February 12, 2019
3 mins read
Trying to learn how to add a light switch to an existing outlet or light fixture?
Adding an additional switch to a room is traditionally a difficult task. This is done via a 3 or 4 way switch and normally entails tearing into drywall, running additional electrical wire, patching drywall and repainting the walls. Most people do not find this to be worth the time or money.
Thanks to smart switches there is now a much easier way to upgrade your home with this feature with very little cost. Better yet, most homeowners will be able to do the work themselves in less than an hour!
Let’s dive into how to easily add a lightswitch.
Adding a Smart Switch in Your Home
Now before we get started, there is one caveat to adding a smart switch. You must ensure your current light switch has a neutral wire. Without it the smart switch will not work.
HomeWorx has used the following set up multiple times in home remodeling with great success. You only need to purchase two items, both found on Amazon.com.
Lutron Caseta Smart Home Switch
The first item is the new light switch that will replace the existing light switch controlling your lights. This switch will be hooked up in a similar fashion to your original switch with the caveat that the smart switch will require a neutral wire.
Lutron On/Off Switching Pico Remote
The second item is the switching remote. This device communicates back to the switch installed in step 1 using RF technology and tells the switch to turn on or off. This second switch can be placed anywhere as it truly is a remote control. However, if you want to put it in a stationery spot on the wall you can do that and put a wall plate on it so it looks just like a normal light switch – only there are no wires attached to it! Better yet, you can easily add additional remotes to have 3, 4, 5, etc. switches control a light.
There are many brands offering similar functionality, but we found the Lutron products to be easy to set up with reliable connections between the switches. These can also be hooked up to your smartphone to control the lights from anywhere, including through your Alexa.
The Best Way to Add a Light Switch in Your Home
We love this product and hope you will be able to use it to make your life just a little bit better. If you do not feel comfortable hooking up the switches and are in the Des Moines, IA area, give HomeWorx a call to quickly get this set up for you.
HomeWorx is a leading house remodeling contractor serving the Des Moines, IA area. We would love to help you set these smart switches up. Whether it is as a simple handyman project or part of your kitchen or bathroom remodel. Let us help you create a smart home!
