Dropdown Helper State Machine

Configuration
#1

Hi all

I am looking for the best way to set a dropdown helper to a particular state based on a sensor’s value Multiple automations seems messy to me and it feels like there must be a better way.

Essentially, I have a helper called input_select.cabin_fireplace_state which I am going to use as a state machine to store the state of my fireplace (Off/On/Low Heat/High Heat). This will be based on the wattage recorded by another sensor (A smart plug).

>2w < 800w - On
>800w < 1800w - Low Heat
> 1800w - High Heat

I will then have templated switches to control the different modes and lock/unlock options depending on what is possible from a particular state. For example, the fireplace must transition from Off to On before either heat option is available.

#2

Hmm, actually. Maybe a template sensor may be better than using a helper

#3

Think im getting close. My syntax is slightly off though. Wondering if anyone could help:

  - platform: template
    sensors:
      cabin_fireplace_state:
        friendly_name: "Cabin Fireplace State"
        value_template: >-
        {% if states('sensor.cabin_fireplace_energy_power') < 2 %}
          {{ "Off" }}
        {% elif states('sensor.cabin_fireplace_energy_power') > 2 and states('sensor.cabin_fireplace_energy_power') < 800 %}
          {{ "On" }}
        {% elif states('sensor.cabin_fireplace_energy_power') > 800 and states('sensor.cabin_fireplace_energy_power') < 1800 %}
          {{ "Low Heat") }}
        {% elif states('sensor.cabin_fireplace_energy_power') > 1800 %}
          {{ "High Heat" }}
        {% endif %}
#4 
  - platform: template
    sensors:
      cabin_fireplace_state:
        friendly_name: "Cabin Fireplace State"
        value_template: >-
          {% set p = states('sensor.cabin_fireplace_energy_power') | float(0) %}
          {% if p < 2 %} Off
          {% elif 2 < p < 800 %} On
          {% elif 800 < p < 1800 %} Low Heat
          {% else %} High Heat
          {% endif %}

In your example, it overlooks to convert the sensor’s state value, which is a string, into a number. Therefore every test that compares a string to a number will fail.

#5

Thanks very much, that was what I was missing. (Also thanks for tidying my template on to less lines.)

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#6

You’re welcome!

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