Smart switches are a type of smart home device that is increasing in popularity. These switches come in various styles and control the power flowing to an electrical device. This makes them great for homes with more than one person living in them, as they can ensure access to devices is restricted to only those permitted to use them. They provide a convenient way for users to control the power connected to their devices while monitoring their usage.
How Smart Switches Work
Intelligent switches work by connecting to a home’s Wi-Fi network. This allows users to remotely control the power connected to their devices from their bed, a vacation spot, or another room in their home. Intelligent switches are designed to replace an existing light switch.Â
You remove your existing switch, remove the wires from the switch box, and put the wires into the smart switch. You then plug the smart switch into a standard wall outlet. You can then use a compatible app on your smartphone to control your devices. This makes it easy to operate lights, appliances, and more remotely.
Benefits of Automated Switches
1. Convenience
One of the many benefits of intelligent switches is that they allow you to control your devices from a remote location. This makes them perfect for controlling lights when you are away from home. You can turn the lights on and off remotely to make your home appear occupied when it isn’t. This makes it less likely for someone to break in. You can also schedule lights to turn on and off to make it appear like someone is home when they aren’t.
2. Ambiance
Automated switches make it easy to create the right mood at any time of day. If you are going out with friends and want to set the mood, you can control your lights to create a specific ambiance. When you are ready to wind down for the evening, you can use your automated switches again to relax. Some switches may support multiple color options that allow you to select the right color for your mood.
3. Multi-device Integration
Automated switches are often a part of a more extensive smart home network. This means you can use your computerized switches with other smart home devices. This gives you a wide range of options for controlling your devices. For example, your switches may work with both devices if you have a smart thermostat and smart lights. This allows you to manage your lights and thermostat with a single switch.
4. Increased Security
Automated switches have various features that make them ideal for use in homes with small children. They are a great way to control access to electrical devices in your home. You can assign each switch a unique PIN or use a fingerprint or facial recognition sensor to control access. This allows you to control which family members can use specific devices. You can also use schedules to control when you can use a device. This is great for devices kids may otherwise misuse, such as kitchen appliances.
5. Cost Saving
Many automatic switches let you create schedules and timers and use a smart home environment to turn off your devices automatically. This can help lower your energy bills while also positively impacting the environment.
Smart Switches vs. Smart Bulbs
There are a few significant differences between automated switches and smart bulbs. One is that you can’t use a smart bulb as a light switch. The only thing you can do with a smart bulb turns the lights connected to it on and off. This makes smart bulbs ideal for lamps but not great for use in rooms where you have more than one light connected. A switch is a better option in that scenario.
