As a homeowner passionate about sustainability, I’ve been exploring ways to integrate smart lighting with energy efficiency. My journey began with Philips Hue bulbs, which I’ve found to be reliable and versatile. However, I’ve recently come across the Sylvania Lightify + strips, which caught my attention due to their Zigbee compatibility and long battery life claims. I was excited to try them out, but quickly realized they don’t support the feature I most need: remembering their last state during power outages. This is crucial for me, as I don’t want lights turning back on at full brightness during the night if the power goes out.
After some research, I discovered that the Philips Hue strips do offer this feature, but they come at a premium price. I decided to give them a try, and I must say, they’ve exceeded my expectations. The ability to set custom scenes and have them remember their last state is a game-changer for my home automation setup.
I’m also experimenting with integrating these lights with my SmartThings hub. While there’s a learning curve, the possibilities for automation are endless. For instance, I’ve set up a routine where my outdoor lights dim to 50% at sunset, ensuring they’re bright enough for safety without being overly harsh. This feature is particularly helpful for being considerate of my neighbors.
If you’re in the market for smart lighting, I highly recommend exploring your options. Whether it’s Hue, Sylvania, or another brand, there’s something out there for every budget and need. Happy automating! 