Hi everyone! I recently upgraded my home lighting to a smart system on a budget and wanted to share the steps:
Choose affordable smart bulbs: Brands like Wyze or Sengled are great budget options. Set up a smart hub (optional): If you’re going for a cohesive ecosystem, consider hubs like Alexa or Google Home. Install and connect: Replace your old bulbs, connect them to your Wi-Fi, and use the corresponding app for setup. Automate: Use routines or schedules for energy-saving and convenience. Let me know if you’ve tried something similar or have any questions!
I don’t underatand how any schedule would save energy over my current method of simply turning on lights when I’m in a dark room and turning them off when I leave.
Surely a schedule would have them on more. Do you leave lights on in empty rooms?
If you’re forgetful, smart bulbs can save money by turning themselves off after a timer expires or on a schedule. Or in my case, I have cats that have a litter box room and won’t use it in the dark. A smart bulb and a motion detector mean I don’t have to run a bespoke fluorescent bulb 24/7 to light the room (because that’s cheaper than replacing the fixture)
A smart bulb uses a small amount of power even when off becauae it stays wifi connected.
You don’t need a smart bulb to have a motion sensor. There are many inexpensive options that will use less power than a smart bulb.
If the goal is saving energy smart bulbs are almost never the best choice
Lots of people want adjacent room lights or beyond to be on.
I turn all the lights in my house on at night, despite the savings loss, because I just prefer being able to see into other rooms. (I also use 100w-equivalent bulbs, to really boost the brightness).
Some people have fears, rational or irrational, about the dark. Children, people paranoid about someone breaking in, etc.
Some people feel pets should be able to see where they’re going.
Sure but your goal is illumination not power savings.