Shelly 3EM Installation

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on installing the Shelly 3EM energy monitor and integrating it with Home Assistant. By following these instructions, you'll be able to track energy usage and set up utility meters on your dashboard while minimizing common issues like sensor glitches.

Step 1: Understand the Shelly 3EM

• Familiarize yourself with what the Shelly 3EM does. It monitors energy consumption across three phases.
• Ensure you have the necessary tools and materials, including circuit breakers and split current transformers.

Step 2: Assess Your Installation Location

• Identify where to install the Shelly 3EM:
  • Consider your miniature circuit breaker switchboard.
  • Ensure there's enough space in your meter box for the device.

Step 3: Prewire the Leads

• Before installation, prewire the leads to the Shelly 3EM:
  • Strip the wire ends and connect them to the appropriate terminals.
  • Ensure to protect the circuit with the correct circuit breaker to prevent overload.

Step 4: Install the Split Current Transformer

• Use a split current transformer rated for 120A:
  • Place the transformer around the main wires feeding your load.
  • Ensure the transformer is securely attached and positioned to measure accurately.

Step 5: Install the Shelly 3EM in the Distribution Box

• Carefully mount the Shelly 3EM in the distribution box:
  • Connect the prewired leads to the corresponding terminals on the device.
  • Double-check all connections for safety.

Step 6: Configure Home Assistant Integration

• Set up the Shelly integration in Home Assistant:
  • Go to the integrations page and search for Shelly.
  • Follow the prompts to connect the Shelly 3EM to your Home Assistant instance.

Step 7: Disable Unused Entities

• Navigate to the entities section in Home Assistant:
  • Disable any entities you don't need to simplify your dashboard.
  • This will help in managing the data displayed.

Step 8: Understand Power vs. Energy Sensors

• Recognize the difference between power sensors and energy sensors:
  • Power sensors measure instant consumption (in Watts).
  • Energy sensors track total usage over time (in kilowatt-hours).

Step 9: Install Visual Studio Code

• Download and install Visual Studio Code (VSCode):
  • This tool will assist in editing your configuration files for Home Assistant.

Step 10: Set Up Configuration Files

• Create and edit your Home Assistant configuration files:
  • Add utility meter and template sensor configurations.
  • Example configuration for utility meter:

    utility_meter:
      daily_energy:
        source: sensor.your_energy_sensor
        cycle: daily
    

Step 11: Implement Availability Template

• Create an availability template to prevent glitching:
  • This will ensure your utility meters report correctly.
  • Example availability template:

    template:
      - sensor:
          - name: "Utility Meter"
            state: >
              {{ is_state('sensor.your_energy_sensor', 'available') }}
    

Step 12: Troubleshoot Utility Meter Issues

• If your utility meters don't display correctly:
  • Check your Home Assistant logs for errors.
  • Ensure all sensors are properly configured and connected.

Step 13: Use Mini Graph Cards

• Enhance your dashboard with mini graph cards:
  • This provides a visual representation of your energy usage.
  • Configure mini graph cards in your Home Assistant dashboard settings.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully install and configure the Shelly 3EM with Home Assistant. You'll be able to monitor your energy consumption effectively while avoiding common pitfalls. For further customization, consider exploring additional features like multiple tariffs or time of day settings from the provided blog link. Happy monitoring!