Setting Up Smart Home Lighting

Every year, home automation becomes more popular. According to Statista (2020), by the year 2025, 46.9% of Canadian households will have some form of automation. Will yours be one of them?

Switching out regular bulbs for smart bulbs has been a common recommendation for those who would like to test out home automation because a smart lighting system is fairly easy to set up.

How Smart Lighting Works

Smart lighting is lighting that is controlled through wireless transmission, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other networks. These wireless communication systems help create a connection between your remote control or device-enabled app and the bulb/fixture.

How to Get Started

There are various smart bulbs available on the market. Be sure to read the product specs to evaluate whether it will be the right type for your needs. For instance, some bulbs operate on Wi-Fi alone, while others require you to purchase additional devices, such as a hub, that help improve the performance of the bulb.

How to Properly Install/Use Smart Lighting

Once you have decided on your bulb, the installation is a breeze. Make sure your light switch is turned off, remove the old bulb from the socket, and then replace it with your new smart bulb.

You will then have to download an app to connect the smart bulb to your device. Remember to turn the switch back on so that you can control the output on your device.

Tips to Keep in Mind

With a smart bulb, it is advised to keep the switch turned on and only use your device to control the bulb’s output. This is recommended because the bulb cannot be controlled if the switch is turned off, and continuously using the switch to turn the lights on and off  also reduces the lifespan of the bulb.

Other Considerations

Aside from smart bubs, there are also smart switches, smart plugs, and smart lighting fixtures readily available on the market.

Smart Switches – Caseta by Lutron

A smart switch may be a more cost-effective option if you have lots of bulbs in one fixture, or more than one fixture that turns on from a single light switch.   

It is also important to note that selecting a smart switch will involve installation, which will require a little more research and effort. It is always advised to seek for professional help if you are not comfortable with handling electrical wiring.

Caseta is a really great product to get started in your journey to having a smarter home.

What Caseta Allows You To Do

  • Schedule when lighting is turned on or off using a timer or sunset tracking, which adjusts the lighting depending on the availability of natural lighting.
  • Schedule when lighting is turned on even when you are away from home to give the illusion of an occupied home.
  • Create a setting to switch out the mood of a space, so you can adjust the lights to be bright when you are entertaining for game night or dim for a family movie night.

Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, Apple Home Kit
 

Smart Fixtures – Smart Home Platform for Smart Home Fixtures by Dals

Dals lighting has introduced its Dals Connect smart home platform, which allows you to control different types of products from the company’s line. The Smart Home line includes includes a variety light fixtures that can be easily controlled through the Dals Connect app. This app can be downloaded from the App store or Google Play store.

Once the app is downloaded, follow the steps for setting up an account. You can then search the app for your Dals smart home products. Once they are added, be sure your Wi-Fi or your Bluetooth is enabled.

What Dals Allows You To Do

  • Control colour output (2700K-6500K) and dimming control to set the mood of a space.
  • Schedule usage.

Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa

These are just two examples of smart home products. Feel free to contact Norburn Lighting and Bath online or visit the showroom for more information and product options. Norburn lighting specialists are always happy to help!

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Learn more 

Smart Bulbs vs Smart Switches 

How Does Smart Lighting Work? 

How Do Smart Bulbs Work with Regular Switches?

Smart Home- Canada: Statista Market Forecast