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You do know your asking a question now about what DOESN'T needs to be automated right?

The bedroom normally has some lights, and a curtain, besides that i cant really think of other stuff to automate. I normally get up, and put some clothes on me. Thats about all i would do in the bedroom. Maybe a master alarm/clock to wake up to..

// Erik (binkey.nl)

Well, I think everything can/should be automated... as long as it improves the quality of life for the people living there. The moment it starts "annoying" or making it more difficult than it was, then something is wrong.

Besides, even if something is "automated", it doesn't mean it shouldn't be controlled "manually".
For instance, when I wake up I press my "wake up" macro button, that opens my window shutters at 50% in my room, and fully open in the kitchen and living room, as well as some lights and heating in the bathroom (if needed).

So, I guess there's nothing that "shouldn't" be automated - provided that you have failsafe systems in case you're dealing with life-saving emergency systems or something like that.

About the washer/dryer-ready question.
I just added a 2-switch kaku wall switch next to the washer/dryer. When we start washing/drying we press one of the buttons. This triggers an event that captures the power consumption every 1 minute.
My guess is that after a month or so I shold have enough data to predict the duration and analyze the consumption pattern.
With this info I could trigger "ready" notifications.. Will post more info when available.

Bye!
DJ

My washing machine turns itself off after completing its cycle and an alert beep. This can be easily checked with a power monitor on the wall socket. The feedback of the monitor can trigger an alert.

The sensor between the alert beeper idea from Pieter is a nice option too.

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What's on my list for this year:
- a room based automated heating system... Currently being implemented.
- automated radiator valve closure on opening a windows or the front/back door. (controlled per room)
- back alley light sensor hooked up to a motion sensor, hooked up to a light. ( currently the lights always on in the dark.)

Idea's to work on this year:
- how to smartly turn off equipment that's on standby. Like a tv, wii or all sorts of media devices. (and to be picky: I think Plugwise is overpriced).
- improve the power use of my district heating pump. See if I can turn it off and on based on my RF boiler relais information. The catch: it's also supplying my hot tap water. So I need to propably think about a reflux valve and a flow sensor in the hot tap water pipe, and that one linked to the power switch too.