What Is Z-Wave?

Z-Wave is a communication protocol extensively used in home automation because of its low power requirements, lower bandwidth, and more extensive range (compared to Wi-Fi). Z-Wave uses low-energy radio waves to communicate between appliances present inside its “mesh network.” Devices present within this mesh can communicate with a  central hub and with each other.

Using secure gateways, these networks can also communicate with the Internet, making them easy to control using smartphones and computers. The Z-Wave alliance, consisting of different device manufacturers, controls and operates the standards for Z-Wave technology.

Z-Wave Frequencies per Geographical Area

Within a broad frequency range specified by Z-Wave standards, Z-Wave communication frequencies might vary depending on where you are. The reason being that every geographical location has a unique allotment of frequency spectrums. For example, the number of devices/networks using the 950-960MHz range in Brazil might be different than in Australia.

Each country/region has its own sets of standards that define the type of devices allowed to use a specific frequency. Hence Z-Wave frequencies vary in different areas. Z-Wave devices use 908.4-916MHz in the US, 868MHz to 870Hz in Asia and Europe. You can find these allotments on the Z-Wave Alliance's website.

What Is Z-Wave Plus?

Z-Wave Plus is an extension of Z-Wave capabilities. Devices can be certified as Z-Wave Plus devices by the Z-Wave Alliance. These devices use the next Gen or Generation 5 of Z-Wave, which are the most advanced versions on the market right now. Z-Wave Plus certified devices have better speed and are much easier to install.

Z-Wave Plus devices also have up to 50% more battery life, richer device profiles, better self-healing capabilities, and additional RF channels to help reduce noise during communication. In addition, Z-Wave plus also use Over the Air Upgrading, which means upgrades can be installed by the mesh network instead of separate installation for each device.

How Does Z-Wave Work?

Z-Wave works by forming a wireless mesh network of Z-Wave devices that communicate through low-power RF signals. Instructions hop from one device to another in this mesh until they reach their intended device. Messages are initiated by the source device (a Z-Wave hub/controller), which either entirely or partially specifies the path that the message will take to reach its target device.

The message then hops through devices to reach its destination. Hence all devices are interconnected. Adding more Z-Wave widgets improves the network's security and reliability. If there are dead zones in the network or a device has stopped working, messages can be routed through a different path in the mesh.

What Does a Z-Wave Hub/Controller Do?

A Z-Wave hub/controller acts as the brain of a Z-Wave network, similar to a wifi router in your internet network. The hub has the most processing and storage capability of all devices in the network. It can receive, process, and send messages from devices in its networks. It also stores logic and encryption data for the network.

The hub is also capable of receiving instructions from you, the homeowner. The Z-Wave Hub can be connected to the Internet, which means you can give it instructions via your phone or computer, which it then processes and routes through the Z-Wave mesh. Hubs are also capable of synchronizing with personal assistants such as Google Assistant, Alexa, or Siri.

Types of Z-Wave Devices

Z-Wave devices can be divided into three categories

Controller/Hub

This is the most crucial part of a Z-Wave network. The Z-Wave hub/controller can receive instructions through a user interface, process them, and route them through the mesh network to their target device. The hub is capable of receiving and sending information to all devices in a network. In addition, hubs can also be connected via secure gateways to the Internet, making them more remotely accessible. Other devices in the network are aware of their own neighbor's status, while the hub is continuously aware of the entire network.

Routers

These are permanently powered-on devices. They can receive instructions from other devices and relay them forward in the mesh while performing their tasks.

Slave Devices           

These are the simplest devices in the network. They can receive and send information that affects them but can not relay data to other devices. These devices are usually battery-powered.

Are All Z-Wave devices Z-Wave Repeaters?

Most Z-Wave devices are repeaters, but not all of them. Repeaters can relay information to other devices, so they need to be powered on all the time, so battery-powered devices aren't usually repeaters. Repeaters have more processing and storing capabilities than slave devices but less than the hub.  

Repeaters are mainly used to extend the range of a network. If an end device (slave) is out of the central hub's range, it can connect to a repeater that connects to another repeater or the central hub. Repeaters cannot edit information; they only forward it to other devices. Because of repeaters, a Z-Wave network can extend to kilometers.

How Secure Is Z-Wave?

During its early years, Z-Wave gained a bad reputation for its perceived lack of security, but that was not due to the tech itself but rather a poor implementation by manufacturers. High-end security protocols were already developed, but manufacturers chose not to use them.

Over the years, as Z-Wave certifications became more stringent, uncertified devices were pushed out of the market, and Z-Wave networks became more and more secure. Today, Z-Wave is considered one of the safest technologies in the home automation market.

Z-Wave networks are secured using high-end security practices such as 128-AES encryption, which financial institutions also use. Although Z-Wave has an interconnected network; all its configuration and installation keys are stored in an encrypted repository in the hub.

It is next to impossible to hack the wireless signals in a Z-Wave network; however, if an intruder gains physical access to your devices, they can extract the configuration key. To prevent this eventuality, users install additional microcontrollers.

What is Z-Wave Long Range?

Z-Wave Long Range (LR) is the latest update in Z-Wave specifications. Although primarily aimed at increasing the range of the network, Z-Wave LR also improves the connectivity and power efficiency of the Z-Wave network.        

While previous Z-Wave specifications had a range of 100m (max), the Z-Wave Alliance claims that the new Long Range specification will be capable of transmitting wireless signals up to a radius of 1.6km. This tremendous increase will obliterate the need for repeaters within the confines of a house.

Z-Wave LR is also more scalable, offering up to 4000 nodes (older specification allowed 232 nodes). This means more devices can be connected to the network, making it more reliable and efficient. In addition, although the central hub will require more power, Z-Wave LR end devices will have better battery life. 

How Far Can Z-Wave Transmit?

Currently, Z-Wave wireless signals can reach devices placed up to 100 meters away. Beyond this, repeaters will need to be used. However, newer specifications such as the Z-Wave Long Range provide much better ranges (up to 1.6km), removing the need for repeaters inside a home.

It is essential to consider that the range of Z-Wave devices is also dependent on the environment. Appliances such as baby monitors and landlines, which operate in the same frequency spectrum as Z-Wave, can produce a lot of noise in the network, decreasing its range. So, in addition to getting long-range Z-Wave devices, it is essential to use frequency channels that are not crowded.

How Do I Extend My Z-Wave Network?

Z-Wave networks can be extended by using repeaters. Repeaters are Z-Wave devices that can relay data signals to other devices further along in the mesh. If a device is out of the wireless range of a Z-Wave hub, it can connect to one of the repeaters close to it, which then connects to the hub. This mesh mechanism forms the basis of Z-Wave networks.

When a new device is installed in the Z-Wave mesh, it can either connect with the central hub or one of the repeaters, depending on which signal is stronger. The appliance will remain connected to that particular device. Because repeaters need to be powered on all the time, they are not battery-operated. Some examples are smart bulbs, smart sockets, etc.  

Related Articles

If you're interested in Z-Wave, check out our other related articles.

The Verdict

Z-Wave is one of the leading technologies in today's smart home market. It is developed and maintained through stringent standards incorporated by the Z-Wave Alliance, making it backward compatible and interoperable. If you want a wireless technology that offers low power and high range without interfering with Wi-Fi signals, Z-Wave is your best bet.

Sources

z-wavealliance.org

The post Maximize Connectivity: 10 Essential Z-Wave Devices for Your Smart Home in 2024 appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

In this article, I dive into the differences between Zigbee and Z-Wave to help you make the right decision for your home.

Zigbee vs Z-Wave

What are Zigbee and Z-Wave?

Zigbee and Z-Wave are the predominant smart home wireless communication protocols in the market. Both use a similar mesh network for communication and similar network hierarchies.

Zigbee standards are owned and maintained by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (formerly known as the Zigbee Alliance) and are part of the IEEE 802.15.4 protocols.

Z-Wave was acquired by Silicon Labs from Sigma Designs and is now maintained by the Z-Wave Alliance. Both of these alliances contain manufacturers and researchers that work to make these standards better.

Zigbee and Z-Wave devices differ in their frequencies, wireless ranges, data transfer capabilities, and power requirements. Additionally, since independent alliances maintain these standards, they also differ in interoperability and compatibility.

Zigbee and Z-Wave are not directly compatible with each other.

Comparison Table

Before I get into the full comparison of these technologies, here's a quick overview in tabular form.

Frequencies

Zigbee vs Z-Wave devices operate in different frequency ranges. Zigbee operates in the 2.4GHz range worldwide, with the option of communicating at 868 MHz in Europe and 915 MHz in the United States.

Z-Wave operates in various sub-GHz frequency ranges, such as 868 MHz in Europe and 908 MHz in North America, depending on the region.

This difference in operating frequencies is one of the main reasons why Zigbee and Z-Wave devices differ so much in other characteristics.

Zigbee devices are more prone to interruptions by Wi-Fi devices since they use the same frequency range. In contrast, Z-Wave devices are susceptible to disruption by wireless landline signals or baby monitors.

Range

Lower frequencies can penetrate other mediums more efficiently and can also travel a greater distance without deteriorating. Hence, Z-Wave devices generally have a better range than Zigbee devices.

Zigbee wireless signals can travel up to 80m without interruptions, but this range is significantly reduced inside homes due to walls, windows, and any other obstructions. Inside homes, Zigbee's range can drop to 10-20m.

Z-Wave wireless signals can travel up to 100m without interruptions, while inside a house, their range can still get up to 50-60m.

As both technologies utilize a mesh topology, the range of both Zigbee and Z-Wave can be improved using repeaters. Repeaters are devices that can relay data to the devices out of the central hub's wireless range.

Z-Wave Long Range

Z-Wave Long Range (Z-Wave LR) further extends the range and network capabilities of Z-Wave devices. Z-Wave LR enables communication up to several kilometers and can support up to 4,000 nodes on a single network.

As Z-Wave LR devices become more widely adopted, they will provide an even more robust and extensive coverage option for smart home users.

Speed

Zigbee wins in speed! Since Zigbee uses high frequencies, it can transmit more data. Zigbee can reach speeds of up to 250kpbs while Z-Wave usually reaches 100kbps (almost half).           

These speeds are significantly lower than Wi-Fi and Bluetooth because Zigbee and Z-Wave devices generally do not need high data transfer speeds.  That is because a lot of data being transmitted in smart home networks comes from sensors that only produce a small amount.

Interoperability

Interoperability is one of the most critical aspects of your smart home network. Appliances in a home are continuously being replaced,  while new devices are regularly introduced. It can be painfully tedious to go through a wide array of devices to find one that fits your network. That is why both Zigbee and Z-Wave standards are strictly maintained by their respective alliances, which also certify products.

Zigbee is an open-source standard, which means manufacturers are free to use it in their devices without permission from the alliance. The way Zigbee certifications are organized also makes it harder for customers to pick a device.

Manufacturers may certify their hardware with Zigbee but then use non-certified software. Such devices are tagged as “Zigbee-ready” and might not be compatible with your home network. To ensure compatibility, look for devices with the Zigbee 3.0 certification, which guarantees compliance with the latest Zigbee standard, offering better interoperability and compatibility with your home network.

On the other hand, Z-Wave is the property of Sigma Design, which also runs the Z-Wave Alliance. Since Z-Wave is proprietary, manufacturers have to go through stringent certification processes that ensure their devices comply with Z-Wave standards. This is why Z-Wave devices are far more interoperable and backward compatible.

Device Availability

There is a vast assortment of both Zigbee and Z-Wave devices on the market right now.  Zigbee standards vary depending on geographical location. For example, Zigbee's frequency range for the US is 2.4GHz, but in some parts of Europe, it might be 968MHz, which is a huge difference.

Z-Wave, on the other hand, has a pretty similar range for most of the world. This is also why you find more Zigbee devices overseas—because vendors in other countries do not have to live by strict alliance standards and have more room to flex their creative muscles.

Many smart home hubs, such as Samsung SmartThings, Homey Pro, and Hubitat, support both Zigbee and Z-Wave devices, so you don't have to choose between them.           

Matter Standard

Matter (previously known as Project CHIP) is an emerging open-source smart home standard backed by major tech companies, including Apple, Google, and Amazon.

Developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance, Matter aims to unify and streamline smart home device communication for better interoperability.

As Matter gains momentum, it is expected to impact the smart home market significantly and could influence the adoption of Zigbee and Z-Wave devices in the future.

As Zigbee is one of the key players supporting Matter, the development of this standard may significantly impact the future of Zigbee-based smart home ecosystems.

For more information on the Matter Standard, check out my article here.

Device Cost

Not much of a difference here, but if you want to get deep into the weeds, Z-Wave devices are a bit more expensive than Zigbee. This is more true for a cheaper device ($10-$500 range), while the price evens out as you get to the higher end of the spectrum.           

I believe this is due to how tightly controlled Z-Wave is. Since Zigbee is open-source, small-scale manufacturers do not need to go through corporate channels to use it in their devices, making these devices cheaper.

Z-Wave performs strict compliance tests to ensure that manufacturers using their technology comply completely with Z-Wave standards. In some cases, manufacturers might even get their silicon chips via the Z-Wave Alliance, making the raw products for their devices more expensive.

Latency

I've discussed speed, but what is more critical in a smart home setup is latency. In the context of a smart home, latency can refer to the delay between giving a command and the appliance reacting to it. For example, if you trigger a command to turn off a light switch, and it takes 3-4s for the light to turn off, then that is latency. Latency can be frustrating and will ruin the cozy smart home feeling you're looking for.

While Zigbee protocol is much faster, Zigbee devices do not necessarily exhibit less latency than Z-Wave. The difference will probably be in milliseconds and not noticeable. This is because latency is not only dependent on the speed of wireless communication but also on factors such as compatibility of devices, power consumption, and reliability of the network.

Zigbee networks may experience more delays due to interference from other devices like Wi-Fi.

Network Size & Design

Z-Wave devices can support up to 232 relaying devices (end nodes) only. This is because of the “four-hop rule” for Z-Wave, which means that instructions can only hop four times from device to device in a Z-Wave network.

Zigbee, on the other hand, can theoretically support up to 65,000 devices by continuously adding repeaters. If you are a smart home buyer, 232 nodes will be enough for you, but for users with much larger houses, Zigbee might be the better choice.

It is worth mentioning that Z-Wave Long Range has a much more extensive range and can support a lot more devices.

Power Requirement

For a long time, Zigbee devices used a lot less power than Z-Wave devices. However, this is changing. With the Z-Wave plus specification, Z-Wave devices' power consumption is now quite close to Zigbee’s. It is worth noting that Z-Wave has a more extensive range, which also adds to its power consumption. 

When it comes to power consumption in both standards, make sure you're comparing apples with apples. For example, if a Zigbee network has a lot more repeaters than Z-Wave, its overall power consumption will be higher. Similarly, if there is a lot of noise on your frequency channel, your devices will end up consuming more power to recognize the same messages.

Z-Wave Plus v2

Z-Wave Plus v2, also known as 700 Series or Gen7, is the latest iteration of Z-Wave technology, which further improves energy efficiency, range, and security.

Devices featuring Z-Wave Plus v2 offer enhanced features like longer battery life, faster communication, and increased range compared to earlier Z-Wave generations.

Additionally, Z-Wave Plus v2 devices support SmartStart, a feature that simplifies the device pairing process, making it easier for users to set up and manage their smart home networks.

As Z-Wave Plus v2 becomes more widely adopted, it will provide smart home users with a more seamless and efficient experience.

Zigbee Green Power

Zigbee Green Power is a feature within the Zigbee 3.0 standard that enables ultra-low-power devices, such as sensors and switches, to operate on energy harvesting or very low-power sources like coin-cell batteries.

By leveraging Zigbee Green Power, smart home devices can reduce their power consumption and extend their battery life, further enhancing energy efficiency in Zigbee-based networks.

Reliability

In general, Z-Wave is considered to be more reliable than Zigbee, primarily due to its lower operating frequency and more tightly controlled ecosystem.

Z-Wave operates in the 900 MHz frequency range, which experiences less interference from other devices and is better at penetrating walls and other obstacles compared to Zigbee, which operates in the 2.4 GHz range, where Wi-Fi and other devices can cause interference.

Additionally, Z-Wave devices are required to undergo a stringent certification process to ensure they comply with Z-Wave standards, resulting in greater interoperability and more consistent performance.

In contrast, while Zigbee is also maintained by an alliance that certifies products, its open-source nature allows for greater variation in device implementation, which can sometimes lead to compatibility and reliability issues.

This is not to say that a well-designed Zigbee network will still not be reliable, just that Z-Wave networks require less design to be more reliable.

Security

Both Zigbee and Z-Wave put a strong emphasis on security to ensure that smart home networks are protected from potential threats and unauthorized access.

Zigbee 3.0 implements AES-128 encryption, which is a widely used and secure encryption standard. It also includes features like secure key establishment and device authentication, ensuring that only authorized devices can join and communicate within the network.

Z-Wave Plus v2 (700 Series) introduces the Security 2 (S2) framework, which provides advanced encryption and device authentication. S2 offers three levels of security: S2 Unauthenticated, S2 Authenticated, and S2 Access Control. These levels provide varying degrees of security depending on the device's role in the network.

The S2 framework also implements Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDH) secure key exchange to protect against eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.

Ecosystems and Compatibility

In the past, Zigbee and Z-Wave devices would typically need a hub to be compatible with other popular smart home ecosystems, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit.

Amazon has released a number of Echo speakers that have integrated Zigbee radios, allowing you to directly control these devices without needing a hub.

As of the time of writing, Google Home and Apple HomeKit have more limited support for Zigbee and Z-Wave devices, requiring additional hardware like a compatible hub (e.g., Hubitat, Aqara, Philips Hue) or a Homebridge setup to enable integration with HomeKit.

Ease of Setup and Management

Both Zigbee and Z-Wave networks are designed to be relatively easy to set up and manage, with user-friendly device pairing processes, network management, and troubleshooting options.

Zigbee devices typically offer touchlink commissioning, allowing users to pair devices by simply bringing them close to each other. This process simplifies device pairing and makes it easier for users to add new devices to their Zigbee network.

Z-Wave's SmartStart feature streamlines the process of adding devices to a Z-Wave network. Users can simply scan a QR code on the device to add it to their network, eliminating the need for manual pairing procedures.

Additionally, both Zigbee and Z-Wave networks can self-heal, meaning that they can automatically reconfigure their mesh topology if devices are added or removed, ensuring optimal performance.

When it comes to network management, both Zigbee and Z-Wave offer tools and features that make it easy to monitor and control devices, as well as troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

Can I Mix and Match Z-Wave & Zigbee Devices?

Yes, you can! Many modern smart home hubs, such as the Aeotec Samsung SmartThings Hub or Hubitat, are capable of communicating with both Zigbee and Z-Wave devices simultaneously. Keep in mind that while you are using both types of devices simultaneously, you still have two distinct networks.

Zigbee devices can only communicate with other Zigbee devices, and so is the case for Z-Wave. Zigbee repeaters can’t be used for a Z-Wave network or vice-versa. This means you will have both Zigbee and Z-Wave networks in your house and a single hub that will communicate with both of them.

It is pretty helpful to have both networks and then decide which device works well for which network. For example, since Z-Wave is more reliable, you can set up alarm systems and smart locks on it.

Conclusion

Both Zigbee and Z-Wave have their advantages and challenges. When making a decision, carefully evaluate your needs and then choose a technology accordingly. Don't forget, with a smart home hub like Hubitat or SmartThings you can mix and match protocols.

Sources

https://www.z-wave.com/

https://csa-iot.org/all-solutions/zigbee/

https://standards.ieee.org/

https://www.silabs.com/wireless/z-wave/global-regions

https://www.iotforall.com/

The post Zigbee vs Z-Wave: Comprehensive Comparison of Smart Home Protocols in 2024 appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Using a Z-Wave-integrated detector, you can program advanced scenes in your home network, such as having lights flash and escape lighting activate if smoke is detected.

You could automatically unlock all smart locks to facilitate people’s exit. If your Z-Wave network is connected to your smartphones, you could push notifications to all devices, alerting them of an emergency situation.

Option 1: Buy a New Smoke Detector

9.3

First Alert Z-Wave Smoke & CO Detector

Top USA PickSmoke Detector + CO Alarm all in one

View Price

9.2

Europa Z-Wave Smoke Detector

Top Europe PickA hard-wearing Z-Wave smoke detector custom-built for the EU market.

View Price

Option 2: Use your old Smoke Detectors!

9.3

Ecolink Z-Wave Plus Wireless Audio Detector

Top Audio DetectorIntensive whole home coverage

View Price

8.8

Amazon Echo 4th Gen

Not a Z-Wave solution, but you could enhance your fire protection with the Alexa Guard feature.

View Price

Option 1: Buy a New Best Z Wave Smoke Detector

Enhance your household protection with a new Z-Wave smoke detector for improved capabilities and real-time notifications. Explore various Z-Wave-incorporated fire detectors in the market with unique features by scrolling down below.

United States

9.3

Top USA Pick

First Alert Z-Wave Smoke & CO Detector

Smoke Detector + CO Alarm all in one

View Price
On Amazon.com

The 2-in-1 Z-Wave Smoke Detector by First Aid combines smoke detection and CO detection in one device.

Top Features

• Can detect both Smoke and Carbon Monoxide.
• Z-Wave compatibility allows for time-sensitive mobile phone notifications if connected with a Z-wave hub.
• Powerful 85dB sound alarm.

Did you know deadly gases and smoke spread more quickly than heat during a fire? That's why getting a smoke detector that also incorporates a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm can make for an enhanced fire protection system.

This 2-in-1 Z-Wave Wireless Smoke Detector & Carbon Monoxide Alarm offers users the advantage of both photoelectric and ionization smoke sensing chambers for rapidly identifying fires.

Photoelectric

According to the National Fire Protection Association, photochemical smoke sensors are ideal for long-smoldering fires. Additionally, First Alert's Z-Wave smoke detector enhances safety by detecting odorless carbon monoxide with its electrochemical sensor.

Loudness

The product features an 85-decibel alarm, ensuring it's easily noticeable. With First Alert's 2-in-1 Smoke Detector's Z-Wave capabilities, you can receive real-time notifications on your mobile phone, allowing quick response teams to reach your house from anywhere, safeguarding lives and minimizing fire-related damage.

Setup

The easy-to-operate alarm includes mounting hardware for a quick placement process in under five minutes. After pushing the test button, inserting 2 AA batteries, and syncing with your Z-Wave smart hub, it's ready to use. Suitable for institutional and residential settings, the alarm complies with fire association codes and standards like UL217, CSFM, NFPA 720, etc.

Ring Alarm Kit

Finally, the Fire Alert 2-in-1 Wireless Smoke Detector & Carbon Monoxide Alarm is also compatible with the Ring Alarm Security Kit. All in all, it's a pretty robust option for users that are unconvinced about their current fire alarm protection set-up.

Europe

9.2

Top Europe Pick

Europa Z-Wave Smoke Detector

A hard-wearing Z-Wave smoke detector custom-built for the EU market.

View Price
On Amazon.co.uk

Heiman's Europa Version Z-Wave Smoke Detector offers users a 868.42 MHz range to suit the European market.

Top Features

• Includes the Z-Wave Plus standard.
• Offers the convenience of instant notifications on the go.
• 3-year battery life with batteries included in the pack.

The alarm is designed for smoking fires and can operate between temperatures of 0° to 40°.

The smoke detector is Z-Wave Plus-compliant and is compatible with several Z-Wave Gateways. It runs on a CR123A lithium battery (included with the alarm) and offers users the advantage of a three-year battery life.

Other notable benefits include an 85dB alarm volume and mobile phone notifications on the go.

Option 2: Use your old Smoke Detectors!

Sometimes, the prospect of buying a new smoke detector for every area of your house can be a little intimidating, if not expensive. However, readers who'd rather find an alternative solution can look into wireless audio detectors for their existing smoke or CO alarm setup.

The best part – if your smoke detectors are interconnected – you may only need one audio detector to bring Z-Wave features to life in your smart home!

9.3

Top Audio Detector

Ecolink Z-Wave Plus Wireless Audio Detector

Intensive whole home coverage

View Price
On Amazon.com

The Ecolink Z-Wave Plus Wireless Audio Detector is a pain-free alternative to replacing an existing fire-alarm setup.

Top Features

• Can work with numerous Z-Wave hubs.
• Capable of monitoring all interconnected fire and CO alarms.
• Offers real-time notifications via Z-Wave connectivity.

The Ecolink FireFighter Z-Wave smoke detector can be a life-saver for homes with interconnected smoke and CO alarms. But why, exactly?

That's simple. The Ecolink Wireless Audio Detector monitors your existing CO and smoke alarms for signs of trouble. It's designed to send signals to your Z-Wave network in case of an emergency, and the Z-Wave network informs you of the danger – no matter where you are – via notifications.

Number of Devices

Homeowners will typically only require one Ecolink Audio Detector for overall coverage. That means you can cut back on costs and effort while still achieving an added layer of protection for your home's fire security setup.

Tech Specs

The product is also compliant with various Z-Wave controllers (like SmartThings) and doesn't require too much work in terms of network inclusion. You can connect your audio detector to your Z-Wave controller by initiating inclusion mode on the hub and pressing the ‘learn' button on the audio sensor for 10 to 15 seconds. It's that simple!

Battery Life

The Ecolink Wireless Audio Detector also offers users the added convenience of 5-years' worth of battery life (via a CR123A battery). The product also includes a 3-year warranty for material defects. 

Finally, installing the Ecolink FireFighter Audio Detector is straightforward enough – even for beginners to handle. The product comes equipped with all the materials needed for installation, such as the mounting bracket, screws, adhesive tape, etc.

Algorithm

The Ecolink Wireless Audio Detector is an affordable alternative to replacing all fire/smoke alarms. It comes with advanced software for professional accuracy, minimizing false alarms. Consider this listener to enhance your fire-alarm protection without the need for costly new detectors.

8.8

Amazon Echo 4th Gen

Not a Z-Wave solution, but you could enhance your fire protection with the Alexa Guard feature.

View Price
On Amazon.com

While not a Z-Wave solution, if you currently have a SmartThings or Hubitat implementation that includes Alexa, you could activate Alexa Guard to listen out for sirens from your existing detectors.

Top Features

• Able to detect sounds of smoke and CO alarms.
• Immediate Smart Alert notifications on phone in case of sound detection.
• Offers convenience of home and away mode.

Alexa Guard is a configurable feature on Echo devices that listens for sounds indicating trouble. It can detect smoke or CO detectors, sending instant smart alerts to your phone when alarms go off. You can listen to a 10-second sound byte with the notification and decide whether to call emergency services. In summary, you can use an Echo device to actively monitor each room for potentially dangerous sounds.

Best Z Wave Smoke Detectors: The Verdict

Z-Wave functionality can enhance the protection offered by smoke detectors through interconnected scenes, instant notifications and more. If you're hesitant about replacing all your detectors, consider a wireless audio detector to save time and money. Thanks for reading our article outlining the best z wave smoke detectors.

Sources

Vesternet

Smart Home Perfected

The post Best Z Wave Smoke Detectors, Alarms & Sensors in 2023 appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Note: Jasco provided me with a free sample of the product for the purposes of this review.

9.5

1.

Enbrighten No-Neutral Z-Wave Smart Dimmer Switch

Auto-detects which line is carrying the load

View Price
On Amazon.com

Add-On

3-Way / 4-Way / 5-Way Add-On Switch

View Price

Smart dimmer switches are great for folks looking to upgrade their lighting controls for hallways, stairwells, or large spaces. However, the Enbrighten Z-Wave No-Neutral Smart Dimmer Switch takes the convenience one step further with no need to run a neutral wire.

Top Features

• Reduced width to fit tight boxes
• Includes 2 Paddles
• Fully dimmable from 0-100%

Once you pair your Enbrighten Switch with a Z-Wave hub, you can look forward to features like programmed settings and voice control via Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa—all without a neutral wire. Then there's the fact that this switch comes equipped with Z-Wave Plus, which offers a greater coverage range and lower power requirements. Finally, this switch also offers SimpleWire technology that can auto-detect line/load terminals and supports daisy-chaining for multi-switch arrangements.

Decision Factors

On/Off & Dimmable

There's not much point in upgrading to a smart switch if all you can with it is turn your lights on and off—that stuff's for the regular buttons. 

Thankfully, that's not a concern with the Enbrighten Smart Switch. Apart from the standard on and off function, you can also use the smart switch to dim your lights by pressing the right side of the paddle button.

Here's how it works—you can press the top-side of the button for a few seconds to increase brightness and press down on the lower side to dim the lights to your needs.

No Neutral Wire Required

Many a buyer has had to forego buying their favorite smart dimmer switches due to the requirement of neutral wiring. But, if your smart dimmer switch of choice is the Enbrighten Z-Wave switch, you don't have to stress because this product can conveniently control most lighting fixtures without a neutral wire.

Oh, and it's also certified to operate at low wattage (as low as 2 W) to ensure your LEDs, CFLs, halogens, or incandescent lights can dim without any difficulties.

QuickFit

One common woe that we often hear from smart switch enthusiasts is that the build of the switch sometimes makes it impossible to fit in old-school switch boxes. However, apparently, somebody at Jasco was paying attention because the Enbrighten Smart Switch comes equipped with the QuickFit technology that reduces the switch's housing depth by a whopping 20%

Add to that the fact that there are no break-off tabs, and you'll realize that this product is ideal for multi-gang scenarios and old-style switch boxes.

SimpleWire

Let's face it; not everyone is a whizz when it comes to wiring and installation. Conversely, some people aren't too comfortable handling the wiring of switches because of the hazards involved. But that's where the Enbrighten Smart Switch's SimpleWire technology can make your life simpler.

Not only can this product auto-detect line/load terminals, but there's also no need for perplexing maneuvers like wrapping wires around terminals. Additionally, the switch also supports daisy-chaining for multi-way installations.

Z-Wave Plus

Z-Wave is a wireless communication tech that relies on low power waves and helps synchronize wiring without physical installation troubles. Any product that features Z-Wave technology offers convenient features like mesh networking, auto status updates, and two-way communication.

The Enbrighten Smart Dimmer switch features Z-Wave Plus, which means you'll get all the advantages of the previous program, with enhanced capabilities that make for a smoother user experience. Some of the added benefits include 250% RF Bandwidth, enhanced battery life, over-the-air firmware updates, and a coverage range of up to 150 m.

Compatible Bulbs & Load

One factor buyers generally need to pay close attention to for smart dimmer switches is compatible bulbs and load. There's little point in installing a smart switch if it's incapable of handling your lighting arrangements.

However, the Smart Dimmer Switch by Enbrighten can control most types of bulbs, including LEDs, CFLs, halogens, and incandescent light bulbs. What's more, the product is certified to function at a minimum wattage of 2 W and a maximum load of 600 W and 300 W for incandescent and LED/CFL light bulbs.

Voice Control, Remote Control & Schedule

The Enbrighten Smart Dimmer Switch also offers users the advantage of features like voice control, remote control, and scheduling. That may not sound like much, but these three traits can go a long way in making your life problem-free. 

For instance, with voice control capabilities, you can use your voice assistants like Amazon Alexa to control your lights without having to move an inch. On the other hand, you can manage your lighting from anywhere thanks to remote control via the app or set up schedules to work around your timetable.

Custom Scenes

It can get a little annoying to manually set your preferred brightness setting over and over, even with a dimmer switch.

But, if the smart dimmer switch you purchase comes along with custom scene-setting capabilities, you can activate your favored light setting with the push of a button. That's where the Enbrighten Dimmer Switch's four adjustable settings come in handy, along with advanced configuration settings for minimum and maximum dim levels.

Single Pole, Three-Way & Four-Way Support

Three-way and four-way switches in a circuit allow users to control any given light fixture from any of those switches. This makes them ideal for large spaces, stairwells, hallways, and even garages. These switches offer buyers comfort and convenience by not having to walk to a singular button to turn the lights on or off.

You'll be happy to learn that the Enbrighten Smart Switch by Jasco works with single-pole installations and can also be used in 3,4 or 5-way wiring configurations.

Interchangeable Paddles

The No-Neutral Z-Wave Switch by Jasco offers rocker-style paddles that'll go with all types of home decor—be it contemporary or traditional. Besides that, the product also provides buyers with the option of choosing between white, light almond, black, brown, and ivory to ensure the switches they buy don't stand out like a sore thumb in their living space. All you need to do is pick the color that matches your decor the most!

Wiring

Suppose you're still a little concerned with the wiring involved in setting up the Enbrighten Dimmer Switch. In that case, you should know that apart from the benefit of the SimpleWire technology, the product also comes equipped with a high-detailed and easy-to-follow instruction manual (complete with wiring diagrams for single and multi-location wiring).

Installation

Any veteran DIY-er will tell you that the installation for switches can get pretty challenging, even with user manuals to refer to. That shouldn't be a problem with the Enbrighten No-Neutral Switch, thanks to the product's SimpleWire and QuickFit technology. You'll also have the benefit of referring to the product's manual and specifications (with wiring diagrams) in case you get stuck. Once the wiring is taken care of, all you need to do is pair the switch with your Z-Wave Plus compatible hub, and you're good to go.

Common Questions Relating to Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Dimmer Switch

Enbrighten Z-Wave Switch: The Verdict

Not only is the product one of the very few Z-Wave smart switch options that don't require neutral wiring, but it also comes equipped with a five-year product warranty.

The Enbrigthen No-Neutral Z-Wave Smart Dimmer Switch packs in some heavyweight features at an affordable price so it's well worth a look?

9.5

1. Enbrighten No-Neutral Z-Wave Smart Dimmer Switch

Auto-detects which line is carrying the load

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Add-On

3-Way / 4-Way / 5-Way Add-On Switch

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Smart dimmer switches are great for folks looking to upgrade their lighting controls for hallways, stairwells, or large spaces. However, the Enbrighten Z-Wave No-Neutral Smart Dimmer Switch takes the convenience one step further with no need to run a neutral wire.

Top Features

• Reduced width to fit tight boxes
• Includes 2 Paddles
• Fully dimmable from 0-100%

Sources

Jasco

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