Window Left Open Reminder

S.C.O.R.E. → Safety → Security

Overview

Many homeowners forget to close windows before leaving, which can lead to security risks and energy loss. This capability notifies residents when windows are left open, providing peace of mind and promoting a more secure home environment.

Benefits

• Enhanced home security by reducing the risk of unauthorized entry through open windows.
• Energy savings by preventing unnecessary heating or cooling when windows are left open.
• Increased awareness of home conditions, allowing residents to address potential weather-related issues.

Intent

The purpose of this capability is to monitor the status of windows in the home and alert residents when they are left open. This ensures that homes remain secure and energy-efficient, especially when residents are away.

Preconditions

• Home Assistant platform installed and configured.
• Window sensors integrated with the Home Assistant system.
• Home Assistant installed and configured.
• Integration available and authenticated: Zigbee2MQTT.
• Device installed and reachable: Energy Monitoring.

Actors

• Homeowner receiving notifications
• Family members ensuring home security
• Guests alerted to open windows

Trigger

The capability is triggered by window sensors detecting that a window has been left open for a specified period.

Workflow Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Window Sensor Detects Open] -->|check| B{{Is Window Open?}}
    B -->|Yes| C[Send Notification to Residents]
    C --> D[Residents Aware of Open Window]
    B -->|No| E[Exit]

Workflow Description

1. Detect Window Status

The window sensor checks the status of the window to determine if it is open.

2. Evaluate Open Status

The system evaluates whether the window has remained open for a predefined duration.

3. Send Alert

If the window is open, a notification is sent to the residents via their preferred communication method.

4. Residents Acknowledge

Residents receive and can acknowledge the notification, confirming they are aware of the open window.

5. Monitor Status Continuously

The system continues to monitor the window status until it is closed.

Postconditions

Residents are informed of any open windows, allowing them to take action to close them and enhance home security.

Optional Enhancements

• Integrate with smart home devices to automatically close windows when leaving home.
• Add voice alerts via smart speakers for immediate notifications.
• Create a summary report of open windows for review at the end of the day.

Recommended Components

Source Examples

• Home Assistant (platform)