Hi everyone,
I’m renovating my apartment and trying to decide between installing smart wall switches or using smart relays (Box Control) behind the existing switches.
From what I understand, a relay seems to be a good option if I want to:
- Keep the original switch design.
- Add smart control without changing the wall plate.
- Integrate lighting into home automation.
- Upgrade an existing house with minimal changes.
I found this article explaining how Box Control works and when it makes sense to use one:
For those who have installed Aqara relays:
- Why did you choose a relay instead of a smart switch?
- Has it been reliable?
- Any installation tips for older houses?
I’d appreciate any advice before starting my project.
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I have 1 relay T2. The T2 is much bigger than T1 (single channel) so it’s harder to install a dumb switch, because if you renovate an older building, sometimes the hole is really shallow. But in my case, I don’t mind, because I wanted to get rid of a physical switch in this place to make wall flat (to hang a painting).
If you have two channels and not much space for wires/relays then I really recommend just using an H2 switch.
It’s been 2 years and no complaints, it’s been working without an issue.
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I personally will go to change all switches if you renovate.y personally changed them all with touch switches witch are matter/wifi and they do not need an app to can add them to HomeKit.i chose this type of switches because they are flat and great in terms of design with make then to not be so visible outside the wall.i never liked relays or bulbs this is why I opt for changing them all and they works great also I can use them on automations too.the only downside was that I had to add an neutral cable but since I know how for me personally was easy to do it.
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