We’ve brought all the steps together in this easy smart light switch installation guide, so you can get to work upgrading your home’s IQ.īefore you get started, turn off the power to the switch you’re going to work on. If you’re already a DIY enthusiast, the installation should be quick and simple. Installing a smart light switch is something even a total novice can do with some caution and the right tools. When installing dimmers or smart dimmers, avoid CFL bulbs as they are not compatible with a lot of dimmers even though the bulbs say “dimmable.” Smart light switches fall in the middle of the cost range, being less expensive than a fleet of individual bulbs and a bit pricier than smart plugs. While smart switches take a little more effort to install, they keep outlets available and can control more than one bulb. Their main disadvantages are that they stick out of the wall in ways that can be inconvenient or unattractive, you need one for every device you want to remotely control, and they might not provide the amount of power your appliance may need. These plugs go right into your standard electrical outlet and provide you with remote controllability of the appliance that you plug into that outlet. Smart plugs are the cheapest way to experiment if you’re not sure home automation is for you. The downside to smart bulbs is that they are extremely expensive to implement throughout your whole house, and even one well-lit room can put a serious dent in your budget.
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You can simply screw a smart bulb into a lamp or other lighting fixture, download and configure an app, then start controlling it with your phone.
#SMART SWITCH LIGHT BLUETOOTH#
The bulbs themselves have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth tech that allows the bulbs to communicate with your phone or tablet without having to set up a hub. Smart bulbs are a good way to test out the concept of smart lighting. You’ve probably already done a bit of research on the different ways you can introduce smart automation to your lighting and other appliances, but it helps to understand where smart switches fall in the spectrum of ease, cost, capabilities, and permanence. Be sure to double-check that the switches you select have the connection capabilities you’re looking for before you purchase. Today’s best smart light switches go a step further and even work via verbal command thanks to compatibility with home automation systems and apps. A smart dimmer switch lets you adjust the brightness of lights from an app on your phone and even set custom schedules so lights come on when you need them and turn off when you don’t. Some smart switches are even capable of controlling ceiling fans and fireplaces, but the most common ones you’ll see are for lighting control. What is a Wi-Fi light switch? It is a home automation device that uses Wi-Fi signals to communicate between the device (i.e. Home automation devices can use Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, ZigBee, or other wireless communication for transmitting and receiving. What Is a Smart Light Switch?Ī smart switch is a home automation device that connects to your home network for remote controllability. With this comprehensive smart light switch installation guide, we’ll get you started with everything you need to know about this simple yet effective upgrade. Smart light switches let you dip your toes in the water and see how much impact home automation can have, without making a significant time or cash investment.
#SMART SWITCH LIGHT INSTALL#
One of the most beginner-friendly ways to update your home’s automation capabilities is to install a smart light switch or two. You can start with determining your Wi-Fi network capabilities and your willingness to work with electrical wiring devices. Turning your run-of-the-mill house into a smart home can be a process with many elements to consider. How to Wire and Install a Smart Light Switch