Wireless control of mains outlets -- which system to use?

[sophiecentaur]

When we moved into our last house, some enthusiast had wired a group of (5A) sockets around our sitting room to a light switch. Suitable 'mood' lighting was easy with several table lamps and up-lighters. We have moved to a house with just regular 13A outlets around the rooms and I'm looking for a method to switch them on and off remotely.
Alexa (WiFi based) claims to do the job but in many ways, it's a bit over-kill. There's also a possible compatibility issue (?) because all my stuff is Apple. There are also Bluetooth (Afaics) systems which are relatively dumb, compared with a proper networked system.
I'd bet that there are PF members who have been through this and I'd appreciate your collected wisdom on the matter and your experience.
I want cheap but reliable - don't we all?

 

[nsaspook]

This is for the US but it seems there are UK products. All of my home-automation wireless switches use Matter/Thread as the control fabric. TAPCO and many others sells matter compatible switches (with a real relay) as does EVE (relay switches and power monitors in one) I use their products but not their control ecosystem.

You need a thread compatible hub. I use Home Assistant (free but needs a compatible computer host). It integrates with Google home, Alexa, and other control systems.
https://www.home-assistant.io/integrations/matter/


https://www.physicsforums.com/threa...tion-and-control-system.1079866/#post-7256462

 

[sophiecentaur]

Thanks - quick response. I'll look into that. I may have problems with my Apple stuff, though. We're off on a short holiday but I will get started on a strategy.

 

[nsaspook]

Thanks - quick response. I'll look into that. I may have problems with my Apple stuff, though. We're off on a short holiday but I will get started on a strategy.

It's compatible with the Apple universe.


It's only gotten better since this video.