Blog

ESPHome and ESP32: Building Custom Smart Home Sensors for Under $10

ESPHome lets you build custom smart home sensors using cheap ESP32 microcontrollers and simple YAML configuration. Here's how to get started and some practical projects that cost a fraction of commercial devices.

How to Set Up Adaptive Lighting Based on Time of Day

Your smart lights can automatically adjust color temperature throughout the day to match natural light patterns. Here's how to set it up.

Wi-Fi Smart Devices Keep Going Offline? A Permanent Fix Guide

Running a Home Energy Audit with Smart Devices

Use smart plugs, energy monitors, and sensors to find exactly where your electricity is going and cut your power bill. Here's a step-by-step approach to auditing your home energy usage.

How to Create Reliable Presence Detection Without Motion Sensors

Motion sensors only detect movement. Here's how to build presence detection that knows when someone is in a room even if they're sitting still.

Smart Home Automations Not Running? Troubleshooting Every Platform

How to Set Up Geofencing for Smart Home Automation

Geofencing uses your phone's location to trigger automations when you arrive or leave home. Here's how to set it up properly.

Smart Thermostat Keeps Changing Temperature on Its Own? Here's Why

When the Power Goes Out: How Smart Homes Handle Blackouts

A practical guide to preparing your smart home for power outages, from UPS battery backups and hub resilience to whole-home battery systems and post-outage recovery.