I recently embarked on a project to streamline the lighting system in my walk-in closet, and I wanted to share my experience in case it helps others facing similar challenges. The goal was to connect lighting in each individual closet unit to a single smart switch for easier control, both via local operation and through hub-based automation. Here’s how I approached it and what I learned along the way.First, I considered the practicality of controlling all outlets with one switch. My primary concern was whether this setup would interfere with the automation rules I had in place, which rely on motion and contact sensors. After some research, I realized that using a smart switch with local control capabilities was the way to go. This allows me to keep the switch in an ‘on’ position for automation while still having the ability to manually turn all lights off when needed—perfect for special cases like deep cleaning or maintenance.Next, I tackled the question of calculating the load on the switch. I found that it’s indeed as straightforward as adding up the wattage of all connected lights. For example, with seven units each using 45 watts, the total load would be 315 watts. Ensuring the switch could handle this load was crucial, and I made sure to choose one rated well above this threshold to avoid any issues down the line.Here’s a quick breakdown of my setup:- Smart Switch Selection: I opted for a switch with a capacity well above my calculated load to ensure reliability.- Wiring: All outlets were wired to the single switch, maintaining the ability for local on/off control.- Automation Integration: I kept the switch in the ‘on’ position to allow my existing motion and contact sensor automations to function seamlessly.The result has been nothing short of fantastic. The system is now more efficient, and having the ability to manually control all lights with a single switch adds a layer of convenience I hadn’t anticipated. It’s satisfying to see everything working harmoniously, especially during those times when I need a quick override of the automation.If anyone has questions about similar setups or needs advice on calculating loads, feel free to reach out! I’d be happy to share more details or troubleshoot any issues you might encounter.