There are many features to consider before investing in a smart lighting switch, such as installation and functionality. Also, the switch must be compatible with a home’s wiring, network connection, and the wattage of the light fixtures.
Table of Contents
Type
Traditional light switches can perform various functions, and smart switches must perform the same and offer a few additional features. Consider the lighting needs in each room when choosing a type of switch. The following are common types:
- 1-way (or single-pole) switches have two terminals that turn one circuit on or off. This type of switch will not work for lights controlled from multiple locations, such as a hall light with a switch at the bottom and another at the top of the stairs.
- 3-way switches feature three locations where wires connect: two at the switches and one at the light fixture itself. A 3-way switch controls two switches—one at the top and another at the bottom—to operate a stairway light. A smart 3-way switch can replace one of the two regular 3-way switches, allowing the user to control the stairway light from a smart device.
- 4-way switches have one more wiring connection than a 3-way switch. Three individual light switches will all operate the same light. An example might be a home with three entrances, with each entry having a switch that controls a living room light. A 4-way smart switch can replace one of the existing three wall switches; there’s no need to replace more than one of the switches.
- Plug-in switches allow smart technology to be added to lamps and other lighting fixtures that connect to a standard 115-volt outlet. When a lamp is plugged into the switch, the lighting can be adjusted by connecting the device via Bluetooth to a smartphone, Alexa, or a smart -ome system.
Network and Connectivity
Most smart light switches require Wi-Fi to sync with popular smart-home systems, such as Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. By syncing with a smart-home system, users can control the switch and the other connected smart-home components (such as security cameras and thermostats).
Most smart switches connect with a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi home network; others connect with either a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz network. However, some don’t connect to a 5 GHz network, so know the network’s capacity before buying. Many use a smart technology known as “Zigbee.” Zigbee is the framework behind smart devices like Amazon Echo, Philips Hue, IKEA Tradfri, and Homey, serving as a communication protocol that enables these devices to connect and interact in a smart-home system.
Typically, a router features a label on the back that says whether it’s a 2.4 GHz or a 5 GHz system. If not, consult the owner’s manual or check the manufacturer’s website to determine the router’s capacity.
Light Bulb Compatibility
Smart switches work with standard, ordinary bulbs, with the caveat of being dimmer switches. To dim a bulb, the bulb itself must be dimmable.
Smart switches can control most smart bulbs; however, depending on the switch, all of the bulb’s functions may not be available. For example, if a smart bulb features color-changing hues, controlling those colors may not be possible with a smart switch.
The user must control the bulb’s special effects through a separate app that coordinates with the bulb. Smart bulbs include Philips Hue, Wyze, and Sengled Smart bulbs.
Wattage Rating
Like light bulbs, the switches that control them have a wattage rating. Wattage measures the amount of electricity flowing through the circuit per hour. If the light fixture uses a 60-watt bulb, the switch should be rated at least 60 watts.
For multibulb fixtures, the wattage rating is all the bulbs added together. Purchasing a smart switch with a matching (or higher) wattage rating is essential to be compatible with the multibulb fixture. Typically, switches have 150-, 300-, 600-, and 1,000-watt ratings.
Control Style
Smart switches provide the user with greater lighting control and can be controlled in a few different ways. These devices offer voice control with Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, and other Bluetooth and Wi-Fi software. Some require smart-home hubs, while others work through a smartphone.
Mobile apps also make remote control capability possible, allowing users to control the switch from virtually anywhere. If the goal is for the light to come on when someone walks into the room, choose one with motion sensors.
Functionality
Dimmable smart switches allow the user to dim the light remotely. These are beneficial for saving energy by not always running the light at full illumination. But there’s a catch: For a smart switch to dim a bulb, it must be dimmer enabled. Attempting to dim a nondimmable bulb could destroy the bulb or reduce its useful life.
Some smart switches have a sensor that detects motion when someone enters the room and automatically turns on the corresponding light. Depending on the app, it may also be possible to configure the switch to turn the light off after a few minutes of inactivity.
Installation
Worthington says that “smart switches can be more challenging to install compared to regular switches, primarily due to their additional features.” He explains that it’s important to hire a qualified electrician “who has the expertise to ensure proper installation, compliance with local electrical codes, and the seamless integration of smart switches into your home.”
Installing a smart switch is no more difficult than replacing a standard light switch, so experienced DIYers can handle it themselves. Before tackling the project, check with the local building authority. In some communities, DIYers are not permitted to replace electrical switches, and a professional electrician is required.
Before getting started with the installation project, follow the instructions included with the unit, including shutting off the power to the switch before removing the cover.
Smart switches often require a neutral wire, which transmits a small amount of electricity to the switch. This minimal power is necessary for the switch to communicate with the home’s Wi-Fi network. If the wiring in the switch box contains a neutral wire, it can often be found at the back of the box, capped with a wire fastener. If not, an electrician will need to install one.
The second part of installation requires downloading the app associated with the switch and following the prompts to connect it to a smartphone or smart-home system. Smart switches that connect with a central hub, such as Philips Hue switches, require plugging the hub directly into the router and then following the prompts to configure the switches.
FAQs
Like many smart-home components, smart switches can make life easier and help save on energy costs. If this is your first time shopping for a smart switch, it’s common to have a few questions. Below are answers to some popular questions asked about smart switches.
Q. Are smart switches secure?
Smart switches and smart-home plugs rely on a wireless connection, which makes them vulnerable. Hackers can access vulnerable networks via the radio frequencies that connect wireless devices or combine the processing power of many small devices to launch major cyberattacks. Take action to protect your smart-home Wi-FI network, beginning with a strong encryption method.
Q. Do smart switches use electricity when off?
Yes. Although the light or other device may be turned off, the smart switch receives a small electrical load through the neutral wire.
Q. Do smart switches need a hub?
Possibly. It all depends on the type of switch. Some smart switches connect directly to a smartphone and do not require a hub, also called a controller. Others, such as Zigbee-enabled switches, connect to a Zigbee hub.
The user’s smartphone or other digital devices also connect through the hub to control the lights and other connected components.
Q. How do you install a smart light switch?
Unless you’re familiar with wiring techniques, installing a smart light switch may best be left to an electrician. If you decide to tackle the project, you’ll first turn off the power to the switch, remove the existing switch, and then connect the wires (as shown in the directions that come with the switch).
Once the switch is installed on the wall, you’ll want to download the corresponding app on your digital device and follow the prompts to set up the app and control the switch.
Q. Is there a 4-way smart switch?
Yes. A 4-way smart switch can control all the functions of an existing 4-way switch. The trick is to replace the existing switch on the load side, which is the switch that sends feedback to the other two switches. The instructions included with the 4-way smart switch will help the user determine which switch to replace.