When Smart Gets Smarter: Lighting, Lawn Care, and DIY Solar Systems – HGG654
Gavin Campbell joins me this week for a deep dive into smart-home automation, solar experimentation, and the latest in robotic lawn care. Jim shares updates and lessons learned from his BLUETTI solar setup and how he’s trying to integrate it with Home Assistant for smarter energy use. Gavin brings insights on millimeter wave technology in light switches, PoE-powered Zigbee/Z-Wave hubs, and the benefits of RTF grass and robotic mowers. The two also explore smart watering systems, the rise of LiDAR in lawn robotics, and cap things off with a candid chat on Sonos headphones and the ongoing power tool brand wars. It’s an episode packed with smart tech, real-world trials, and a few lawn care surprises. Thanks for listening!
How Are Smart Lighting, Robot Lawn Care, and DIY Solar Getting Better?
The short answer: in HGG654, Jim Collison and Gavin Campbell look at smart-home and outdoor systems that are getting more useful through better automation, sensors, integration and easier energy management. Jim’s BLUETTI solar experiment and Gavin’s smart lighting, PoE controller and robot mower experience also show the practical side: the real value depends on setup quality, reliability and whether the technology solves an actual household problem.
Key Takeaways
- Smart lighting becomes more useful when sensors and automations control everyday behavior instead of simply replacing a wall switch with an app.
- Gavin’s robot mower experience shows how frequent, consistent cutting can reduce repetitive lawn work and improve lawn appearance over time.
- Mapping, GPS-based navigation, boundaries, sensors and long-term reliability matter as much as the headline features on a robotic lawn mower.
- Jim’s DIY solar project gives him a way to experiment with panels, a portable BLUETTI power station, battery charging and Home Assistant automation.
- Understanding load, battery level and solar input is essential before trying to expand a small energy setup to larger household devices like a pool pump.
- PoE-powered Zigbee and Z-Wave controllers can make smart-home devices more valuable by improving placement, connectivity and integration.
- Jim and Gavin keep coming back to practical usefulness: choose smart-home, lawn-care and power tools because they solve a real household problem, not just because they are new.
In this episode, we discuss a broad range of topics surrounding home technology with my guest Gavin Campbell. We kick off with a discussion on the unusual weather patterns we’ve been experiencing, reflecting on recent heat waves and sudden thunderstorms. These weather fluctuations have spurred conversations about practical solutions to keep cool during the hot months, including improvements being made in our own homes, such as installing air conditioning units in garages and sheds.
Transitioning from our weather woes, we talk about my ongoing solar project. Last week, I experimented with Eco-Worthy solar panels and a BLUETTI solar generator, aiming to tap into solar energy efficiently. However, I encountered some misconceptions regarding the system’s solar priority — a feature I learned isn’t as straightforward as expected, and I urge listeners to go into these projects with realistic expectations after reaching out to the manufacturer for clarity. Gavin offers insights about home automation and smart devices, suggesting creative ways to optimize solar energy usage by incorporating Home Assistant technology.
As we further explore automation, Gavin educates me about potential hacks for monitoring energy levels and controlling power sources, including smart plugs that could help improve efficiency by regulating when to pull energy from solar versus grid supply. He introduces inventive measures using wireless connections and automations that could help me maximize my solar input, even in overcast conditions.
The conversation then shifts to smart-home devices, highlighting the latest PoE (Power over Ethernet) controllers that Gavin has incorporated into his home for Z-Wave and Zigbee automation systems. He shares his experience with these systems, explaining how they enhance connectivity and performance across his smart devices. Gavin also gives us the scoop on the notable features and designs of new switches from Inovelli, emphasizing their ability to detect occupancy with millimeter-wave technology, thereby creating automated ambient lighting.
Next, we dive into Gavin’s experience with robotic lawn mowers, particularly with the Navimow 110 series. He discusses his findings after using the mower for several months in tandem with his RTF (Rhizomatous Tall Fescue) turf, which has transformed his lawn. He emphasizes the mower’s efficiency and the significant enhancement in lawn health from regular maintenance, while drawing comparisons with traditional mowing methods and outlining the benefits of consistent trimming.
Wrapping up, we touch upon the nuances of brand loyalty in power tools. Gavin and I exchange insights on various brands such as DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Ryobi, sharing personal experiences with these tools and addressing common frustrations with battery compatibility. Gavin then provides a sneak peek into upcoming episodes of his podcast, HomeTech.fm, featuring fascinating interviews and conversations centered around the latest in home automation and technology.
Through the episode, we blend practical advice with personal anecdotes, creating an engaging dialogue around home technologies and automation solutions that listeners can implement in their own spaces for improved efficiency and comfort.
Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg654
Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #654 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.
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Links
SLZB-MR1 – https://smlight.tech/product/slzb-mr1
TubesZB – https://tubeszb.com/product/tubeszb-dual-radio-kit-with-zooz-zac93/
Chapters
[00:07] – Introduction to Home Gadget Geeks
[02:25] – Solar Project Update
[03:13] – BLUETTI Insights
[07:28] – Home Assistant Automation Ideas
[12:00] – Millimeter Wave Technology
[33:57] – Innovations in Dimmer Switches
[37:41] – Advanced Light Control Solutions
[38:45] – Smart Home Innovations
[40:36] – Robotic Lawn Mower Experience
[45:27] – Lawn Care Secrets
[48:14] – RTF Grass Technology
[49:07] – Smart Water Management
[50:40] – The Future of Moisture Sensors
[52:14] – Lidar in Robotic Mowers
[56:25] – Sonos Headphones Review
[1:04:34] – Tool Ecosystem Wars
[1:10:39] – Upcoming Interviews on HomeTech.fm
Summary
- Weather and Home Gadgets Discussion[0:00]
- Jim Collison and Gavin Campbell discuss the recent weather, noting a thunderstorm that brought temperatures down.
- Jim mentions his efforts to stay cool, including running wiring for an air conditioner in his garage.
- Jim thanks Patreon subscribers and mentions the solar project update.
- Jim explains the setup of his solar project, including the BLUETTI solar generator and the issues he faced with solar priority.
- Solar Project Update and BLUETTI Issues[3:38]
- Jim details the equipment he bought for the solar project, including two 100-watt Eco-Worthy panels and the BLUETTI solar generator.
- Jim explains the misconception about the BLUETTI’s solar priority feature and the support he received from BLUETTI.
- Jim discusses his plan to use Home Assistant to automate the charging process of the BLUETTI.
- Gavin Campbell suggests using a Bluetooth receiver and Home Assistant to control the BLUETTI.
- Home Assistant and Solar Integration[7:10]
- Gavin explains how to use Home Assistant to automate the BLUETTI’s charging process.
- Jim considers using a Tapo app to turn the power on and off based on the BLUETTI’s battery level.
- Gavin suggests using an amp clamp to measure the power coming in from the solar panels.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the potential benefits and challenges of using Home Assistant for solar integration.
- Pool Pump and Solar Panel Placement[15:48]
- Jim and Gavin discuss the power consumption of Jim’s pool pump and the feasibility of running it on solar power.
- Jim considers moving his solar panels to the backyard to take advantage of the earlier sun exposure.
- Gavin suggests using a follow-the-sun device to optimize the solar panel angle throughout the day.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the cost and benefits of using multiple solar panels to power the pool pump.
- Zigbee/Z-Wave Controllers[21:45]
- Gavin introduces the SM Light PoE controller for Zigbee/Z-Wave, highlighting its benefits for centralizing devices.
- Gavin mentions the upcoming Zigbee/Z-Wave version of the SMLIGHT controller.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the cost and features of the SMLIGHT controller.
- Gavin also introduces the TubesZB dual radio kit for Zigbee/Z-Wave, comparing it to the SMLIGHT controller.
- Millimeter Wave Sensors and Dimmer Switches[24:26]
- Gavin discusses the Inovelli Red Series Z-Wave millimeter-wave sensor and its occupancy sensing capabilities.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using millimeter wave sensors for automation.
- Gavin introduces the Aqara FP2 wired millimeter wave sensor, highlighting its advanced features and visual representation of occupancy.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the cost and placement considerations of millimeter wave sensors.
- Lawn Mower and Seed Experiment[40:21]
- Gavin shares his experience with the Navimow 110 series robot lawn mower and its impact on his lawn’s health.
- Gavin explains the benefits of using RTF seed for lawn repair and the results he observed after two years.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the differences between RTF seed and other types of grass, such as Zoysia.
- Gavin mentions the use of moisture sensors in his lawn and the new soil moisture sensor from Ecowitt.
- Robot Lawn Mower Features and Future Developments[52:08]
- Gavin discusses the features of the Navimow 110 series, including its software and GPS-based navigation.
- Jim and Gavin talk about the potential benefits of LiDAR technology in future robot lawn mowers.
- Gavin mentions the higher cost and limited availability of LiDAR-based mowers.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the durability and maintenance of robot lawn mowers, including battery replacement.
- Power Tool Batteries and Adapters[58:49]
- Jim and Gavin discuss the challenges and costs of power tool batteries, including the potential for adapters to use different brands.
- Jim shares his experience with BLACK+DECKER tools and the issues he faced with battery-powered equipment.
- Gavin mentions his use of DeWalt tools and the benefits of having a consistent battery ecosystem.
- Jim and Gavin discuss the potential for adapters to make different power tool brands more compatible.
- Sonos Headphones and Final Thoughts[1:04:36]
- Jim asks Gavin about his experience with Sonos headphones.
- Gavin shares his positive experience with the Sonos headphones, noting their sound quality and comfort.
- Jim and Gavin wrap up the discussion, thanking each other and the audience for their participation.
- Jim mentions the upcoming topics for future episodes and encourages listeners to stay tuned.
- Sonos Headphones and Their Features[1:04:53]
- Gavin Campbell discusses his experience with Sonos headphones, which he bought at a discount on eBay.
- He highlights the headphones’ noise-canceling feature and their ability to connect to TV audio, allowing him to watch TV without disturbing others.
- Gavin mentions the need for a Sonos sound bar on each TV to use this feature effectively.
- He notes that the headphones are great for watching TV late at night in the basement without disturbing others.
- Challenges and Preferences in Headphone Usage[1:06:17]
- Gavin Campbell mentions some annoyances with the headphones but notes that software updates have addressed many issues.
- He expresses a wish to use the headphones for podcasting but notes a delay in voice due to digital processing.
- Jim Collison shares his preference for earbuds at work and mentions his use of Audio-Technica BP1 headset.
- Jim discusses his potential switch to using cans (headphones) instead of earbuds.
- Tool Brand Preferences and Discussions[1:07:35]
- Jim Collison and Gavin Campbell discuss their preferences for tool brands, mentioning Ryobi, BLACK+DECKER, DeWalt, and Milwaukee.
- Jim notes that there is a lot of competition in the tool space, which leads to better products.
- Gavin shares a story about borrowing tools from a neighbor due to the convenience of using different brands.
- Jim mentions that in the farming space, brands like Caterpillar and John Deere are well-known, similar to the tool brands.
- Upcoming Content on HomeTech.fm[1:10:40]
- Gavin Campbell announces upcoming guest interviews on HomeTech.fm, including Jimmy Hawkins from Automated House and Wayne Crifles from Navimow North America.
- He mentions that the interviews cover smart-home-related topics and provide valuable feedback on robot lawn mowers.
- Jim Collison encourages listeners to check out HomeTech.fm for more technical but fun content.
- Gavin and Jim discuss the challenges of having Seth on the show due to his unfinished projects.
- Plans for CES 2024[1:12:33]
- Gavin Campbell announces that the HomeTech.fm team will be attending CES 2024 in January.
- He mentions that they will be recording audio and video during the event and meeting with other creators and companies.
- Jim Collison asks about the possibility of live coverage, and Gavin explains that it will be challenging to coordinate.
- Gavin shares that they will be meeting with various companies and creators during CES 2024.
- Closing Remarks and Community Engagement[1:13:37]
- Jim Collison reminds listeners to join the Discord group for discussions and community engagement.
- He mentions the availability of reliable, high-speed hosting from Maple Grove Partners.
- Jim thanks listeners for their emails and mentions a long email he received about home servers and NAS.
- He encourages listeners to subscribe, follow, and engage with the show on various platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What smart-home technologies were discussed in HGG654?
Jim and Gavin discuss Home Assistant automation, PoE Zigbee and Z-Wave controllers, Inovelli millimeter-wave switches, the Aqara FP2 presence sensor, moisture sensing, smart watering ideas, robotic lawn mowing and Jim’s BLUETTI solar setup.
How are smart lighting systems becoming more useful?
Gavin points to switches and sensors that can detect occupancy and trigger lighting behavior automatically. The episode frames lighting as more useful when it reacts to real activity in the home instead of relying only on manual control or app taps.
What should someone consider before buying a robot mower?
The conversation focuses on the yard itself, setup complexity, mapping or boundary needs, navigation reliability, maintenance and whether frequent automated trimming fits the lawn-care goal.
How do robot mowers know where to cut?
In this episode, Gavin talks about the Navimow 110 series and its GPS-based navigation, while Jim and Gavin also discuss LiDAR as a future direction for some robotic mowers. The post preserves those as episode-context observations rather than broad claims about every mower.
What does Jim’s DIY solar setup include?
Jim describes experimenting with two 100-watt Eco-Worthy panels and a BLUETTI solar generator or portable power station. The discussion centers on solar input, battery charging, solar-priority expectations and ways Home Assistant might help automate charging behavior.
How can battery storage fit into a home solar project?
For HGG654, the battery discussion stays practical: monitor battery level, understand the load, know what the portable power station can realistically support and use automation carefully before trying larger household loads.
What matters most when integrating smart-home devices?
Jim and Gavin emphasize reliable communication, useful sensor data, good device placement and automations that match the household problem. Their examples include Home Assistant, smart plugs, PoE controllers, Zigbee, Z-Wave and solar-monitoring ideas.
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Popular Tags: Podcast, Home Gadget Geeks, Jim Collison, Gavin Campbell, smart-home automation, BLUETTI solar generator, Home Assistant hacks, robotic lawn mower, RTF grass, millimeter wave switches, Zigbee/Z-Wave controller, smart irrigation, Sonos headphones review, power tool ecosystems
