Thinking about upgrading to smart lighting? Great! But before you hit “Add to Cart,” here are seven common mistakes to avoid.
1. Ignoring Compatibility
Mistake: Buying a bulb that doesn’t work with your current system.
Fix: Check if the bulb is compatible with your smart home assistant—Alexa, Google Assistant, or HomeKit.
2. Skipping the Hub Research
Mistake: Not realizing some bulbs need a separate hub.
Fix: Decide if you want bulbs that connect directly via Wi-Fi (like Wyze or LIFX) or need a hub (like Philips Hue).
3. Overlooking Lumens
Mistake: Choosing bulbs that are too dim.
Fix: Look for bulbs with at least 800 lumens for general room lighting. LIFX offers up to 1100 lumens.
4. Buying All the Same Type
Mistake: One bulb type doesn’t fit all scenarios.
5. Not Considering App Quality
Mistake: Picking a bulb with a clunky app.
Fix: Read app reviews in the App Store/Play Store to ensure good UX and stability.
6. Forgetting Power Source Limits
Mistake: Installing a bulb in a non-smart-compatible socket or dimmer switch.
Fix: Use smart switches or neutral-wire compatible bulbs for legacy wiring.
7. Assuming All Brands Are Secure
Mistake: Choosing the cheapest bulb without checking security.
Fix: Stick to reputable brands that update firmware and support two-factor authentication.