u/GnG_Builds

I picked up the Reolink E1 Zoom to watch my pupper while at work and so far I love how easy the setup was. The Reolink app doesn't require an account and integrating it to HA was very simple, just link the IP. My only current complain is that the PTZ control, although all there, the buttons in HA are start/stop. I can't get them to work like the joystick in the app.

Right now I have to press PTZ "direction" then PTZ stop, makes it hard to control. Any ideas or suggestions on how to get the PTZ to work as close as it does in the Reolink app in a card?

Fixed the rotting expansion joint between the house and driveway this weekend. Out with the old ant-infested sealant, in with a fresh joint.

I leveled it with sand, tucked in 35’ of 3/4” backer rod, and caulked some self-leveling sealant to top it off. Total cost was around $60. Pretty happy with the results!

Fixed the rotting expansion joint between the house and driveway this weekend. Out with the old ant-infested sealant, in with a fresh joint.

I leveled it with sand, tucked in 35’ of 3/4” backer rod, and caulked some self-leveling sealant to top it off. Total cost was around $60. Pretty happy with the results!

Tools & Parts:

1. Sealant
2. Backer Rod
3. All purpose sand
4. Painters Spatula
5. Caulk Gun

Last week I posted my garage door setup for HA control and got great feedback on the wiring. Here is the updated version!

I used a 3x3 electrical box to properly enclose the Shelly and terminated the wires using ferrules for a more secure connection. I also tidied up the slack with some good ol' zip ties. It feels a lot safer now. Thanks for the tips everyone!

*Didn't use a RatDGO because I have a OHD Motor.*

Parts:

1. Electrical Junction Box
2. Ferrule Crimping Tool Kit
3. Shelly 1 Mini Gen4

Original Post

Finally got around to installing a Shelly relay and a door sensor on my garage door. I configured the Shelly as a momentary switch (1s pulse) since that’s what my motor expects. I have an enclosure on the way to cover the contacts.

For the sensor, I went with the ThirdReality Tilt Sensor. It’s actually pretty slick it has a built-in alarm and adjustable sensitivity. Right now, I just have HA firing off notifications when the door opens. I set the sensitivity to High (>20 degree tilt), and since I mounted it on the top panel, it triggers when the door has only opened about 1.5 feet.

You don't need Home Assistant, control the relay via the Shelly app for just door control.

Parts

1. Shelly 1 Mini Gen4
2. ThirdReality Tilt Sensor

edit: Thanks for the tips guys. Have an electrical box and some ferrules on order. Will make the Shelly safe.

Finally got around to installing a Shelly relay and a door sensor on my garage door. I configured the Shelly as a momentary, NO, switch (1s pulse) since that’s what my motor expects. I setup via Wi-Fi since its powered by the outlet

For the door status, I went with the ThirdReality Tilt Sensor via Zigbee. It’s actually pretty slick it has a built-in alarm and adjustable sensitivity. Right now, I just have HA firing off notifications when the door opens. I set the sensitivity to High (>20 degree tilt), and since I mounted it on the top panel, it triggers when the door has only opened about 1.5 feet. 

Parts

1. Shelly 1 Mini Gen4
2. ThirdReality Tilt Sensor

I’ve been using the Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug for a few months now, and it’s a solid plug and play Matter device. I’ve been using it to automate my patio lights in HA based on the sun angle, and its been great. I got mine for 15% off, but they’re 50% off right now if you want to snag one.

I also just picked up the TP-Link Tapo Matter Outdoor Plug last week because I needed the dual outlets for some front-of-house decor.

Specs

• Rating: Both are 15A and IP65 weather-resistant.
• Smart Home: Both work exactly the same via Matter. The only big difference is that the Tapo has two switches so you can control each outlet individually.
• Non-HA Users: The Leviton has a built-in light sensor for auto dusk-to-dawn, but both have scheduling in their own apps.

My Take

I actually like the Leviton a bit more because it has mounting holes, so it looks way cleaner on the wall. The Tapo just kind of hangs there. Plus, the Tapo has a 90-degree plug that ends up blocking both wall outlets, which is kind of a pain.

Overall, both are great, but the Leviton feels a little more "pro" on the install.

Items:
-Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug

-Hrensaw Small Weatherproof Electrical Connection Box

-TP-Link Tapo Matter Outdoor Smart Plug

-Patio String Lights