Automated detection of washer/dryer operation/fault condition

[0014]The fast growing Internet of Things (“IoT”) has prompted many manufacturers to create expensive new appliances and items that incorporate communication components into everyday appliances such as refrigerators, clothes washing and drying machines, toasters, and many more items. The cost to replace such an appliance, particularly with one that is capable of communicating on the IoT, can be high. And in many instances, consumers have an existing appliance that functions properly but simply is not connected to the IoT. As such, a more cost effective solution is needed.

[0015]In the case of a functioning clothes washing machine and clothes drying machine, an entirely new set connected to the IoT can cost thousands of dollars. A solution for communicating with a clothes washing machine or clothes drying machine can include a much less expensive add-on component including a micro-electro-mechanical system (“MEMS”) sensor, a transmitter, and a battery, the cost of which can be less than