A family away button should not guess whether everyone has left
A clearly labeled away button can be easier to trust than a scene that guesses occupancy from one event. Keep the first version to agreed lighting and compatible comfort actions, with exclusions for pets, essential equipment and anyone still at home.
Define the intended result
Write the lights and settings that should change. A door closing or a lock event does not prove the home is empty, so include a deliberate resident action when the consequence of an incorrect assumption would be inconvenient.
Keep exceptions separate
Exclude refrigeration, network and any equipment that should stay available. Thermostat changes need compatible controls and agreed operating boundaries; a whole-home label should never become permission to switch every outlet off together.
Ask for a reversible scene
Request a small away scene with an obvious cancel or home action. Test it while someone intentionally remains inside, so the household understands exactly what changes and how to restore ordinary use.
Before you buy
- Use deliberate activation
- Write protected-load exclusions
- Test cancel and restore