Smart Switches
As time continues to move forward, technology continues to advance. In this day and age, people are looking to imbue their homes with said technology. Through this article we're going to be looking at a certain aspect of the house (the light switch) and how it can be further developed into the smart switch. The big question is which smart switch should you buy? Let's take a look at the different factors that will end up affecting the answer to this question.
Most of these new and advanced switches communicate with the house's network over WiFi or a hub. Many people are drawn to the WiFi option, though adding too many devices to one router results in slower connection. WiFi switches also mean you'll need a white neutral wire in your switch box, which some older homes don't have. This means that if a lot of switches are going to be replaced in your home, looking at the hub option might be the better choice.
Although all smart switches do have to connect to a voice assistant, make sure that you still install switches which all belong to the same brand. This way you can operate all of them through one app. If a light is controlled by multiple switches, make sure to check the manufacturer's website or the box in order to make sure you are correctly wiring the switches. In cases like these, it's better to be safe than sorry. If you're not sure about what you're doing, look to a professional for help.
When it comes to the price of a smart switch, there are affordable two-packs that operate off WiFi for $30 on Amazon. Lutron Caseta, a popular smart switch brand, runs for about $50 per switch. Of course, the fancier you get, the more expensive it will be. For instance, Brilliant Control not only operates your light switches but also connects with your thermostat, speakers, doorbell, and more. This brand, with its built-in voice assistant, runs for about $300.
As a final recommendation, we suggest you start slow when it comes to smart technology in general. Implementing smart switches on your most used light is a good first step to take. Trying to completely renovate your home with new technology is not only costly but also confusing. There's also the chance that you end up disliking the smart devices you've installed, so only having to remove one installation is much easier than if your whole house has already been “upgraded.”
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