How I Turned My Apartment Into a Smart Home in One Weekend

Replace regular bulbs with smart ones for scheduling and color changes.

1. 1
   Pick compatible bulbs — Choose Philips Hue White bulbs if you want scheduling, or color bulbs for ambiance. Make sure they work with your hub—most do via Wi-Fi or a bridge.
2. 2
   Install and connect — Screw the bulbs into lamps or fixtures, turn them on, and use the Philips Hue app to pair them with your hub. No electrician needed.
3. 3
   Set schedules — In the app, create a routine to turn lights on at sunset and off at bedtime. For example, set living room lights to dim at 10 PM automatically.
4. 4
   Add motion sensors — Place a Hue motion sensor in a hallway or bathroom to trigger lights when you walk in, saving energy.

Add security devices that you can monitor remotely for peace of mind.

1. 1
   Install a smart camera — Mount a Ring Stick Up Cam near your front door. Connect it to Wi-Fi using the Ring app and set up motion alerts to your phone.
2. 2
   Add a smart lock — Replace your deadbolt with a Yale Assure Lock. Follow the manual to install it—usually involves unscrewing the old lock and attaching the new one. Pair it with your hub for voice control.
3. 3
   Create access codes — Set unique codes for family members or guests in the lock's app, so you don't need to hand out keys.
4. 4
   Integrate with routines — Link the lock and camera so that when you unlock the door, the camera stops recording to save battery.
5. 5
   Test remotely — Lock and unlock the door from your phone while away to ensure it works, and check camera feeds to confirm visibility.

Install a thermostat that learns your habits to save energy and increase comfort.

1. 1
   Check compatibility — Turn off power to your old thermostat, remove it, and note the wires. Most smart thermostats like Nest work with standard systems, but verify in the manual.
2. 2
   Install the new thermostat — Attach the base plate, connect the wires as labeled, and snap the display on. Restore power and follow the on-screen setup in the Nest app.
3. 3
   Set a schedule — Program temperatures for when you're home, asleep, or away. For instance, set it to 20°C during the day and 18°C at night.
4. 4
   Enable learning mode — Let the thermostat adjust based on your usage over a week—it'll start anticipating when you need heat or cooling.

Combine devices into automated sequences that run with one command or at set times.

1. 1
   Open your hub app — In the Alexa or Google Home app, go to the Routines section and tap 'Create Routine'.
2. 2
   Choose a trigger — Pick a voice command like 'Good morning' or a time like 7 AM. You can also use sunrise/sunset or device triggers.
3. 3
   Add actions — Select devices to control—e.g., turn on lights, adjust thermostat to 21°C, and play news on your speaker. Order them as you prefer.
4. 4
   Test and tweak — Run the routine to see if it works smoothly. Adjust delays or device orders if needed—maybe add a 5-second pause before the coffee maker starts.
5. 5
   Expand over time — Add more devices as you buy them, like blinds or fans, to make routines more comprehensive.
6. 6
   Share with household — Invite family members to the app so they can use or modify routines, ensuring everyone benefits.