How Does Smart Lighting Work?

Homeowners were amazed by the technological advancement when the Clapper® came out in the 1980s because lighting could be controlled without getting out of bed. Smart lighting has progressed greatly over the years, giving even more control from tapping instead of clapping. Using an app to manage your smart lighting, you can schedule your lights to fade in for an easier wakeup or turn them on manually from the comfort of your bed. Shade Tree AV builds customized smart lighting systems to make your life more accessible, comfortable, and efficient. 

The Process

To begin with, all of the traditional light bulbs are replaced with smart light bulbs that can be controlled with an internet supported hub. Smart light bulbs will fit into your existing fixtures. When all of your bulbs are connected, you can manage them with a tap from the comfort of your couch, from work, or from across the world. 

Instant Benefits

• Access–Controlling your lighting remotely can be helpful for many reasons. If you are returning home from work after dark, you can turn on your lights when you are on the way home. Turning lights on remotely avoids spending money lighting up your home when you are not there. Lights can also be a helpful deterrent for intruders. Although scheduled lights have enjoyed some success, intruders sometimes recognize a pattern if they are scoping out your home. Automation allows you to light up your home in a less predictable pattern. Smart cameras that work with your lights can be a part of your home automation plan if you choose to add that as well.
• Customization–Dimmers can help create the right ambiance in your home. Although smart light bulbs can be problematic with existing dimmer switches, they can be dimmed using your app. If you prefer softer lighting in your bedroom, you can adjust the dimness accordingly. You can also choose to adjust your lighting based upon your schedule. If you are away at work, you can schedule your lights to be off during this time and turn on when you return home. You could even schedule lights out for your kids each night to simplify your bedtime routine. Certainly, smart lighting allows you to build a schedule that truly works for your family.
• Time-Saving– Leaving lights on when you do not need them wastes money and energy. By using smart light bulbs, far less energy is wasted when left on than traditional light bulbs. Instead of having to make your rounds to double check that the family turned off every light each night, you can schedule lights out at a certain time or turn them off manually from your bed. Smart lighting is not just about being tech savvy, but rather making your life simpler.

Smart Lighting Misconception

It is important to note that technologically advanced home additions have the reputation for being expensive. Before you let the fear of expense scare you away, you might be surprised with how affordable smart lighting has become. When smart lighting debuted in 2012, the government began promoting greater efficiency standards. The  expanding energy efficient market has caused the cost of smart lighting to drop consistently since 2014. As more and more options for smart lighting are released, they become more affordable. Although smart light bulbs may have a higher upfront cost than traditional light bulbs, they balance the cost over time. It is important to note that their lifespans are known to stretch decades, saving you a great deal of money as energy efficiency continues to improve.  

If you are ready to tap on and tap off your lighting, schedule a consultation with Shade Tree AV to learn more about smart lighting for your home.