Welcome to our article, "Best Lighting & Electrical for Homeowners 2024." We're thrilled to have you here, as we know how busy your schedules can be. Thank you for taking the time to join us today.
In this article, we will explore the latest trends in home lighting and electrical solutions, with a focus on energy efficiency, cost savings, and safety. We'll provide you with shopping tips to help you make informed decisions when upgrading your home's lighting and electrical systems.
As new homeowners, it's essential to be aware of electricity tips to prevent potential hazards and ensure the safety of you and your family. We'll discuss the benefits of smart outdoor lighting, such as programmable lights that never leave you coming home to a dark house, and help you save money on energy bills. Additionally, we'll cover the importance of maximizing natural light during the day, installing energy-efficient ceiling fans, and the advantages of switching to eco-friendly lighting solutions like LED and CFL bulbs. So, let's dive in and learn how to enhance your home's lighting and electrical systems while making sustainable and cost-effective choices for 2024 and beyond.
Philips Hue Smart Lighting System: Best Smart Lighting for Home Integration
Philips Hue Bluetooth LED Lightstrip Plus Base White -- $72.99(Best Buy)
Bridge - Unlock the Full Potential of Hue - Multi-Room and Out-of-Home C... -- $44(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Philips Hue Smart Lighting System is chosen for its advanced compatibility with various smart home ecosystems, customizable lighting options, and the ability to control your lights remotely. It offers a seamless and enhanced lighting experience that can be tailored to your preferences and routines, making it a sophisticated choice for smart home enthusiasts.
Who It's For
This system is ideal for tech-savvy individuals or families looking to invest in a smart home setup that offers convenience, customization, and control. It's perfect for those who appreciate the ability to adjust their lighting to different moods or activities and want to integrate their lights with other smart devices. However, it may not be the best fit for those on a tight budget or who prefer simpler lighting solutions.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Extensive compatibility with smart home systems including Matter | ❌ Higher initial cost compared to traditional lighting solutions |
✅ Customizable lighting options for various moods and activities | ❌ Requires additional purchases like the Hue HDMI Sync Box for full feature use |
✅ Remote and automated control with the ability to add up to 50 lights and accessories | ❌ Dependent on a stable internet connection for some features |
Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch: Best Smart Lighting Upgrade
Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch 10 Pack Light Almond -- $599.5(Amazon)
Caseta Smart Home Dimmer Switch, Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Th... -- $59.95(Amazon)
Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch 2 Count Starter Kit ... -- $135.95(Amazon)
Diva Smart Dimmer Switch with Wallplate for Caséta Smart Lighting | No N... -- $73.9(Amazon)
Lutron P-BDG-PKG1WS Caseta Smart Switch Kit White -- $75.95(Amazon)
Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch Starter Kit with Caseta Smart Hub an... -- $79.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch is selected for its ability to transform a standard lighting setup into a smart, energy-efficient system. It offers the convenience of adjusting lighting levels from anywhere using a mobile device, and it's compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Its easy installation process and compatibility with a wide range of bulbs make it a versatile choice for modernizing home lighting.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for homeowners looking to upgrade to smart lighting for enhanced convenience, energy savings, and modern home automation. It's particularly well-suited for those who already have or are planning to invest in a smart home ecosystem and are comfortable with the additional purchase of a compatible hub.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Easy to install in about 15 minutes with no neutral wire required, making it ideal for older homes | ❌ Requires the purchase of a compatible hub (Smart Bridge) for full functionality, which is an additional expense |
✅ Compatible with over 1,000 bulbs and can control up to 17 bulbs, ensuring versatility across different lighting setups | ❌ Coordinating wallplate and Pico remote are sold separately, potentially increasing the overall cost |
✅ Offers multiple control options, including Pico remote, voice commands via smart assistants, and a free smartphone app for convenient light adjustment | ❌ May require a learning curve for users new to smart home technology and app-based controls |
Nest Protect Smoke + CO Alarm: Best Smart Smoke and CO Detector
Google Nest Protect - Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detector - Battery... -- $411(Home Depot)
Google Nest Protect - Smoke Alarm - Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide D... -- $129.99(Amazon)
Nest Protect - Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detector - Wired - 4 Pack -- $536(Home Depot)
Nest Protect 2nd Generation Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm -- $238(Arbor)
Nest Protect - Smoke Alarm - Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector... -- $119(Amazon)
Google - Nest Protect 2nd Generation (Battery) Smart Smoke/Carbon Monoxi... -- $129.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Nest Protect Smoke + CO Alarm is a sophisticated safety device that combines smoke and carbon monoxide detection with smart technology. It offers peace of mind through real-time alerts on your phone, ensuring you're informed of any dangers in your home, even when you're away. Its advanced features like voice alerts, app silence, and a split-spectrum sensor make it a comprehensive safety solution.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for homeowners who value connected smart home systems and want the convenience of monitoring their home's safety remotely. It's also great for those who appreciate advanced safety features and are willing to invest in a higher-priced, high-quality alarm system that offers a decade of protection.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Integrates with smart home systems for remote alerts | ❌ Higher price point than standard detectors |
✅ Advanced sensors for both smoke and carbon monoxide | ❌ Requires Wi-Fi for full functionality |
✅ Voice alerts and smartphone app control for convenience | ❌ May need multiple units for larger homes |
Ring Video Doorbell 4: Best Refurbished Smart Doorbell

Certified Refurbished Ring Video Doorbell 4 – improved 4-second color vi... -- $119.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance their home security. It offers improved 4-second color video previews, which allow users to get a glimpse of what triggered the motion alert even before the video was fully recorded. The device is easy to install and comes with enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring a more reliable connection. As a certified refurbished product, it provides all these features at a more affordable price point, making it a smart investment for those wanting to keep an eye on their doorstep.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for homeowners or renters who want to increase their home security and have the convenience of monitoring their front door from anywhere. It's particularly useful for those who receive frequent visitors or packages and want to communicate with them directly through the two-way talk feature. However, it may not be the best fit for individuals without a stable Wi-Fi connection or those who are not comfortable with potential additional costs for video storage.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Improved 4-second color video previews | ❌ Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection |
✅ Easy installation and enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity | ❌ May incur additional costs for video storage |
✅ Two-way talk feature for direct communication | ❌ Refurbished status may concern some buyers |
Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control: Advanced Comfort & Energy Savings
Ecobee- Ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat -- $49.99(BGE Marketplace)
SmartThermostat with Voice Control - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Work... -- $249(Amazon)
ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced -- $175.75(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control stands out for its advanced features that enhance home comfort and energy efficiency. Its ability to learn and adapt to your routine, combined with the included SmartSensor, ensures your comfort by adjusting the temperature based on occupancy detection. The integration of voice control through Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant adds a layer of convenience, allowing for hands-free operation. Its ENERGY STAR certification and potential to save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs make it an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for smart home enthusiasts.
Who It's For
This thermostat is ideal for homeowners looking to upgrade their living experience with smart technology. It's perfect for those who value convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced comfort in their living spaces. However, it may not be the best fit for individuals who are not tech-savvy or those hesitant about the potential need for professional installation if unfamiliar with HVAC systems.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ SmartSensor adjusts temperature for comfort and energy savings | ❌ May require professional installation for those unfamiliar with HVAC systems |
✅ Voice control via Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant for hands-free operation | ❌ Higher upfront cost compared to basic thermostats |
✅ Saves up to 26% on heating and cooling costs annually | ❌ Dependent on Wi-Fi for smart features, which may be a limitation for some users |
Kasa Smart Light Bulb by TP-Link: Versatile Smart Lighting Solution

Light Bulbs, Full Color Changing Dimmable Smart WiFi Bulbs Compatible wi... -- $27.99(Amazon)
TP-Link Kl135p2 Kasa Smart Light Bulb, Multicolor 2 Pack -- $21.99(B&H Photo-Video-Audio)
TP-Link KL110P4 Kasa Smart Light Bulb, Dimmable, 4-Pack -- $36.09(eBay - no1jiggaman)
TP-Link Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Light Bulb, Multicolor -- $15.36(Transparent)
Why We Picked It
The Kasa Smart Light Bulb by TP-Link stands out for its ease of setup and versatile control through a mobile app, offering users the ability to adjust brightness, change colors, and set schedules directly from their smartphones. With features like dimmable lighting, 16 million color options, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Home for voice control, these bulbs are designed to enhance any home environment. The ability to monitor energy usage and set lights to automatically adjust with natural light patterns further elevates the user experience, making it a smart choice for those looking to add convenience and ambiance to their living spaces.
Who It's For
Ideal for tech enthusiasts and homeowners looking to upgrade their living spaces with smart, energy-efficient lighting solutions that can be controlled remotely. Perfect for those who enjoy customizing their home's ambiance for different occasions or simply want the convenience of voice-controlled lighting. However, it may not be the best fit for users heavily invested in smart home ecosystems other than Alexa or Google Home due to limited compatibility.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Easy setup and control via mobile app | ❌ Limited compatibility with certain smart home ecosystems |
✅ Dimmable and color-changing features with 16 million colors | ❌ Requires 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network connection |
✅ Voice control with Alexa and Google Home | ❌ Operating temperature and humidity limitations |
Wemo WiFi Smart Plug: Best Entry-Level Smart Home Upgrade
Wemo - Mini WiFi Smart Plug - White -- $54.99(Amazon)
Wemo - Smart Plug with Thread -- $29.99(Best Buy)
Wemo Control Switch WiFi Smart Plug F7C060 -- $24.99(eBay)
Wemo WiFi Smart Plug 3-Pack -- $38.66(Outlet Overflow Karl)
WeMo WiFi Outdoor Smart Plug - Voice Control Works With Alexa, Hey Googl... -- $106.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Wemo WiFi Smart Plug is an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their home into a smart living space without replacing existing appliances. It offers the convenience of remote control and scheduling, making it easier to manage your devices from anywhere. Its compatibility with major smart assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri adds to its appeal, allowing for voice control and integration into existing smart home ecosystems.
Who It's For
This smart plug is best suited for individuals or families who want to dip their toes into home automation without significant investment. It's also ideal for those who enjoy the convenience of scheduling and remotely controlling their appliances, as well as for people who are concerned about home security and would like to simulate occupancy with randomized light schedules.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Convenient, compact design | ❌ Only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks |
✅ Ability to schedule lights and appliances | ❌ May require additional purchases for full home coverage |
✅ Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri for voice control | ❌ Price may be a consideration for the multi-pack options |
Sengled Smart LED Multicolor Starter Kit: Best Budget-Friendly Smart Lighting Starter Kit
Sengled Smart LED Multicolor A19 Starter Kit 60W Equivalent Bulbs 2 Ligh... -- $26.75(Amazon)
Smart LED Multicolor Starter Kit + Light Strip Bundle -- $62.79(Amazon)
Sengled - Smart LED A19 Starter Kit - Multicolor -- $24.95(eBay - estatetreasuresbyalana)
Smart Light Bulb Starter Kit, Smart Bulbs that Work with Alexa, Google H... -- $26.75(Amazon)
Sengled Smart Bluetooth Mesh LED Multicolor A19 Bulb (4-Pack) -- $44.99(Walmart - T.I.J. DEALS)
Why We Picked It
The Sengled Smart LED Multicolor Starter Kit is selected for its affordability and versatility in smart home lighting. It offers a wide range of colors and dimming options, making it a great choice for those looking to enhance their home ambiance or dive into smart home technology without a hefty investment.
Who It's For
This starter kit is ideal for tech enthusiasts and homeowners who are new to smart lighting and want to experiment with color and mood settings in their space. It's also suitable for those who are comfortable with adding another device to their home network.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Cost-effective entry into smart lighting | ❌ Requires a hub that must be connected to the router |
✅ Color-changing and dimmable LED bulbs | ❌ May not be as feature-rich as more expensive smart lighting systems |
✅ Compatible with major smart home platforms like Google Assistant, Alexa, and SmartThings | ❌ Limited to two bulbs in the basic starter kit |
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock: Top Smart Lock for Enhanced Security

Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)– Fits Your Existing Deadbolt in Minute... -- $171.55(Amazon)
August - Wi-Fi Smart Lock + Smart Keypad - Matte BLACK. -- $249.99(August Home)
Smart Lock + Connect, Silver -- $147.25(Amazon)
August 3rd Generation Technology Smart Lock - Dark Gray -- $158.99(Walmart - DropAir)
August - Smart Lock + Connect - Satin Nickel -- $189.99(Wayfair)
Why We Picked It
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock stands out for its ability to enhance home security and convenience without compromising the aesthetic appeal of your front door. Its compatibility with existing deadbolts, easy installation, and seamless integration with smart home ecosystems make it a top choice. The lock's ability to grant access remotely, auto-lock/unlock features, and the option for biometric verification through the app cater to a modern, connected lifestyle. Its recognition by reputable tech reviewers further solidifies its position as a leading smart lock solution.
Who It's For
Ideal for homeowners looking for a smart, secure, and convenient way to manage access to their home. It's perfect for those who appreciate technology and want to integrate their home security with their smart home devices. However, it might not be the best fit for individuals uncomfortable with DIY installation or those on a tight budget.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
✅ Easy to install on any door, retrofitting your existing deadbolt in minutes | ❌ Installation may be challenging for those not mechanically inclined |
✅ Built-in Wi-Fi for seamless integration with smart home systems and voice assistants | ❌ Pricier compared to some other smart lock options on the market |
✅ Ability to grant access remotely, track entry and exit, and auto-lock/unlock for added convenience and security | ❌ Requires a separate purchase of a Smart Keypad for code-based entry |
Thanks for reading! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you find the best lighting and electrical solutions for your home.