5 Insane Home Automation Ideas from Reddit

TL;DR

This video showcases unique and impressive home automations from Reddit, including subway light indicators, stair lights, hidden robot vacuum storage, fog machine celebrations, and a toddler remote.

Transcript

So today’s video is a little different.  You probably know that I LOVE coming up   with home automation ideas. But I’m  also inspired by other smart homes.  In this video I have some INSANE automations  from Reddit that I’m excited to show you.  I’m hoping this video kicks off a series,  where I feature YOUR unique automations.   Because I know man... Read More

Key Insights

• 😒 The use of APIs for real-time information, such as subway schedules, enhances the functionality of home automation.
• 🙂 Addressable light strips offer flexibility in creating different lighting effects, like the stair lights.
• 🤖 Actuators can be employed to create hidden storage solutions, as demonstrated with the robot vacuum cabinet.
• 👪 Fog machines can be integrated into home automation setups, providing a unique and celebratory experience.
• ▶️ Toddler remotes utilizing smart switches and buttons can entertain children and automate tasks like playing shows on streaming platforms.
• 💁 Sharing home automation ideas and setups through videos and online platforms fosters inspiration and information exchange within the community.
• 🥺 Inexpensive equipment and creative problem-solving can lead to impressive home automation implementations.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the subway light indicator automation work?

The automation utilizes the city subway's API to determine when the next train will arrive. It factors in walking time to the station and changes the light strip colors accordingly, simplifying the process of knowing when to leave.

Q: Can the stair lights automation be implemented without wiring the stairs?

Yes, an alternative option is to use an addressable light strip in a channel cover going down the stairs. Each section of the strip could light up as you walk down, providing a similar effect without the need for extensive wiring.

Q: What technology is used to control the hidden robot vacuum storage?

An actuator is used to open and close the door of a bottom cabinet, creating a garage door-like entrance for the robot vacuum. It adds convenience and reduces clutter in the main area of the house.

Q: How can a toddler remote automate Netflix playback?

One approach involves using a Philips Hue smart dimmer switch connected to a Fire TV. By programming ADB commands, the switch can automatically play shows on Netflix. Another option is to use a Broadlink button to trigger Amazon Routines that initiate playback.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The video features a home in New York with a custom-made Disneyland sign that changes light strip colors to indicate when to leave for the subway, based on real-time subway information.

• Another automation involves stair lights that illuminate when going down and turn off automatically, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of tripping.

• A hidden robot vacuum storage solution is demonstrated, using an actuator to open and close a cabinet door for the vacuum to enter and exit.

• The video also showcases a fog machine automation for celebrating team goals and a toddler remote that triggers specific actions, such as playing shows on Netflix.