Category: How To

Automating Z-Wave/Zigbee Home Basics

Alfred DB1 Z-Wave + Bluetooth Smart Lock

Alfred is a relative newcomer to the smart lock market. I first learned about them at CES 2020 when I passed what I thought were some of the most interesting locks I’ve ever seen. Very sexy in my opinion. Currently Alfred makes an entry-level line (DB1) and a professional line (DB2). This article discusses the…
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Hubitat EASY Home Automation – Without Rule Machine!

Hubitat Rule Machine can be a little overwhelming for first time users. The good news is, there are easier places to start your powerful home automations in Hubitat. We’ll look at four often overlooked apps that are user friendly. The apps include Motion Lighting, Simple Automation Rules, Groups and Scenes, and Button Controller. For the…
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bring old alarm wires back to life

Convert Your Old Wired Home Alarm System into a DIY Smart Home Security System

Homes with existing alarm system wiring can provide your home automation system with a multitude of sensors. The problem to date is that there have not been really good options to take advantage of the wired sensors. Until today that is. In late 2018, Fibaro released the Smart Implant which is a Z-Wave plus device…
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Yale YRD256-CBA / ZW2 / iM1 Smart Deadbolt Review

The Yale YRD256 line provides options for all home automation enthusiasts regardless of your platform. There are options for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee and Z-Wave Plus which aligns it with Apple HomeKit, SmartThings, Hubitat, Connected by August and other popular platforms. You can even use it with an app or no automation at all.  Connected by…
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Yale YRD156-ZW2 Smart Deadbolt Review

If you’re a dedicated Z-Wave enthusiast or you’re looking for reliable Z-Wave lock to integrate with your security system, this lock deserves a serious look. While it doesn’t have all of the cool features contained in the YRD256, this lock (YRD156) contains the functions required to ensure your smart home is safe and secure.  Buy…
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zooz zen30 double switch

Zooz Zen30 Double Switch

The Zooz Zen30 Double Switch is ideal for those single-gang boxes that have two switches. This is often found in bathrooms where you have a double-switch that controls a light and a fan, or a normal light and a heat lamp. The Zen30 has a single dimmer switch (top) and an on/off switch that controls…
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inovelli dimmer lzw31

Inovelli LZW31 Smart Dimmer Review

Inovelli Red Series Dimmer Inovelli Black Series Dimmer Overall Rating  The Inovelli LZW31 comes in two flavors, red and black. The Black Series dimmer is the utilitarian little brother of the Red Series dimmer. It’s nice that they decided to provide a basic version (that’s still very capable) for those customers that don’t want or…
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inovelli lzw30 smart switch

Inovelli LZW30 Smart On/Off Switch Review

Inovelli Red Series Switch Inovelli Black Series Switch Overall Rating  The Inovelli LZW30 on/off switch comes in two flavors, red and black. The Black Series switch is the utilitarian little brother of the Red Series switch. It’s nice that they decided to provide a basic version (that’s still very capable) for those customers that don’t want or…
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zooz zen26 and zen27 z-wave smart switch review

Zooz Zen26 Switch & Zen27 Dimmer Review

Zooz Zen26 on/off Switch  Zooz Zen27 Dimmer Switch Overall Rating  The Zooz Zen26 and Zen27 are two reliable Z-Wave Plus S2 switches. The Zen26 is a scene capable on/off switch, and the Zen27 is a scene capable dimmer. Being scene switches, they both support double-tap and multi-tap functions. The offer most of the capabilities you’d expect from…
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pairing schlage connect lock with hubitat

Pair the Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt with Hubitat Elevation

  Pairing the Schlage Z-Wave Connect Deadbolt with Hubitat Elevation Smart Home Hub can be a difficult task. This video was made before Hubitat pulled the lock from their supported device list. If you are having trouble, this video will help. It provides full instructions for factory reset, Z-Wave Exclusion & Inclusion, solving common problems…
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