Home Assistant Podcast An empty-nester sparky’s Home Automation journey
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Aug 19, 2025 Dive into the fascinating world of home automation with an empty-nester electrician! Discover innovative DIY projects, from custom power monitoring to unique integrations, like pinball machines. Explore the pros and cons of Z-Wave versus ZigBee, and learn about sustainable practices in automating homes. This journey includes tackling challenges in wildlife management, solar solutions, and AI's role in automation. Join the fun as new technologies reshape everyday living, proving that automation can enhance both safety and enjoyment!
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From X10 To Practical Hardware
- Scott started with X10 and Homeseer and still keeps a carton of vintage gear for tinkering.
- He experimented with PLCs and now prefers off-the-shelf devices for maintainability.
Choose Maintainability Over Complexity
- Scott prefers commercial devices now to make maintenance easy for others in the household.
- He values quick replacement over custom fixes since he may not always be available to repair things.
Prefer Repairable, Higher-Quality Parts
- Avoid throwing away older electronics; repurpose them to reduce e-waste.
- Consider buying higher-quality components if you expect long-term reliability.