What does the Lightwave rf Lighting Starter Kit do?!
This starter kit contains everything you need to start automating your homes lights. The great thing about this solution is it retrofits your existing light switch and works with most existing lights and fittings.
Due to the way Lightwave works it has an impressive range, meaning the hub can be 15m away from the switch. Unlike ZWave, Zigbee or WiFi with shorter ranges.
How easy is it to setup?
Setup requires basic DIY, as you need to replace your existing switch – if you are unsure please seek professional help. The switch is installed like any ‘normal’ light switch – we did it easily.
You also need to setup the hub and app. Setting up the hub was easy and the app guides you through the setup in a few steps.
What’s the connectivity?
Lightwave rf works with an impressive list of integrations, including:
- Amazon Alexa
- Apple HomeKit
- Google Assistant
These then connect into the scenes and features allowing you to control via voice or the control app, for example Apple Home.
We tested it with Alexa and the command was instantly completed with zero lag.
Lightwave Lighting & Power Starter Kit (Smart Series)
How much does this the Lightwave starter kit cost?
£185 – the good thing is once you have the hub in the starter kit you can buy additional switches from only £59.99. This is reasonable when compared to other smart light solutions, for example Philips Hue.
The switch comes in stainless steel or white, it also includes a handy spacer for switches with a shallow back box.
What’s it like living with it?
Great – the app is full of features including:
- Automation – If you have additional lightwave products like sensors they can be used to automate. As well as a rules and timers.
- Scenes – Allowing you to easily set your favourite scene for TV or reading.
- Schedules – Great for security if you are away on holiday and want to simulate occupancy and make people think you are home.
- Wake Up – Creating gentle wake up routines
One slight frustration was checking if the switch is compatible with existing light fittings, they do have a feature on their website however its not very extensive.
The range is as impressive as advertised, with no issues having the hub quite a distance from the switch.
What are our final thoughts?
This is a different approach to smart lighting and prevents the problem most smart lights have, that when the switch is off the bulb becomes dumb.
Where this solution really comes into its own is it connects to the rest of the Lightwave range, allowing heating, power and presence automation.