Getting Started with Smart Lighting: My Experience and Tips

General
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I’ve recently taken the plunge into the world of smart home automation, and it’s been an exciting journey! My first project was setting up smart lighting throughout my home, and I wanted to share my experiences and some tips for anyone looking to do the same.

Why Smart Lighting?
I’ve always loved the idea of being able to control my lights from my phone, especially for those late-night trips to the bathroom or adjusting the ambiance for a movie night. Plus, the energy savings and convenience are huge bonuses!

My Setup
I decided to go with a mix of GE Z-Wave Plus switches and Fibaro water sensors. The Z-Wave Plus technology seemed like a solid choice for reliability and range. I also picked up a couple of Wyze locks for added security, though I’m still on the fence about mixing Z-Wave and Zigbee devices.

Challenges and Solutions

  1. Mesh Network Strength: Installing 20 Z-Wave Plus repeaters in my 1400 sq ft bungalow was a bit overwhelming, but it paid off. The mesh network is rock solid now, and I haven’t had any connectivity issues.
  2. Device Compatibility: I was worried about mixing Z-Wave and Zigbee, but so far, everything works seamlessly. The Wyze locks integrate perfectly with my existing setup.
  3. Presence Detection: I’ve been using IFTTT for geofencing and WiFi presence detection. It’s been surprisingly reliable, and I haven’t had any issues with false triggers.

Tips for Newbies

  • Start Small: Don’t dive into a full home overhaul right away. Start with one room and gradually expand.
  • Plan Your Network: Invest in quality repeaters and plan their placement carefully to avoid dead zones.
  • Read Reviews: Take the time to read through user reviews and forums before making purchases. It’s saved me from a few potential headaches.

Looking Ahead
I’m really excited about the possibilities with smart lighting. I’m thinking of adding some color-changing bulbs for festive occasions and maybe integrating some motion sensors for even more convenience.

If anyone has tips or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! Happy automating everyone! :rocket: