I am building a Catio for my cats, and I want to build it with a door. But I would like to make sure that it's closed obviously. It will be shaded from rain, but I am sure it will get wet during a storm or something.
Anyone have any recommendations?
thank you.
We just finished our catio the beginning of this year. There's only about a 1 foot overhang above the door but it's stayed dry through several hard blowing rains now. I'm using a door sensor from the simplisafe alarm system right now which is not weather proof, but it's been fine. I'm more curious how the batteries will hold up come winter, but if I was you I'd buy a cheap door sensor and replace it if it dies. I just bought a couple of these and they are working very well with hubitat.
Battery im not terribly worried about, I am most likely not going to let the cats out in the winter. but im worried more about blowing rain.. but then I could kind of waterproof it, stick it in a bag and screw that bag to the door..
Depending how your patio is built, if you put the sensor up hight the door and the top framing really should keep it dry. It kinda create a shield for it.
its a catio.. and outside enclosure, like a hen house.. no windows, just screens.
Sensative strips guard?
Ah ok, sorry. Around here a screened in patio is often referred to as a catio. I thought that's what you meant. I just googled and learned that they make actual catios. Had no idea. Looking at them yes you'll want to seal that sensor. You might try a sensor with a very good battery life, like the one I listed above or maybe NYCE (both offer 5 year batteries I believe). And maybe use some silicone to seal them up. You could later get to the battery if you really needed to, might be a bit of a task tho.
I would suggest something like https://www.amazon.com/Z-Wave-Magnets-Window-Sensor-DWZWAVE2-5-ECO/dp/B01N5HB4U5 with an external magnetic reed switch. the reed switch should be able to survive the weather while the actual sensor can be placed where the weather can't destroy it. the only thing would be to make sure the terminals are properly sealed (hot glue gun ftw)
I believe the Sensitive Strips are completely sealed and weatherproof.
Another option is a contact sensor with the ability to sense external contacts. Put the contacts on the door and the electronics up near / on the ceiling.
Look for the old Lowes Iris Version 1 sensor on eBay - that baby comes with a GASKET SEAL.
Not waterpoof, but pretty close - the one hanging on the underside my mailbox with a vibration sensor replacing the reed switch has not complained in years.
Or, take a generic sensor, and saran wrap it before mounting. Yes, you cut off the saran wrap when changing batteries, and replace it.
I put the contact sensors into a box (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Q14K8YT)
and use epoxy coated neodymium magnet instead of the one coming with the sensor.
Have the Samsung Multisensor and Sonoff contact sensor running flawlessly.
Use them for outdoor pool gate, fence (vibration) and driveway gate.
But for your purpose, it might be overdoing.
I've got some Iris V1 sensors for sale if anyone needs some.
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