ᐅ Smart Home Automation – Experiences

Hello everyone,

I am considering installing a home automation system again for my next project. So far, I have been using Homematic and am satisfied with it.

Since this is an older building where the entire electrical system needs to be completely redone, it is important—or rather helpful—to know which system to use.

There have been many developments in this area over the past two years, and I would like to hear your opinions.

Good luck

Hmm, in what way has much been done? The media keeps hyping the so-called "smart homes," but that term covers everything—from high-tech houses that can learn what the occupants need at different times to simple remotely controlled power outlets.

Other than that, the technology is basically the same... it’s just that many more manufacturers have jumped on the bandwagon, and everyone tries to sell their proprietary system as the best... after all, everyone wants a piece of the pie...

Then I'll better describe exactly what I need.
Shutter control, camera with intercom and camera, radiator thermostat heads, underfloor heating, switched outlets, lighting, smoke detectors, and possibly a garage door.

These are the general requirements I have, and maybe you can recommend something.

There is the guide "c't wissen Smart Home" (just try googling it, links are not allowed here), which contains a lot of useful information, including about the different systems currently leading the market, along with their strengths and weaknesses. It’s reasonably priced (8.30 €) and recommended as an introduction.

There are countless roller shutter control systems available... Intercoms with or without cameras... these almost always run on proprietary manufacturer systems... Heating systems/floor heating, etc. can be managed via Homematic or similar platforms... you mentioned you have experience with that... Lighting works excellently with DALI, and controllable sockets can also be operated through Homematic or many other providers... this is usually the more affordable option.

A bit more expensive for lighting, heating, roller shutters, sockets, etc., you might look at systems like Loxone...

And if you want the all-in-one solution, there’s no getting around KNX + DALI, which can handle everything but comes at a higher price point...