Hello, everyone! I’m reaching out to gather insights and advice for my upcoming smart lighting project in a new build. This is an exciting venture, and I want to ensure I make the right choices for longevity, functionality, and ease of use. Here’s a bit about my situation and what I’m hoping to achieve:
Project Overview
- House Size: Approximately 4,500 sq ft across four levels.
- Lighting Needs: Around 80 dimmers and switches, including 3-ways and potential remotes.
- Fixture Types: A mix of integrated LED recessed lights (Lightolier Lytecaster) and decorative fixtures, with some screw-base bulbs.
- Design Goals: Minimalist aesthetics, reliable performance, and compatibility with both Triac and ELV dimming.
Key Considerations
- Dimming Compatibility: I’m exploring the best dimming options for my LED recessed lights and decorative fixtures. From what I’ve gathered, ELV dimmers might offer smoother performance, but I’m concerned about potential lifespan impacts on LED drivers.
- Wireless Controls: While I love the idea of wireless remotes, I’m cautious about relying solely on wireless solutions due to potential interference or connectivity issues. I’m open to a hybrid approach where possible.
- Future-Proofing: I want a system that can adapt as technology evolves, without requiring frequent overhauls. Compatibility with smart home ecosystems like Hubitat is a must.
- User Experience: The system should be intuitive for my family, including kids and elderly visitors. I’m considering touch-sensitive switches or simple, elegant designs that blend seamlessly into the architecture.
- Energy Efficiency: With sustainability in mind, I’m exploring options for energy monitoring and optimizing lighting schedules to reduce consumption.
Questions for the Community
- Dimmer Recommendations: Are there specific dimmer models that excel with integrated LED recessed lights and decorative fixtures? I’m particularly interested in hearing about real-world experiences with ELV vs. Triac dimmers.
- Wireless vs. Wired: How reliable have wireless lighting control systems been in your experiences? Are there scenarios where wired solutions are preferable despite the initial installation effort?
- Smart Integration: How seamless is the integration of lighting controls with smart hubs like Hubitat? Are there any gotchas or hidden complexities I should be aware of?
- Aesthetic Choices: What have you found to be the best balance between functionality and aesthetics? Are there particular switch styles or finishes that stand out for modern builds?
Desired Outcomes
- A lighting system that’s as much a joy to use as it is a functional necessity.
- Solutions that offer flexibility and scalability, allowing me to expand or modify the system as needed.
- Insights into potential pitfalls and how to avoid them, ensuring a smooth installation and trouble-free operation.
I’m eager to hear your thoughts, recommendations, and any war stories that might help me navigate this exciting but complex project. Let’s build something amazing together!
Best regards,
Casey