Add Sensors & Devices to SmartThings - A Simple Guide
Expanding Your SmartThings Home Monitoring System
The SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit provides an initial set of sensors and a smart plug, but its capabilities are readily expandable. Users can augment their security network by incorporating additional sensors and devices as needed.
Adding to the Base Kit
For those with limited security requirements, the starter kit itself can provide adequate coverage. Specifically, smaller apartments may find the included components sufficient.
The two open/close sensors are ideally suited for securing primary entry points like the front and patio doors. Furthermore, a single motion sensor can often oversee the majority of a smaller, open-concept living space.
Scaling for Larger Homes
However, larger residences with multiple exterior doors and a greater number of rooms will likely benefit from a more comprehensive sensor network.
Expanding the SmartThings system with additional sensors is a straightforward process. This allows homeowners to tailor the security setup to the specific layout and vulnerabilities of their property.
Consider these additions:
- Additional open/close sensors for every exterior door and potentially vulnerable windows.
- More motion sensors to cover wider areas or specific hallways.
- Water leak sensors for areas prone to flooding.
By strategically adding devices, you can create a robust and personalized home monitoring solution with SmartThings.
Exploring the Range of SmartThings Devices
For those aiming to broaden their SmartThings ecosystem, Samsung provides a selection of official sensors and devices designed for seamless integration.
Multipurpose Sensor: Versatility in a Small Package
Primarily functioning as an open/close sensor for doors and windows, the SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor offers expanded capabilities. It can also measure temperature and detect vibration, orientation, and angle.
Motion Sensor: Detecting Movement with Ease
The SmartThings Motion Sensor is a compact device ideal for monitoring movement in specific areas. Consider placing it in restricted rooms or near entry points to track activity.
A key benefit of this sensor is its freestanding design, eliminating the need for wall mounting and allowing for flexible repositioning as needed.
Arrival Sensor: Location-Based Automation
While your smartphone can serve as an Arrival Sensor, the SmartThings Arrival Sensor offers an alternative. It avoids continuous GPS usage, conserving your phone’s battery life.
This small dongle attaches to your keys and sends notifications when it enters or leaves the range of your SmartThings hub.
Water Leak Sensor: Proactive Leak Detection
The SmartThings Water Leak Sensor is a potentially invaluable device. Though not needed constantly, it can prevent significant damage by alerting you to leaks.
Position it near appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, or in bathrooms to receive timely notifications of potential water leaks.
Outlet: Transforming Standard Appliances
Unlike other SmartThings devices, the SmartThings Outlet doesn’t rely on battery power. It allows remote control of any plugged-in appliance, effectively converting it into a smart device.
Automation possibilities include controlling lamps based on sensor triggers, such as door openings or room entry.
SmartCam: Integrated Security and Monitoring
The SmartCam, a Samsung product, is fully compatible with the SmartThings platform, despite not being officially listed within the core lineup.
Integration allows for features like automatic recording initiation upon motion detection. Furthermore, compatibility extends to third-party devices, including Philips Hue bulbs and Belkin WeMo devices.
Expanding Your SmartThings Network: Adding New Devices
Integrating additional sensors into an existing SmartThings configuration is a straightforward process. The following steps outline how to seamlessly expand your smart home ecosystem.
Begin by launching the SmartThings application on your mobile device. Navigate to the "My Home" tab, which is typically located at the bottom of the screen.
Tap the "+" icon situated in the upper-right corner of the screen to initiate the device addition process.
From the subsequent pop-up menu, select the option labeled "Add a Thing."
If you are incorporating a device from a manufacturer other than SmartThings, consult our dedicated guide for adding third-party devices. Otherwise, choose "Connect Now" to proceed with a SmartThings-branded sensor or device.
The SmartThings app will automatically commence a search for available sensors and devices.
Preparation of your new devices for pairing is the next crucial step. Remove the back plate from the sensor, along with the mounting template and the battery tab. Pairing will initiate automatically once these steps are completed.
For smart outlets, simply pressing the designated button on the front will begin the pairing sequence, provided the outlet is plugged in.
Upon successful pairing, the application will display a confirmation message indicating the device has been found. Select "Next" to continue.
The following screen allows you to assign a custom name to the sensor and designate its location within a specific room.
Utilizing rooms is particularly beneficial when managing multiple sensors and devices within the same area. This facilitates easier monitoring and the creation of room-specific automation routines.
Press "Done" and then "Next" to finalize the setup for the sensor. Subsequently, mount the sensor using either screws or the provided 3M adhesive pads.
With these steps completed, your new sensors and devices are fully integrated and will begin monitoring your home environment. The SmartThings app’s Smart Home Monitor provides continuous access to your system’s status.