I built a custom garage opener using a simple relay, a power adapter, and a smart outlet. It’s been running flawlessly for years.
Kade said:
I built a custom garage opener using a simple relay, a power adapter, and a smart outlet. It’s been running flawlessly for years.
I’d love to hear more about your DIY garage opener!
@MysteryMaverick
It’s a straightforward setup where the relay mimics the garage button press. I use Hubitat as my hub and control the garage doors via virtual switches and Alexa routines.
Kade said:
I built a custom garage opener using a simple relay, a power adapter, and a smart outlet. It’s been running flawlessly for years.
Be careful with DIY solutions that don’t meet official codes. They might affect your insurance coverage in case of an incident.
Tired of yelling for my kids at mealtime, I set up a system in our home where pressing a button lights up indicators in their rooms and the kitchen. Each child has a color-coded response button, and when they press it, I know who’s ready to eat without any shouting.
@Stanley
The color-coded system is a clever touch. Nice work!
@Stanley
We use an old-school dinner bell. Simple but effective!
Lonnie said:
@Stanley
We use an old-school dinner bell. Simple but effective!
A bell is a great idea too, but with noise-cancelling headphones, the light system works better for us.
@Stanley
Sometimes, the old ways are best, but I see how your system fits your needs perfectly.
I created a system for my garage that uses a pneumatic closer with a magnet to hold the door open. If I forget, a motor pushes the door off the magnet, and after closing, it locks automatically. It was a fun and practical project made from parts I had around.
@Valerie
I love simple hacks like that! I did something similar with a door sensor on my garage to indicate when it’s open.
My bug zapper turns on automatically 30 minutes before sunset and announces, ‘Bugs are about to die,’ on our Google display. It’s always a conversation starter.
I’m using a GGreg20 Geiger Counter connected to my Home Assistant server via the ESPHome plugin to monitor ionizing radiation levels.
Luchivya said:
I’m using a GGreg20 Geiger Counter connected to my Home Assistant server via the ESPHome plugin to monitor ionizing radiation levels.
That’s quite unique! What’s the story behind needing a radiation detector at home?
Luchivya said:
I’m using a GGreg20 Geiger Counter connected to my Home Assistant server via the ESPHome plugin to monitor ionizing radiation levels.
Are you tracking radon levels, or is it for another type of radiation?
I’ve rigged up an old LED sign that says ‘Ramen’ to a smart switch. It’s over-the-top but always brings a smile to my face. Also, I have a lava lamp on a timer so it’s just starting to flow when we wake up.
I use an IKEA motion sensor’s illuminance capability to control lighting more accurately than just using sunrise and sunset times. This setup is especially useful for dealing with unexpected cloud cover.
After constant raccoon problems, I created an automated system that triggers firecrackers when they tamper with my trash. It’s controlled remotely and resets itself, ensuring peaceful nights without further raccoon disturbances.
The smart blinds in my home are some of my favorite gadgets. They adjust automatically based on sunlight, making life a lot easier.
@SIMOHblue
Both blinds I use, from IKEA and the Shade Store, were smart from the start. They’ve been incredibly convenient.