into one ecosystem. You can mix and match devices from different brands like Zwave and Zigbee.
I use a mix of Hue, Tradfri, and Sengled bulbs and devices at home. They all work well together.
Carter said:
A Home Assistant setup could be a good choice because you won’t be locked into one ecosystem. You can mix and match devices from different brands like Zwave and Zigbee.
I thought I would still need a separate hub for Zigbee or Thread devices, even with Home Assistant.
@YukiJane
You will need to add the appropriate radio dongles to your Home Assistant setup, whether you build it yourself on a Pi or buy a pre-built hub. Considering your current needs, Home Assistant might be more complex than you need. Simpler hubs like SmartThings or Hubitat could be better as they offer out-of-the-box Zigbee and Zwave integration. They might be simpler for just managing remote-controlled devices.
@YukiJane
It does seem like more than I need, but since I already have a Raspberry Pi, it’s not too big of an investment to try out.
@JamesSven
I set up my Raspberry Pi and surprisingly, my thermostats worked with it right away. I also found a Matter-compatible outlet I bought by accident last year. I’ll explore more tomorrow.
@JamesSven
I’ll add different repositories after I set up the outlet. I also want to integrate a recipe manager I liked but hit the free version limit. Seems like I’ll be joining the Home Assistant community soon.
JamesSven said:
@YukiJane
Check out r/selfhosted for recommendations on recipe managers. Grocy integrates well with Home Assistant and can send shopping lists to your phone based on location.
That’s great, but please stop, I have kids and not enough time!
@YukiJane
Looks like I’m getting started on a new project!
Carter said:
A Home Assistant setup could be a good choice because you won’t be locked into one ecosystem. You can mix and match devices from different brands like Zwave and Zigbee.
That’s right, you’ll need the dongles regardless.
Check out Tasmota for switches and bulbs, which you can link without a hub using device groups. It offers a scheduler and customizable actions for button presses. You might still want to consider setting up Home Assistant on your Raspberry Pi 3.
Insteon might be worth a look. It works with standard LED bulbs and offers a wide range of devices, including various smart switches. It’s a dual-band system known for its speed and reliability. You can set it up simply or use a hub for more complex setups. The Insteon Hub allows control via an app and supports Alexa. It’s versatile enough for both basic and advanced users.