Hi, im trying to convert my existing dumb light switch into a smart switch similar to the Philip’s hue wall switch module.
However the hue modules are very expensive.
I already have smart bulbs and for all I care they should be powered at all times.
I’m thinking about using a Sonoff zbmini without a load because it’s small and can sense state changes on existing single rocker switches. However I don’t know if it even works with no attached load. I presume it might.
If there would be alternative hardware with just the functionality to sense a switch state change, that would be preferable.
no, they SHOULD be. Period. you’re on the right path.
There are a few smart switch vendors that support this scenario already on device. Some Zwave vendors for instance the high end Innovelli and Zooz devices have a ‘smart bulb’ mode on-switch where they turn off the load control. In that case you’d also link the bulb and the switch with something like Direct Association if you’re using ZWave, Touchlink if you’re a Zigbee person, or HA automations for most any other solution.
The ‘cheater’ method (works with basically anything you could wire in as a lighting control here) is easier. You basically bypass the switch with the actual load and wire the line and load together with a pigtail and then run one leg of that pigtail into your smart switch. (or put both on the same ‘line’ terminal on the switch, if you’re using something like a Jasco switch) As long as the neutrals are in order, the switch is powered and operates as usual, the fixture retains on power at all times no matter what you do to the switch. Whether this is allowed in your jurisdiction - you’ll have to research it. Talk to the local sparky’s and / or inspectors if you know them. Or you can call your local municipality’s code compliance office and they’ll usually help. In this scenario you would also try to setup DA, Touchlink or whatever as noted above.
If you don’t understand what I wrote - please consult an electrician.
Hello to you both and thank you for the info . Its for sure sounds like a good advice that I encourage ExI follow .
I did not fully understand what you wrote and I do not have access to an electrician. However given the useful information you have listed and the effort to write it , I wounder if you could also provide a simple schematic diagram to make it useful since you seem to have a good background on this .
It is really not advisable to translate from text to electronics on your own if you are not into electronics that much as it could lead to misunderstanding of a power circuit
you’re on the right path.