My home is typically not quiet. Lately, with everyone home, it means there’s been even more noise. The kids are supposed to practice their various instruments daily which include piano, saxophone, trombone, and clarinet (not to mention the “bonus” ukulele and drum playing). Boy#2 is on a smoothie kick when means the blender is frequently running. Doors slam as kids run out to play in the yard and then come back in yelling about minor injuries. Conversations (calm and animated) abound.
A year or two ago I purchased an “On Air” sign online. The cord exited from the side so I modified it so instead the cord sticks straight out the back. It was intended to be hung by a chain (included), so I added some slots to be able to screw it directly to the wall. I then removed the plug and pushed the cord through a hole I drilled in the wall. The cord was rewired to an extension cord that plugs in to a simple “smart” plug. From there it was simple to hook it into our Alexa home ecosystem.
Now, when I have a meeting and need the house to be quieter-than-normal, I just say “Alexa, turn on broadcasting” (saying “turn on on air” sounded awkward to me) and the sign illuminates. But beyond that, my family is good enough to recognize the glowing red above my door and refrain from high audio behaviors.
