Hey all,

Im constructing a new home in sort of a remote mountainous area. Its a small one bedroom cabin, nothing crazy. Im about to start plumbing but am planning on electrical.

If you were going to incorporate HA into a new build what would you do?

Im not super familiar with HA but would love to incorporate it in now. Should i be installing all smart switches? Smart outlets? Are there really worthwhile sensors I should be installing now before drywall etc?

Thanks

  • __init__@programming.devEnglish
    7·
    9 months ago
    1. Network cables everywhere. Way easier to do that before drywalling if that’s something you want.
    2. Neutrals in your switch boxes will make smart switches easier later. Though I heard that might be a code requirement for new construction anyway?
    3. Also heard oversize switch boxes are a thing, which will also make smart switches easier later (assuming price difference is negligible).
  • walden@sub.wetshaving.socialEnglish
    2·
    9 months ago

    It might be easier to have the electrician install normal switches at first. That will give you time to figure out which ones you want to be smart, which ones you want on dimmers, etc.

    Sensors will all be outside the wall, although you should make sure the thermostat wire has enough for a C wire.

    I don’t know about smart outlets – I don’t think they’re very common. Most smart outlets are designed to plug in to normal dumb outlets.

    If there’s a good spot on the ceiling, I’d have them run some ethernet cable to a box. You can leave it covered, but it’ll be there in case you decide to mount a WiFi AP there.

  • jubilationtcornpone@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    1·
    9 months ago

    I don’t get as much into automating for the sake of automating. Personally, I prefer technology that makes my life easier. Anything “smart” in our house has to be manually overrideable.

    That said, one thing I’m working on automating is the HVAC. Eventually I’ll have the Central heat, central humidifier, and whole house fan controls all integrated with HA. My goal is to maximize both comfort and energy efficiency. Being able to maintain the comfort level by automatically switching between A/C or fresh air (via the whole house fan) would be pretty cool (figuratively and literally).