In-Wall Fan Switches
Smart in-wall fan switches replace your existing in-wall switches so that you can control any connected ceiling fan remotely from an interactive service platform. What's great about a smart in-wall switch is that it will really not appear any different from a standard in-wall switch, thereby allowing you to maintain any aesthetic or appearance. All the differences will be internal. You will be able to include your smart in-wall fan switch with your smart home network so that the connected ceiling fan can be operated remotely. Some in-wall fan switches may even be able to support multiple ceiling fans if needed. Remember to keep in mind that many in-wall fan switches are interchangeable with in-wall lighting switches, and they can be used to control a hardwired lighting load if needed. Check the specifications for the in-wall switch you intend on using to find out if this indeed the case.
Most of the smart in-wall fan switches sold on the Alarm Grid website use Z-Wave Plus technology for connecting with a central hub or controller. This is great, as most of the security systems we monitor have some way of using Z-Wave technology. You can make your home security system the central hub for your smart home network. Once you have your in-wall fan switch installed, take the necessary steps to program it into your central hub or controller. With Z-Wave devices, you always want to clear the device from the network before attempting to enroll it. This will ensure that it can pair with the new network successfully. You want to do this even if the device is brand-new and freshly removed from the package. Many Z-Wave devices are enrolled with a network for factory testing purposes.
Before you can enroll a smart in-wall fan switch with your Z-Wave network, you must first install the device. You will want to cut the power at the breaker before attempting this process. In most cases, you will need to remove the existing in-wall switch. Then install the new device in its place. This isn't too difficult, and it can normally be completed using just a screwdriver. After making all of the necessary connections, you can then restore power at the breaker so that current is once again flowing. You will want to test the new in-wall switch and make sure that it can power the connected fan. Or if you are using the device to control a hardwired lighting load, make sure it can turn the lights ON and OFF. You can then program the device so that it is connected with your Z-Wave network. This is important for providing remote control and operation for your ceiling fan. Once properly configured, you will be able to control your ceiling fan from anywhere in the world using a mobile app on your phone. You can also set up smart scenes so that the fan activates automatically based on a schedule or with certain system events.