Automated technology has thrived in our imagination for years. Thanks to modern-day advancements, home automation is no longer confined to Sci-Fi movies. Smart hubs have the ability to control several aspects of your home’s functions, including your lights. This article discusses how you can integrate smart lighting into your home and begin your journey to complete smart home automation.
What Is Smart Lighting?
Smart lighting solutions have been used in commercial building systems for years and only recently have made their way to residential homes. Experts originally created these systems to maximize efficiency and lower energy consumption. The same concept remains in residential systems. However, it’s impossible to deny that most people use many smart vision lights for convenience and enhanced décor.
There are two main types of smart lighting systems available to consumers. You can purchase smart bulbs, which are WiFi or Bluetooth enabled LED lights that connect to your phone or a hub, or you can install a smart light switch.
5 Lighting Tips for Your Enchanted Home
Tip 1: Choose Between Smart Switches and Smart bulbs
There is no denying the cool factor of smart bulbs. Smart bulbs can change color, are dimmable, and are compatible with any standard A19 socket. LED smart lighting can create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. In addition, these bulbs are wireless; they are controlled by a WiFi-enabled hub, or they can connect to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth.
Despite these features, there are some drawbacks. The hubs used to control these systems can be expensive while the basic bulbs can be $15-$20 a piece. If you plan on switching your entire home to smart bulbs, this can become an extravagant upgrade.
Smart light switches for homes is an alternative you may want to consider if your budget simply can’t afford an army of smart bulbs. You might also consider a smart switch if your home has untraditional sockets, or you have multiple lights connected to a single switch. Like smart bulbs, you can control smart switches with Bluetooth or a hub. Moreover, you can use a physical button to do that.
Tip 2: Establish Your Priorities
Before choosing your system, you should consider which features are most important to you. Color-adjustment, clarity, hub vs. Bluetooth and price are important components of your smart light purchase. Also, some smart bulbs may have additional conveniences built-in, such as motion sensors, speakers, and even security cameras. The best, feature-packed WiFi systems will be much more expensive than basic Bluetooth lights.
Tip 3: Check Minimal Requirements
There are a few requirements that you should consider before making your final purchase. If you are thinking about smart bulbs, remember that they will only fit in standard A19 sockets. Many smart bulbs will also require a WiFi connection and the additional purchase of a hub.
If you’re considering the smart switches, you must properly hard-wire them into your current switch box. Unfortunately, not all homes are compatible with smart switches. These switches require a neutral wire for installation. Newer homes should have this feature wired in. However, older homes may not. The actual installation of this product isn’t difficult, though you do need to practice some DIY skills.
Tip 4: Choose Your Smart Lighting System
There are several products available for smart bulbs and switches. If your main concern is compatibility for future home automation, customization, and quality of lighting, consider the Phillips Hue. The Phillips Hue starter pack includes two smart LED bulbs and the hub. If the starter pack and bulbs don’t fit into your budget, Phillips offers a less expensive dimmer switch that does not require the full purchase of the hub and components.
The LG smart lighting system also offers several forms of compatibility, including a simple Bluetooth connection. The C bulb by GE life also offers a Bluetooth compatible solution, though it currently offers no additional hub features.
The Belkin WeMo Light Switch is a great option if you’re hoping to pay less than the Phillips Hue but need hub compatibility. Although the WeMo is not compatible with Siri, you can connect it to the If This Then That (ITTT) system and the Nest system. Both hubs offer a wide range of interesting customizations and the option to upgrade other home automation systems in the future.
Tip 5: Expand Your Smart System
Smart lighting in itself is cool, but the bigger picture is astounding. The ideal smart home has automated temperature control, security, entertainment, and lighting that one can control from a single hub. Alexa and Siri have become integral parts of these systems, although the Nest and Smart Things are popular as well.
When considering your smart lighting system, remember this bigger picture. Products like the Phillips Hue and the Belkin WeMo can be the first step in setting up this fully automated system. For example, the Phillips Hue is compatible with the Nest, which can link the lights with the security system and the self-learning thermostat.
When you leave the house, your lighting will automatically shut off based on your self-learning thermostat’s settings. Should someone enter your house, the Nest camera will automatically trigger the lighting system. Each component of the automated system works in perfect harmony, creating a secure, efficient smart home.
Summing It Up
Smart lighting can be an excellent addition to your smart home. Before purchasing a smart light system, you should decide if a smart bulb or switch is the best option. For this, consider your preferences, priorities, and the compatibility of your home. There are several products that stand out among smart light systems, such as the Phillips Hue, LG smart lighting system, C by GE Life, and the Belkin WeMo.
Once you’ve installed the smart lights, you can connect it to a central hub where several automated accessories can help you improve your home’s smart system. Don’t wait for this technology to pass by. Make the jump to a perfectly enchanted smart home and purchase your smart lights today.
