
Automating Kitchen Lights with an Aqara Vibration Sensor
Smart home technology continues to make everyday tasks more convenient, and one of my latest additions has been the Aqara Vibration Sensor. This small yet powerful device is perfect for automating various tasks around the house. In this blog post, I’ll share how I’ve used it to improve my kitchen lighting experience.
The Problem: Hands Full, Lights Off
When preparing food in the kitchen, I often find my hands covered in flour, oil, or other ingredients. Reaching for a light switch or voice assistant can be inconvenient or even messy. That’s why I wanted a hands-free solution to turn on the under-cabinet lights when I start cooking.
The Solution: Aqara Vibration Sensor
I installed an Aqara Vibration Sensor underneath my kitchen countertop. This sensor detects vibrations or movement, making it an ideal trigger for my smart home lighting setup.
How It Works:
- The Aqara Vibration Sensor is mounted discreetly under the countertop.
- When I begin chopping, mixing, or working on the countertop, the sensor detects the vibrations.
- The sensor sends a signal to Home Assistant, which then triggers the under-cabinet lights to turn on automatically.
- After a set period of inactivity, the lights turn off to save energy.
Benefits of This Setup
- Hands-Free Convenience – No need to touch switches or use voice commands.
- Improved Visibility – Instant lighting exactly when and where it’s needed.
- Energy Efficient – Lights only turn on when the countertop is in use.
- Discreet and Reliable – The sensor is hidden and operates seamlessly in the background.
Expanding the Idea
This same concept can be applied in various other scenarios:
- Bathroom mirror lighting – Turn on lights when using the sink.
- Desk lighting – Detect activity and illuminate a workspace.
- Security alerts – Detect vibrations on doors or windows for extra security.
Final Thoughts
The Aqara Vibration Sensor is a great addition to any smart home, providing effortless automation with minimal setup. By integrating it with Home Assistant, I’ve created a simple yet effective way to enhance my kitchen experience. If you’re looking for a hands-free way to control your kitchen lights, this could be the perfect solution!