I’m a nerd at my core, among other things. One thing I enjoy is building up the automated options in my home. I’m a big tightwad as well. I chose to go with insteon products because they’ve been around a while, seemed to have a diverse ecosystem and offered good looking equipment. There is also a great gently used market for the equipment. Some of their endeavors are less than inspiring in the performance department but on the whole I’m getting good use out of everthing.
My first automation purchase was two keypad locks for the front and garage door. That way we didn’t have to worry about being locked out of the house and could ditch our keys. I didn’t find out until later that you need a separate controller to interface the locks with insteon. Go figure right.
I really got serious when I started converting some line voltage thermostats to wireless ones. That required two components and a power source for the new tstat. I eventually got that all worked out and even got the tstat wall mounted in the kitchen/dining room.
Eventually I got my hands on a light switch to control my porch light that was always left on. That led to more light switches. Now my downstairs light is on and ready for me at 4:45 when I wake up, and switches of not long after I leave. I got a screaming deal on a keypad that went into my master suite and controls all the current switches. Slowly but surely most of the switches will converted over.
The heart of the operation is a Universal Devices ISY99i IR pro. Last generations model but suites me fine. Presently I’m dealing with communication issues with some upstairs switches. After adding an access point and line filter it’s slowly sorting itself out. I’ll be the first to admit I’m no expert, so I’ve been pressing forward and learning as I go. As the title would infer every now and then it’s easiest to just reset everything and start fresh but such is life with technology.
I’ve been playing with dimmable LED bulbs lately. After hours the lights are set to dim automatically so it’s easier on our eyes. Eventually I’ll be adding sensors to all doors and windows and some leak sensors and key appliances. Like any nerd stuff it all comes down having a great time doing it.