Home automation is a wonderful tool for anyone who likes the idea of making daily life more convenient. In addition, most home automation systems come with common routines (also known as automations) that most consumers find useful. But the real joy of home automation is found in learning how to create your own routines.
Learning to create routines changes everything. It transforms a basic home automation system into a convenience platform with unlimited possibilities. Learning does take time and effort, but I believe it is worth the investment.
The Basics of a Routine
Whether you prefer the term ‘routines’ or ‘automations’, learning to create them begins with understanding the basics. A home automation routine is essentially a script that tells your system to do something automatically. A script can be triggered by:
- A verbal command.
- Your physical location.
- A schedule based on time, date, etc.
- Input from another home automation device.
- Input from a home security sensor.
I am notorious for forgetting to pay my bills and balance my bank accounts. So one of the first routines I learn to create involved setting reminders. On specific days of the month, I get email reminders letting me know bills are due. This works for me because my job requires me to monitor email all day long.
When I eventually retire and stop using email so much, I will change the reminders from email to audio. So instead of my system sending me messages, I will get reminders from my smart speaker.
Triggers and Their Responses
Although some home automation systems inexplicably complicate routine creation, the entire concept boils down to two simple things: triggers and a system’s responses to them. My email reminders are triggered by calendar date. But I have another routine that I use to charge my lawnmower and edger.
I start the charging process with a verbal command. That command triggers a smart plug to turn on. I have a second routine that monitors the plug. After it has been on for four hours, the routine automatically shuts it off. This way, I can charge my lawn tools without fear of overcharging.
Your Mileage May Vary
At this point, it is important to note that your mileage may vary based on the ecosystem you invest in. Some ecosystems are more limited than others. I use a popular open-source platform that has been described as the most powerful in the industry. It supports thousands of devices and offers unlimited possibilities for programming.
You might be interested in a prepackaged system from a well-known brand like Vivint. Fortunately, Vivint systems are easily managed with built-in routines. You can also create your own routines. And if you want to add a Google or Amazon smart speaker to your Vivint system, you will have access to all the routines built into those ecosystems.
Individual Smart Home Devices
You might prefer to invest in individual smart home devices rather than a prepackaged system. That’s fine. Most devices can be sufficiently controlled with their companion apps. In fact, I have one security camera that isn’t compatible with my home automation platform. I need to control it through the app. My options are more limited, but I can still create custom routines for it.
Although this post could delve into the topic of home automation routines in more detail, the point being made here is pretty clear: learning how to create your own routines unlocks the potential your home automation system offers. So take the time and make the effort. Learning to create your own routines will change everything.
