I’ve run into the same thing—folks get dazzled by the idea of full-on RGB, then a month later they’re asking how to just turn the dang lights on without pulling out their phone. I get the appeal, but outside, it’s a different ballgame.
- Motion sensors are a game changer for yards. No fumbling for switches, no app lag, just walk out and boom—light.
- Smart switches are way easier to swap out if something fails. You don’t have to climb up and replace a whole fixture.
- RGB is fun for parties or holidays, but day-to-day? Most people just want to see where they’re walking.
I do like having a couple of smart bulbs for accent spots—like under a tree or along a path—where you might want to change the vibe for a BBQ or whatever. But for main lighting, I’m with you: keep it simple.
“The fewer steps between you and light, the better, especially outside.”
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve even started using dusk-to-dawn sensors on some setups. Set it and forget it.
Curious—has anyone tried integrating both? Like, motion sensor switches for main lights, but a few RGB spots for special occasions? Wondering if that’s overkill or actually practical.
Mixing both actually works pretty well. I’ve got motion sensors for the main path and porch, then a couple of RGB spots under the big maple for when we have people over. It’s not overkill if you keep it simple—just don’t go wild with the automation or you’ll end up troubleshooting more than enjoying. The dusk-to-dawn sensors are a lifesaver too, especially if you’re prone to forgetting to flip switches.
- I’ve found that tenants mess with smart bulbs more than switches—either swapping them out or just not using the app.
- Switches are more “set and forget,” especially for rentals.
- Curious, have you had any issues with guests or family overriding your automation, or is it pretty smooth?
- I like the dusk-to-dawn sensors too, but sometimes they’re a pain if the fixture’s in a shady spot.
Honestly, I totally get what you mean about tenants messing with smart bulbs. I’ve had a few go missing or swapped back to regular ones, which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to keep things automated and low-maintenance. Switches are definitely more “set and forget,” especially if you’re not living there yourself. Less to explain, less to troubleshoot.
- I like the dusk-to-dawn sensors too, but sometimes they’re a pain if the fixture’s in a shady spot.
Yeah, those sensors can be hit or miss. I had one on the side of my house that barely got any sunlight—ended up turning on at random times or not at all. Ended up using a smart switch with a schedule instead, and it’s been way more reliable (and honestly cheaper in the long run).
As for people overriding automation, my family is notorious for just flipping switches off and ignoring any automations I set up. It’s not perfect, but labeling helps a bit… and sometimes you just have to pick your battles. At least with switches, they still work manually if someone messes with them.
If you’re watching your budget, I’d say go for the switches where you can—less stuff to replace if someone mucks it up.
I’ve definitely run into the “family overrides automation” issue too—labeling the switches helps, but honestly, sometimes people just want to do things their own way. It’s almost like a battle of wills between convenience and habit.
The point about tenants swapping out bulbs is interesting. I’ve noticed that with renters, anything that feels even slightly complicated or non-standard tends to get ignored or replaced. Smart switches seem to fly under the radar more since they look and work like regular ones.
One thing I wonder, though: have you tried any of those in-wall smart dimmers or multi-way switches? I’ve been looking at them as a possible compromise—they’re a bit more involved to install, but once they’re in, they’re hard to mess up. On the other hand, I keep thinking about what happens if the Wi-Fi goes down or there’s a power outage... does it end up being more hassle than it’s worth?
Curious if anyone’s found a setup that doesn’t get constantly overridden or fiddled with. I keep thinking there must be some “set it and forget it” combo that actually works long-term, but maybe that’s wishful thinking.
