

Smart plugs are similar to smart switches in that they allow you to control the flow of power, only from an outlet instead of a switch. The light bulbs can get pricey though, especially when you need multiple bulbs for a ceiling fan, and will only give you control over the bulb itself, not the source of power or other hardwired devices. Smart bulbs will also give you control over turning the light on and off, and many can change colors (that's not just fun, but surprisingly useful when ordering delivery or waiting for an Uber).

Installing a smart switch isn't the only way to smarten up your home's lighting. +21 more See all photos Smart switches versus smart bulbs and plugs Lutron, for example, has a compatibility tool you can use to find out which light bulbs (including recessed and can lights) are compatible with its switches. Smart devices and assistants aside, you'll also want to ensure that your smart switch is compatible with the lights you have installed - especially if they're LED lights. Try to find a switch that is compatible with those devices if you want to better integrate it with your smart home network. When shopping for a smart switch, keep in mind what kind of smart devices and assistants are already in your home or you may own down the road. Again, it's convenient, and there's also something that feels slightly futuristic about saying, "Hey Google, turn off all the lights" as you're walking out of the house. Most smart switches are compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri (or some combination of the three), enabling voice commands and further integration with your smart home. Try These Energy-Saving Tips for Renters to Lower Your Utility Bills.You Can Actually Save Money by Using Electricity at These Specific Times.

Plus, the ability to remotely flip a light switch on or off, or set it to a timer to do so automatically, can add a level of security to your home while you're away. I'm kidding a bit with the couch thing (though I've definitely been there), but the fact remains that controlling your light switches via an app on your phone or simply saying, "Alexa, turn on the lights" is convenient. Sure, you can walk over to a light switch and flip it on or off, or maybe adjust the dimmer setting, but what about when you're away? Or, even more importantly, when you're comfy on the couch and want to turn the lights down without standing up? Such situations, among others, are where a smart switch will come in handy. I get it: "Why would I need a smart version of something that's literally as simple as flipping a switch?" I can think of a few reasons, but it ultimately comes down to what justifies almost every smart home technology: convenience. They'll run you a bit more than standard switches and may require a bit of know-how to install, but you may find smart switches to be well worth the small trouble. Smart switches are available online or at your local big-box hardware store and come in a variety of colors and configurations, including dimmer settings. It is IP68 sealed dustproof and waterproof.There's a smart version of just about everything you can plug in, from TVs to refrigerators and even the plug itself, but what about the switches that control power to said devices and other fixtures in your home? You'll want a smart switch for that, of course. Like all our rocker switches this is a genuine Carling Technologies product. All actuators sold on this site will fit this switch.

This rocker switch body is meant to be paired a etched or printed rocker switch cover for a complete switch unit. It can also be used to reverse polarity on an electric motor. If you’re replacing an existing rocker switch, it will probably have a “VLD1” stamped on the side, although it will also replace a V8D1, VLDA, and V8DA (among others). It has one independent lamp at the top, so it can be backlit, or terminals 8 and 7 can be ignored for non-backlit switch banks. So this switch would normally be used for things like trim tabs, tilt/trim systems or anchor windlasses. This rocker switch is a Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT) and it’s function is (ON)-OFF-(ON). Product Description (ON)-OFF-(ON) Rocker Switch, DPDT, Independent Lamp
