SMART HOME ON A TIGHT BUDGET—IS IT DOABLE?
I actually tried those retrofit switch covers last year when I was renting and couldn’t mess with the wiring. They’re not perfect—sometimes they’re a bit noisy or get stuck if the switch is stiff—but honestly, they did the trick for me. Plus, no electrical work, so it felt safer. I will say, in terms of sustainability, swapping out switches is probably better long-term since you’re not adding more plastic gadgets to the mix... but if you’re on a budget or renting, the covers are a decent compromise.
“if you’re on a budget or renting, the covers are a decent compromise.”
I’ve actually installed those covers for a few clients who weren’t ready to commit to full rewiring. They’re not flawless—sometimes the motor struggles if the switch is old or painted over. But for renters, it’s a solid workaround. If you ever get the chance to swap out for smart switches, though, it’s worth it in the long run. Less clutter and fewer batteries to worry about. Still, for a quick fix, those covers do the job.
SMART HOME ON A TIGHT BUDGET—IS IT DOABLE?
Had to laugh reading about the motors struggling with painted-over switches—been there. I tried those covers in my last place before biting the bullet and swapping out a few for actual smart switches. The covers were fine for basic stuff, but two of mine chewed through batteries pretty fast. For anyone renting or just testing the waters, they’re handy, but I did find myself babysitting them more than I wanted. Once I switched to hardwired smart switches, it was night and day... no more fiddling with loose covers or dead batteries every few months. If you can swing it down the line, definitely worth upgrading.
SMART HOME ON A TIGHT BUDGET—IS IT DOABLE?
I get the appeal of hardwired switches, but honestly, I’ve had decent luck sticking with the “cheap and cheerful” route. Picked up a handful of those plug-in smart outlets for like $10 each and just use lamps instead of ceiling lights where I can’t swap the switch. Not as slick as the built-in stuff, but it gets the job done without tearing into the walls or messing with wiring. Sure, it’s not perfect, but if you’re just after basic automation, it’s a solid workaround.
Not as slick as the built-in stuff, but it gets the job done without tearing into the walls or messing with wiring.
Honestly, I’m with you—no need to rip up drywall if you don’t have to. I started with those $10 smart plugs too and just paired them with a cheap Alexa Dot. It’s not fancy, but I can turn off the living room lamp from bed, which is all I really wanted. Have you tried any of the budget motion sensors? I’m curious if they’re worth adding to the mix or just more hassle.
