When we think of domotizing our house, the first thing that comes to mind is the potential for convenience and ease. Who hasn’t dreamed of automating daily tasks and controlling devices from their mobile phones? The promise is clear: to enhance our lives. However, the journey from aspiration to implementation can be riddled with unexpected challenges that may thwart even the best-laid plans.
A vivid example is explored in our series, Domotize or Die in the Attempt, available on the Xataka YouTube channel. In this episode, Ana Boria faces a pressing challenge: preparing her home for automation before going on her honeymoon. The focus is on two Xiaomi Smart Pet Food Feeders, although they are just a part of the tech adventure. Ana also attempts to install a presence sensor on the terrace and a plant irrigation system, all while her partner, Angela Blanco, observes and comments. Will Ana succeed in her mission?
A Race Against Time: Leaving the House Technologically Enhanced Before Going on a Trip
One of the standout features of the smart feeders is their ability to accurately weigh and dispense the right amount of food. This is particularly beneficial for those living with multiple pets who require different servings. “The right feeder is always for the cat, and the one on the left is for the dog,” Ana explains. “Our job is done once they adapt to this schedule of feeding every few hours.”
Initially, everything went smoothly after the unboxing. After removing the feeders from their boxes and configuring them in the living room, they were moved to their designated spots. However, complications soon arose: “No, it’s restarting, but it won’t enter Wi-Fi mode. I followed the manual to the letter, and yet something’s wrong,” Ana lamented. Fortunately, the solution was just around the corner.
Next, the action shifted to the terrace where installing a motion sensor seemed straightforward. In reality, it proved more complicated. “There’s only one plug out here on the terrace, which is behind the column,” Ana noted. While relocating the plug was an option, it wasn’t as easy as it seemed. The terrace attracts a lot of foot traffic during the summer, leading Ana to emphasize the need for precise limitations on the sensor’s detection to avoid false alerts.
Angela lightened the mood with her commentary: “What would this series be if Ana got everything right on the first try?” With humor keeping spirits high, they returned to the terrace to refine the irrigation system. Ana found herself crunching numbers to determine how frequently it should operate, yet once again, things didn’t go as planned. She realized she had to move the pump to make it effective.
As the anticipated trip approached, Ana spent a week at her family’s house, continuing to work on preparations. She hinted at a detail that leaves the audience on edge: “There’s good news and bad news.” To uncover the full story, click to find out more in the video. The central question remains: Did she manage to get her home fully automated before her honeymoon? We invite you to delve into the video and share your experiences in the comments, both here and on YouTube.
Images | Xataka
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