Window Left Open Alert

S.C.O.R.E. → Safety → Security

Overview

Monitoring windows for open status enhances home safety by preventing potential security risks and energy loss. This capability ensures that homeowners receive timely notifications, allowing them to secure their homes effectively.

Benefits

• Prevents unauthorized entry by alerting homeowners when a window is left open.
• Reduces energy costs by notifying users to close windows during HVAC operation.
• Enhances peace of mind, especially for families with children or pets.

Intent

The primary purpose of this capability is to monitor the status of windows in real-time. By sending alerts when a window is left open, it helps maintain security and energy efficiency within the home.

Preconditions

• Window sensors installed on the windows being monitored.
• Home Assistant configured and operational.
• Internet connection available for notifications.
• Home Assistant installed and configured.
• Integration available and authenticated: Zigbee2MQTT.
• Device installed and reachable: Energy Monitoring.

Actors

• Homeowner
• Family member
• Guest

Trigger

The capability is triggered when a window sensor detects that a window is open for a specified duration.

Workflow Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Window Sensor Open] -->|check| B{{Is Window Open?}}
    B -->|Yes| C[Send Alert Notification]
    C --> D[Homeowner Receives Alert]
    B -->|No| E[Exit Monitoring]

Workflow Description

1. Sensor Activation

The window sensor detects that a window has been opened.

2. Open Duration Check

The system checks if the window remains open for the designated time threshold.

3. Alert Notification

If the window is still open, a notification is sent to the homeowner’s device.

4. Homeowner Review

The homeowner receives the alert and can verify the window status.

5. Action Taken

The homeowner can choose to close the window or acknowledge the alert.

Postconditions

After the alert is sent, the system continues to monitor the window’s status until it is closed or the alert is acknowledged.

Optional Enhancements

• Integrate with smart locks to automatically secure windows.
• Add a voice assistant notification for hands-free alerts.
• Include a history log of open windows for security analysis.

Recommended Components

Source Examples

• Home Assistant (platform)