Living Room
SMART lights
I want information about...
- how to turn lights on and off when I can't get to the light switch
- how to turn lights on and off when I'm away from home
What can it be used for?
A smart light is a light fitting or light bulb that connects to Wi-Fi or uses Bluetooth so that lights can be controlled in a variety of ways. Some smart lights enable lighting colours to be changed or lights to be dimmed. Depending on the type and the functions they have, smart lights can be controlled through:
- using a remote control
- setting it to turn on or off at a preset time
- coming on automatically when it gets dark by linking to a light sensor or installing a light fitting with a built in light sensor
- movement nearby by linking it to a movement sensor
- picking up when a device like a smartphone is near to the light by linking to phone GPS; this is sometimes referred to as a geofence
- speaking certain phrases through a linked smart speaker
- a smartphone or tablet - usually through an app
You can find and buy these and similar products by searching 'smart light bulbs' or 'smart lights' on the internet. Many shops who sell ordinary light bulbs also now sell smart light bulbs.
Benefits
- Convenience: can give the ability for lights to be controlled more easily in a variety of ways.
- Increased independence: Lights can be switched on and off even when the light switch can't be accessed for example if the person who will use it isn't able to get to the switch because of difficulty walking. This gives increased choice and control over when lights are switched on and off rather than relying on others.
- Security and money saving: Can provide the ability to turn lights on and off when needed, sometimes even if not at home, rather than having to leave them on all the time which can save money.
Things to Consider
- Ease of use: Choose a smart light or light bulb that is easy to set up and use. User-friendly apps and clear instructions can make a big difference. Check reviews and comparison websites.
- Suitability: Choose the right type of bulb or light fitting for how it will be used. What does it need to do? How does it need to be controlled? Different ones work in different ways.
- Compatibility: Choose the correct smart bulb for the type and wattage of the light fitting. Make sure it is compatible with any devices it will be used with such as a smart speaker or an app on a smartphone or tablet. If you are choosing smart lights or bulbs that enable colour changing or dimming of lights you will need to check that your home wiring system will support this function, if in doubt check with an electrician.
- Type of connection required: Does the light require home internet usually Wi-Fi and is this in place or does it work through Bluetooth or a remote control. Connecting through Wi-Fi usually means the light can be controlled even when not nearby, connecting through Bluetooth or by remote control usually means the person controlling it will need to be in the same room as the light. If it uses internet, check the Wi-Fi requirements, some lights only work on 2.4 GHz networks, so make sure your router supports this. If you are unsure check with the internet supplier.
- Installation: Smart light bulbs are usually installed in the same way as standard light bulbs making them easy to fit. Smart light fittings will usually require installation by an electrician.
- Cost and Value for Money: Smart light bulbs can vary in price, shop around to get the best deal and check reviews.