+6 votes
by (230 points)
As we finalize our new home construction I’d like incorporating some smart devices that I can install myself. What’s the best (DYI install) options for lights, locks, cameras? Nothing too complex please. Thanks in advance!  
As we finalize our new home construction I’d like incorporating some smart devices that I can inst

5 Answers

+6 votes
by (3.2k points)
This depends on your level of comfort with DIY. For lights I would change out the switches several options available for this. If you aren’t wanting to mess with electricity then changing light bulbs would be better. This also applies for cameras. Wired systems are always better than wireless for quality so if you ran network cables then I would look at a wired system. If not, just make sure you have good WiFi coverage throughout your house, possibly using a mesh WiFi or adding access points.  
by (230 points)
@balzer thanks! At this time we’re in the phase where all wires are ran but no switches have been installed. We’ll most likely go with google mesh. I’m just a little lost on the best options for switches and the hub that runs it all. So much to choose from!  
by (3.2k points)
@ciro0 There are a lot of options. I have GE Z-wave and like them. I have heard on SmartThings groups that Inovelli switches are solid as well and a little cheaper option. I would look at design to determine which you prefer as so many are similar these days.  
+3 votes
by (4.5k points)
I'm not sure where you live, but definitely try and get a neutral to all switch locations. Most of the smart switches on the market require a neutral. If it's too late, you can always opt for something like a sonoff or a shelly1 above the ceiling. That way you have smart control aswell as normal local (i. e. dumb switch) operation.  
by (3.6k points)
In the us all new installations have to have neutral at the switch
by (4.5k points)
@vine that's one less problem to worry about :) Not like that in the UK unfortunately, but times are changing.  
by (3.6k points)
Yes, even in the uk it's not a must but most new installs are being done loop in at the switch
by (230 points)
@elene thanks sir but that’s way over my head lol
by (4.5k points)
@ciro0 no probs, just from a security point of view, if you're considering cameras, best practice is to keep them on a separate network than your computers. IP cameras in the past have been notoriously easy to hack :)
+4 votes
by (4.5k points)
For networks, cat6A preferably around the place. Cameras powered by POE and have them going into a separate POE switch to your main network (for security) and then a decent firewall controlling how that communication flows.  
+5 votes
by (1.9k points)
Www. homeseer. com
+6 votes
by (4.6k points)
If it’s not too late Ethernet cables should be run everywhere. Basement to attic. Each room. Some eaves of the house. If you think you have too much, you want more
by (230 points)
@balzer/activity" class="qa-user-link">balzer Steven thanks @balzer/activity" class="qa-user-link">balzer and we did run at least 1 to each room.  
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