I’m searching for a programmable dimmer switch that can manage the lighting on my front porch. I want to set the light to turn on at dusk at full intensity, dim to 20% at 11 PM, return to full brightness at 6 AM, and then switch off at sunrise. I’ve tried searching this forum and Google but haven’t found a straightforward solution. Thanks in advance for any help!
You might find it easier to use a smart bulb for this. Just program the schedule into the bulb’s app.
Greta said:
You might find it easier to use a smart bulb for this. Just program the schedule into the bulb’s app.
My experience with smart bulbs outdoors hasn’t been great, even with ones rated for outdoor use.
@Amir
They should work fine if they’re enclosed in a protective lantern case.
Greta said:
@Amir
They should work fine if they’re enclosed in a protective lantern case.
I tried several bulbs in my porch ceiling and they all failed within a few months.
I use a Wemo switch for similar functionality. There are quite a few products out there that can do what you’re looking for.
For this type of automation, a smart wifi dimmer switch would work well, even without a hub. Any brand should do. Install it, connect it to your wifi using its app, usually something like Smart Life, and set up the automations directly in the app. You can use time or weather conditions as triggers for your settings.
I managed this with a Hue bulb, which allows for detailed scheduling.
A smart bulb paired with Google Assistant routines can handle this easily. If you prefer a switch, Cync smart switches also offer easy scene creation in their app, which you can then manage with Google Assistant.
Check out the Kasa dimmer switch. I use one for similar settings in my bathroom, where it dims during the night and brightens during the day. Very handy!
Wilson said:
Check out the Kasa dimmer switch. I use one for similar settings in my bathroom, where it dims during the night and brightens during the day. Very handy!
Do you have a model number for that switch?
Shelly Smart Dimmers can handle this kind of scheduling. Here’s a link to one: Shelly Plus Wall Dimmer | WiFi & Bluetooth Smart Wall Dimmer Relay | Home Automation| Compatible with Alexa & Google Home | iOS Android App| No Hub Required | Timer Schedule | Dimmable Lights: Amazon.com: Tools & Home Improvement
GE Cync switches might be what you’re looking for.
Any smart bulb that supports pwm should work, just set it up correctly with the automation.
Most smart dimmers should do the trick. You’ll need a few routines set up for different times of the day. Just be mindful of the actual times of sunset and sunrise as they change throughout the year.
Gabrielle said:
Most smart dimmers should do the trick. You’ll need a few routines set up for different times of the day. Just be mindful of the actual times of sunset and sunrise as they change throughout the year.
I’ve only found switches that toggle on/off. I’m specifically looking for one that adjusts brightness at scheduled times. Any recommendations?
@Dan
Take a look at the Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch HS220. It should let you schedule dimming levels, not just on/off times.
Gabrielle said:
@Dan
Take a look at the Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch HS220. It should let you schedule dimming levels, not just on/off times.
Thanks, but the HS220 seems to only automate the on/off function. I’m looking for something that can automatically adjust light intensity.
@Dan
Actually, the Kasa HS220 does allow you to set dimming levels through the app or via voice commands. The fading feature is just an extra.