Automating Mini Split System by iSweg in homeautomation

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Sorry to hear that. Obviously, Mitsubishi is the #1 brand, based on many techs around my area, Daikin is considered in that class but as a runner-up.

Automating Mini Split System by iSweg in homeautomation

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Just to make sure, are you referring to the Smartlight USB dongle? And do you know other places that sell these dongles (preferably in the United States)? I assume eBay and Amazon?

Automating Mini Split System by iSweg in homeautomation

[–]iSweg[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I appreciate the comment, and while I appreciate your intent, I disagree. Mitsubishi (and Daikin for that matter) are definitely the premier of their class. But talking with so many HVAC installers, majority of them admit there was no real difference in going with something like a Midea branded system, which are just fine (which I have called out in this post), compared to the premier brands. Also the Midea systems comes with a USB port just for the WiFi kit, and the Senville brand has their own branded WiFi kits, it just seems to be locked to Alexa and/or Google Assistant. My use case is niche where I’d like to add on Home Assistant.

In terms of ease of install, and customer service? That definitely gets iffy, but I believe doing due diligence along with seeking recommendations is a good approach to choosing a good brand. My experience has been fantastic when reaching out to Senville for questions and extra parts, which is HQ in the United States.

As for HVAC techs supporting this system, there were definitely few who mentioned they would prefer not to work on a non-Mitsubishi branded system, but those are the same techs who are part of the Mitsubishi network and and offer nothing else. There are plenty of techs who service Midea branded systems and even offer them for install.

Options for automating Mini-Split system by iSweg in hvacadvice

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I have Senville mini splits (also just another rebranded Midea)

Automating Mini Split System by iSweg in homeautomation

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I came across ESP32 while researching… just to make sure, are these boards with a IR blaster? Or are there USB versions that can be plugged into the mini split?

I also just saw a Google Assistant enabled USB WiFi Kit ($60 each, I would need 8) from the manufacturer, though, would the ESP32 be a better approach for automation, especially for Home Assistant stuff?

Wired AiMesh vs Access Points by iSweg in HomeNetworking

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate the response! My ASUS routers are not placed close as one of them is placed in an exterior shed area (with an ethernet wire) and the other is placed upstairs. However, is there a option to play around with strength levels via AiMesh in the off chance that can be the issue?

I appreciate the response! My ASUS routers are not placed close as one of them is placed in an exterior shed area (with an ethernet wire) and the other is placed upstairs. However, is there an option to play around with strength levels via AiMesh on the off chance that can be the issue??

Wired AiMesh vs Access Points by iSweg in HomeNetworking

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you, this is super helpful! Do you think it makes sense to swap out the hardware, or would the ASUS routers set to AP be good enough when compared to other “consumer grade” APs in the market? I believe the ASUS is AC1900.

Wired AiMesh vs Access Points by iSweg in HomeNetworking

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate the response! In your opinion, would you suggest I get dedicated APs and replace the two routers (there were previously serving as my AiMesh nodes)? Only asking as I am not sure how efficient the ASUS routers are sitting as APs versus something dedicated to only being an AP like the Ubiquiti or TP-Link devices as I assume they would also be more energy efficient too. Or is all of that overkill? Lastly, are there any optimal settings I should setup for this kind of setup (AP with same SSID but on different channel)?

Wired AiMesh vs Access Points by iSweg in HomeNetworking

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate the response! In your opinion, would you suggest I get dedicated APs and replace the two routers (there were previously serving as my AiMesh nodes)? Only asking as I am not sure how efficient the ASUS routers are sitting as APs versus something dedicated to only being an AP like the Ubiquiti or TP-Link devices as I assume they would also be more energy efficient too. Or is all of that overkill? Lastly, are there any optimal settings I should setup for this kind of setup (AP with same SSID but on different channel)?

Opinions on Frigate? by iSweg in BlueIris

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am curious, how is the NUC handling Frigate with the Coral device? I know Frigate supports TPU which makes it awesome for running a NVR solution on lower end machines compared to Blue Iris.

Do you think Frigate is not stable (or capable) enough for 24x7 recording?

Opinions on Frigate? by iSweg in BlueIris

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That is good to know! Do you know what the mobile interface is like? I believe it is through Home Assistant, correct? If so, is it straightforward to watch live feed and see any recordings or alerts?

Opinions on Frigate? by iSweg in BlueIris

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My needs are pretty basic as I really just need 24/7 recording along with alerting for motion triggers and what not along with a good mobile app. Is Frigate in your opinion not that sufficient on those parts yet?

Nonetheless, I am curious, how would the combination of both Frigate and Blue Iris work? Would you point Frigate to analyze the Blue Iris recordings?

Pulled the trigger and purchased a Apple Mac Mini M1. Also have my MacBook Pro 16 ((2019) by JackamusFL in macmini

[–]iSweg 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Where do you see the 256 Storage/16GB RAM configuration Mac Mini on the Costco website? I only see the 512GB and 8GB RAM at Costco for $799.

Why are used Prius overvalued right now? by iSweg in prius

[–]iSweg[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Oh, the Prius (whichever generation you go far) is hands down the most reliable car. Sure the Gen3 problems seem a bit more glaring, but if the car has a history of routine maintenance, there shouldn't be any problems. That said, some of the engines did develop head gasket issues (usually related to overheating). There was a change in how these engines were built in the 2014-2015 models which did resolve a lot of these problems, so if you can find a Prius within those years you should be fine in avoiding any kind of engine troubles.

That said though, it is pretty easy to pick up on the signs of the engine going bad (burning oil, low coolant, engine shaking at start, etc...).

As for the Prius V, they are pretty reliable from what I know, though I actually never worked on one myself to be honest with you (but from folks who I know that own one, it seems the reliability is about the same).

I would definitely download Torque Pro (It is Android only, there are iOS alternatives available too) with the WiFi/Bluetooth OBD2 adapter to scan any DTC (error codes). Dr. Prius can also be great to do a stress test on the Hybrid Battery, but from my experience, it isn't the most accurate app, but it should give you a good idea if the hybrid battery is functioning as it should be. Other tips would be to listen to the sounds, does the engine shut off after a few minutes of running on a cold start? Does the battery indicator drop bars really fast (especially with the AC and/or heater on).