I've been wondering about sensors myself—are they really worth the hassle? I got a couple of smart bulbs for the living room thinking they'd make life easier, but honestly, half the time I forget to even open the app. And when I do remember, there's usually some random firmware update waiting... like seriously, how often do bulbs need updates?
Timers sound interesting though. Do you just set them up once and forget about it? I've been skeptical about adding more tech to my setup after the bulb fiasco, but if timers are as straightforward as you say, maybe that's a better route. My workspace lighting is still kind of meh—too bright at night, too dim during cloudy days. Maybe simpler really is smarter in this case...
Timers are definitely simpler—set 'em once and forget they're even there. Sensors can be finicky, and firmware updates for bulbs? Seriously, too much hassle. Maybe just get a dimmer switch... low-tech, reliable, and no app drama.
Timers are definitely straightforward, but dimmers aren't always the silver bullet either. A couple thoughts from experience:
- Timers: Agree they're reliable, especially mechanical ones. Installed plenty over the years, and clients rarely complain about them. Just set and forget—no firmware headaches.
- Sensors: I've seen mixed results. Had one client who insisted on motion sensors for his home office lighting because he hated fumbling for switches. Worked great...until he realized that whenever he sat still reading or typing quietly, the lights would shut off on him. Ended up waving his arms every 15 mins to keep it alive—pretty funny to watch, but annoying for him.
- Smart bulbs: Honestly, firmware updates on a bulb feel ridiculous to me too. Had a homeowner recently who got locked out of his smart lighting app after an update glitched; took him days of customer support calls just to get control back. Not worth it in my book.
- Dimmers: Solid choice most of the time, but I've run into LED compatibility issues occasionally. Flickering bulbs or buzzing sounds can drive you nuts when you're trying to concentrate.
Personally, at my own place I ended up installing simple LED fixtures with adjustable color temperature (warm/cool) controlled by a basic wall-mounted dimmer switch. No apps, no Wi-Fi drama, just clean reliable lighting that doesn't distract me from work.
Sometimes simpler really is better—but also pays to check compatibility beforehand or you'll end up troubleshooting anyway...
Timers are reliable, sure, but honestly I think you're underselling motion sensors a bit. I've had good luck with occupancy sensors that detect smaller movements—no frantic arm waving needed. Maybe your client just got a cheaper model? Worth another look IMO.
I've had mixed experiences with occupancy sensors myself. Installed some high-end ones in a client's home office—still had occasional hiccups when they were quietly reading or sketching. They're great, but not foolproof... sometimes simpler really is better.
