The Smart Home Blog is a dedicated platform for exploring the latest in home technology and automation. We cover a wide range of topics, from smart devices and IoT to home security, energy-efficient solutions, and automation systems.
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The aim of the site is to encourage efficiency and sustainability through smart home technology.
The Smart Home Blog features in-depth reviews, expert guides, and practical tips for integrating technology into your home. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home efficiency, discover innovative gadgets, or stay up-to-date with the latest trends, we provide valuable insights to help you create a smarter, more connected living space.
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The Smart Home Blog Updates
As February saw the launch of both the Apple iPhone 16e and the Smart Home Blog, every post is new. Here are a list of the highlights. The aim is to update the website every fortnight.
The Garmin Epix Pro Review
Managing .Ft Files in Garmin and Strava
Getting Started with Apple AirTag
The Eve Aqua HomeKit Watering System
30 Days with the Apple Watch
Linking Google Nest to Apple Home
The Ecowitt Wittboy Weather Station and Home Assistant
Can Smart Plugs Actually Save Monday?
The Smart Greenhouse Project
Getting Started with Apple Home
Smart Home Blog: Purchases
There was very little purchased for our smart home set up during February. Following the Apple AirTag article I explored the idea of the smart card (rather than the AirTag) for wallet tracking. After a bit of research I opted for the SwitchBot wallet tracker.
After four days, I purchased a second. It’s a great little device with up to one year of battery. It literally took two seconds to set up with the Apple Find My App. The Switchbot Wallet Tracker. (#ad)
The Smart Home Blog Journal : What’s been updated this month?
I am very happy to say February was a straightforward month for smart home maintenance. There were no breakdowns, software issues or catastrophes. The routine updates are listed below.
Home Assistant Update 2025.1
In February I updated my Home Assistant install to version 2025.1. This update introduces a major upgrade to the backup system. It is now possible to automate backups with scheduling options and encrypted cloud storage via Home Assistant Cloud, offering 5GB of secure off-site storage for subscribers.
A setup wizard helps configure encryption keys, backup frequency, and retention policies, making it easy to set up a reliable backup strategy.
Moving from the traditional Google backup option was straightforward so I may not need as much Google storage moving forward. As well as the cloud storage the update also allows future integrations with other storage providers.
Ecowitt Weather Station Update
There was a noticeable improvement in solar charging capacity during February. In summary the Ecowitt Wittboy solar charging is very weak during November to February.
You can see the drop in October (click for a larger view) and the flicker of hope in February. Amazon Link: The Wittboy Weather Station. [Ad]
Aqara Battery Replacement
I Replaced the battery in the Aqara Door and Window Sensor P2 after approximately 5 months. The sensor is on the fame access to the building so it’s not unexpected. I need to actually get the sensor paired to the Aqara app as I can’t seem to manage battery alerts.
Home Assistant reports both voltage and battery% but when I check back in the history it is constantly 100% battery. I am also I still on Firmware 1.0.0. I probably need to invest in an Aqara hub in the near future. Amazon Link: Aqara Door and Window Sensor P2 [Ad]
Bevel Health App V2
This month I updated to Bevel v2. Bevel is one of my favourite Apple Watch Apps (I am now on the Apple Watch Ultra 2). The app tracks and advices on key activity data. Bevel v2 offers the ability to track nutrition.
I am genuinely surprised how well the AI system performs, take a photo of your meal and Bevel does the rest. It will be interesting to see how it performs long term, so far, it’s great. Link: Bevel Health App
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The Smart Home Blog Journal will provide a monthly update on our smart home maintenance, improvements, and new installations. Stay informed about the latest smart home technology advancements, system upgrades and troubleshooting tips. The journal will also address any optimisations we have explored to enhance our connected home experience. The Smart Home Blog UK.
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