Home Monitoring and Control on a Budget

When I’m on the road for months at a time, I often wonder about my house and how it’s faring. Years ago, I reviewed a Wi-Fi temperature monitoring system, but sadly, it’s no longer available. Recently, I began looking for a replacement and started playing with Wi-Fi smart switches and devices. These gadgets communicate across the “Internet of Things” (IOT) and don’t require a hub to work.

ENBRIGHTEN SWITCHES

I started with some Enbrighten switches, mostly because they were inexpensive and on the shelf at Lowes. These compact little switches simply plug into any AC outlet and will allow you to control lights and appliances. Each switch independently communicates through the cloud and is controlled by an App on your phone. The Enbrighten app allows you to control the switches and also see the current status (On/Off) of each switch. However, the real power is in the app’s ability to set timers and conditional automation sequences (or “scenes” in the parlance of home automation speak).

TEMPERATURE MONITORING

Okay, this is great for timers, but what about temperature monitoring? Well, after some experimentation, I discovered that the Enbrighten app is compatible with a wide range of devices, including temperature and humidity monitors, water leak detectors, LED bulbs, home security sensors and devices, and smart wall switches and outlets. Now, I can add a temp/humidity sensor and easily program a macro in the app to turn a dehumidifier on or off based on the humidity. Plus, I can monitor and control every device in my house when I’m on the road.

There are a bunch of other home automation apps out there, like TuyaSmart, Geeni, SmartLife and Home Assistant, to name a few. Also, all these devices can be controlled by Alexa, Google nest, Echo and more. And, best of all, the devices are surprisingly affordable and functional. For instance, the Enbrighten smart plugs are available online and at Lowes stores and are about $10 each. Online, you can often find them on sale for about one half of that price, which is very affordable!

SOME CAVEATS

All the devices I’ve played with require a 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi connection and won’t work on a 5Ghz Wi-Fi network. There is a setup procedure for each switch or device, just follow the easy directions that come with them. Look for devices that are compatible with Tuyasmart or Smart life apps.

I have been impressed with the reliability and stability of the system and app! I now have a temp monitor on my chest freezer that will send me a notification if the temperature gets out of the desired range, and a humidity monitor that controls the house dehumidifier and notifies me when it runs. Plus, I have sunset to sunrise outdoor lighting that automatically adjusts to the change of seasons. Best of all, I can see and control each device from the RV in another state and change things if they need changing, all for a very small mone­tary investment. If you have Internet and wifi in your RV, think of what you could do with a few of these little smart devices!

Complete Product Name: Home Monitoring and Control on a Budget

Company Name and Info: Jasco Products Company, 10 East Memorial Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73114-2205, 855-527-2687, http://www.enbrightenme.com

Online Shopping Links: http://www.enbrightenme.com

Average Street Price: Switches are around $10 each, and other sensors and devices are in the $20-$40 range

Original Publication Date: MA/24