Smart switches are the way to go for outdoor setups, no question. I’ve had tenants call me at all hours because a “smart” bulb stopped working—usually just because someone hit the wall switch. Here’s what I do: swap out the regular switch for a smart one, then use standard LED bulbs. That way, you keep the control and don’t have to worry about someone accidentally killing the power. Less maintenance, fewer headaches, and honestly, it’s cheaper in the long run. The only time I’d consider smart bulbs is if I needed color-changing for some reason, but for most yards, that’s just overkill.
Yeah, I’ve learned that lesson the hard way too—tenants and smart bulbs are a wild combo. I can’t count how many times I’ve had to explain, “No, the light isn’t broken, you just flipped the switch.” Smart switches are just less drama. Only exception for me is if someone’s dead set on those disco-color bulbs for backyard parties... but honestly, most folks just want to see where they’re walking and not have to call me at midnight.
“No, the light isn’t broken, you just flipped the switch.”
Man, I’ve had that exact conversation more times than I can count. Smart switches are just way more foolproof for rentals or shared spaces. Less tech support calls, less confusion. I’ll admit, the color bulbs are fun for parties, but 99% of the time people just want to hit a switch and have light. If someone wants both, I’ll wire a smart switch with a dumb dimmable bulb—best of both worlds and no midnight troubleshooting.
I get where you’re coming from, but I actually lean the other way, especially for outdoor setups. Smart bulbs might seem like overkill, but I’ve found they’re way more flexible for yards. You can set up zones, automate color changes for holidays, or just dim things down for a chill evening—without rewiring anything. And if someone flips the switch by mistake, most bulbs remember their last setting when power comes back.
Honestly, I’ve seen more confusion with smart switches when people try to use them with multi-way circuits or older wiring. Plus, if you want to change the vibe for a backyard dinner or a late-night hangout, it’s just easier to grab your phone or ask Alexa than to mess with switches.
I do get that in rentals or shared houses, simplicity wins. But for a yard where you want some atmosphere and flexibility? Smart bulbs all the way... unless you’re dealing with harsh weather or security lights, then yeah, maybe stick with switches.
Yeah, I’m with you on the flexibility. The ability to automate colors for different holidays or just dim things for a movie night outside is a game changer.
- I’ve run into the exact wiring headaches you mentioned with smart switches. Old house here, so nothing’s straightforward.
- One thing I’m still unsure about: how do smart bulbs hold up in actual rain or snow? I keep reading mixed reviews about weatherproofing.
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This is huge. I used to get so annoyed when someone would kill the power and reset everything.if someone flips the switch by mistake, most bulbs remember their last setting when power comes back.
I guess if you want easy mood changes and don’t want to mess with electrical work, bulbs just make more sense. Still not sure about long-term durability, though...
