My approach for home automation has been shaped by how the device integrates with my home ecosystem.

There are three approaches.

1. Third party hub to talk to devices
2. Use wifi to connect to home automation ecosystem.
3. Use Bluetooth/Thread to connect to the ecosystem

At first, I was against the third party hubs because I didn’t want to have to buy a hub for every device I wanted to buy.

So initially I only had devices that used WiFi. And I could use my Apple TV as the hub for the ecosystem.

And it worked initially. But as I added more devices, I saturated my network with these WiFi devices and I had to constantly reset these devices. They used the old 2.4 GHz protocol and I think cheap chips.

Over the years, I have swapped out devices and have mostly eliminated devices that use wifi. Apple TVs now have a Thread radio which allows me to connect Thread devices to my ecosystem.

I have a bunch of smart outlets that work over Thread. One big advantage to Thread is that a thread device is plugged in it can act a router for the Thread mesh network. Another is it a low power protocol who works well for battery powered devices.

But for the downstairs light switches, I decided I wanted the most stable, set it and forget it, switches. And for that I am using Lutron Caseta, which does use a hub. And the switches look like light switches which means my wife won’t be annoyed using them.

The lesson here is that don’t be afraid to change your assumptions and adapt to the situation. 

Seize the day everyone!

PS. I have a bunch of devices in my home automation eco system…