Only thing that bugs me is the WiFi dropouts if I’m too far from the router.
Totally get that—WiFi range is always the weak link for outdoor stuff. I’ve had similar issues with my garage plug, and honestly, moving it a few feet made all the difference. Mesh systems are nice but yeah, not cheap. For just basic on/off, plugs seem like the sweet spot. No need to overcomplicate it if it works, right?
Yeah, WiFi range can really throw a wrench in the works, especially outdoors. I’ve run into the same thing trying to automate my shed lights—sometimes just shifting the plug or using a simple extension cord makes all the difference. Mesh is cool, but honestly, if you can get away with a basic setup that just works, why complicate it? Sometimes simple is best.
Mesh is cool, but honestly, if you can get away with a basic setup that just works, why complicate it? Sometimes simple is best.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve had mixed luck with “simple.” Tried a few smart bulbs in my patio fixtures, and every time the WiFi hiccuped, I’d have to reset them. Swapped to a smart switch inside the house—way less drama. Ever run into issues with bulbs losing connection, or am I just cursed with bad luck wiring?
Tried a few smart bulbs in my patio fixtures, and every time the WiFi hiccuped, I’d have to reset them.
Man, I feel you on the smart bulb drama. I tried those in my garage last year—figured it’d be easy. But every time the router so much as blinked, half the bulbs would go AWOL. Ended up on a ladder more times than I care to admit, just to get them back online.
Honestly, I’ve had way better luck with switches too. Once they’re wired in, they just work. Sure, swapping out a switch can be a pain if your wiring’s ancient (been there), but at least you don’t have to mess with each individual bulb every time the WiFi sneezes.
I wouldn’t say you’re cursed—just seems like smart bulbs are finicky if your signal isn’t rock solid everywhere. For outdoor stuff especially, switches have been way less hassle for me. Less “tech support” moments in the middle of a BBQ, you know?
Yeah, the “climb the ladder and reset” routine gets old fast. I totally get wanting something that just works, especially outside. I’ll say, though, if you ever get a mesh WiFi setup, some of those bulbs behave way better. Still, smart switches are just less drama overall. Plus, less e-waste if you ever move or want to swap bulbs for something more efficient down the line.
