Retrofit smart home light switches: uncomplicated and effective

Intelligent wireless light switches offer you an uncomplicated solution for upgrading to smart home lighting. Installation is also possible in a rented apartment and there are even versions for which you never come into contact with the electrics. Above all, it is advantageous that you do not have to compromise on the range of functions: dimming, color change and operation from a distance are just a few options. You can also expand the system later - even beyond the intelligent lighting. Because you can also connect the light switches to heating and roller shutters, for example. Smart light switches... are easy to assemble, ensure greater comfort, can be configured individually, can be operated from a distance, suitable for home and commercial use, can be connected to various smart applications.

You should take this into account when retrofitting wireless light switches

The intelligent light switch model you choose is by no means just dependent on the look. It is more important that you decide on a smart home provider before you buy it. Applications from different manufacturers are usually difficult to combine. So that you don't have to control several systems in parallel in the future, you should decide in advance.

You can finally build on this foundation: there are usually smart light switches for every system, be it Philips Hue , Casambi, EnOcean or a completely different.

You should also deal with the question of where and how you want to mount your light switches:

Intelligent light switch to stick on

Adhesive mounting is particularly uncomplicated and flexible. Theoretically, you can stick these smart switches to a dust and grease-free surface of your choice - this does not necessarily have to be in place of an existing light switch. Instead, you can place them on furniture or freely on the wall, for example.

In this case, please note that these versions are wireless and therefore need to be powered differently. Many of these smart home light switches run on batteries that you have to keep replacing. We recommend that you use a self-powered switch instead.

Smart light switches that use energy harvesting technology generate energy at the touch of a button. They require little maintenance and you don't have to invest the money or effort to replace batteries.

Connect the wireless light switch to the power supply

Alternatively, you can replace the existing light switch and connect the wiring to the smart home version.

Caution: Since an intervention in the electrical system is necessary here, you should definitely hire a specialist for this type of installation.

The existing wired switch and switch panel must be removed.
The electrical system is connected in such a way that the light source has a permanent power supply.
Now the mounting frame can be placed on the flush-mounted box.
Insert shift paddles, engage - and that's it.

Replacing wired switches - without interfering with the electrical system

Of course, it saves space by replacing an existing light switch. If you use smart home lighting, you no longer need its classic function anyway. After all, you can easily control your lighting via app. In addition, you prevent someone from accidentally switching off the light and thus the power supply - and thus interrupting the necessary connection for your smart home lighting.

With a wireless switch with superstructure frame, you can carry out the installation yourself without coming into contact with the mains:

Remove the existing switch body and rockers.
Screw the superstructure frame of the wireless switch onto the flush-mounted box.
Make sure that the switch insert is switched to "On" and that the lamp is supplied.
Insert the paddle shifters and snap them into place. Done.

Just like with adhesive mounting, we recommend that you use a smart light switch with energy harvesting technology.

Light switch socket combinations

So-called light switch-socket combinations such as our hidden socket form a special form of Smart Home light switches. These are not only particularly space-saving, they also allow you to continue to use the power supply effectively.

Instead of connecting the wireless switch to the power supply, a socket is installed in the place of the old switch. This is normally functional and is covered by the smart light switch. If necessary, tap on it and it will move up and release the socket.

The installation also requires intervention in the electrical circuit and should therefore be carried out by a specialist.

Retrofitting with smart home light switch: installation requirements

If you want to connect the wireless switch or a hidden socket to the circuit, you have to check a few prerequisites in advance. You can find out exactly what you need to look out for and whether your flush-mounted box and the cabling are suitable for your project on our information page:

Prerequisites for installing a smart light switch

If you have any further questions or need help in selecting the right shifter, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to support you in retrofitting your small and large applications with smart home light switches.