Question about smart switches

[randomplaydo]

I'm in an apartment where we will be (hopefully) for an extended period of time. Because we have crazy high ceilings, replacing some of the fixture bulbs with smart bulbs will just be a huge pain in the ass. Instead, I want to replace a couple of smart switches for the entrance lights.

But here's the thing, because it's multi-level, we have a switch at the top and bottom of each staircase. Flip the switch at the bottom of the stairs to turn the light on, walk upstairs, flip the switch at the top of the stairs to turn the light off....rinse and repeat. I'd like to automate some of that for when we return home, when we're out, etc.

My question is, in order to install a Lutron (or similar smart switch) would I need to replace both the top and bottom switch for each light, or would things still work if I only replaced one of the switches, or would I have to replace both the top AND the bottom for each light I wanted to automate?

 

[BrettStah]

You'll need to change both switches. FWIW, Lutron requires a hub. Leviton sells switches that don't require a hub.

http://www.leviton.com/en/products/lighting-controls/decora-smart-with-homekit-technology

You'd need one DD0SR-DLZ and one DD0SR-1Z.

 

[Tripinbillie]

I'm in an apartment where we will be (hopefully) for an extended period of time. Because we have crazy high ceilings, replacing some of the fixture bulbs with smart bulbs will just be a huge pain in the ass. Instead, I want to replace a couple of smart switches for the entrance lights.

But here's the thing, because it's multi-level, we have a switch at the top and bottom of each staircase. Flip the switch at the bottom of the stairs to turn the light on, walk upstairs, flip the switch at the top of the stairs to turn the light off....rinse and repeat. I'd like to automate some of that for when we return home, when we're out, etc.

My question is, in order to install a Lutron (or similar smart switch) would I need to replace both the top and bottom switch for each light, or would things still work if I only replaced one of the switches, or would I have to replace both the top AND the bottom for each light I wanted to automate?

Just went through this on Friday with Lutron caseta:
http://www.casetawireless.com/Documents/0301710 - 3-way.pdf

FWIW, my implementation is paired with traditional toggle switch (last three pages above link)

 

[randomplaydo]

Thanks guys. I think I'll skip this for now. It starts to become cost prohibitive for a feature that isn't exactly a necessity.
[doublepost=1511284779][/doublepost]Actually, I take it back. After looking through those Lutron instructions this might be a thing. I didn't know you could simply unwire one of the switches and install the remote in its place. That actually solves my problem and the remote comes with most of the Lutron kits I've been seeing. In that case, I'll only need two kits.

Thanks!

 

[cynics]

Thanks guys. I think I'll skip this for now. It starts to become cost prohibitive for a feature that isn't exactly a necessity.
[doublepost=1511284779][/doublepost]Actually, I take it back. After looking through those Lutron instructions this might be a thing. I didn't know you could simply unwire one of the switches and install the remote in its place. That actually solves my problem and the remote comes with most of the Lutron kits I've been seeing. In that case, I'll only need two kits.

Thanks!

I've been using Leviton HomeKit switches because I don't want another hub, or batteries, and dimmable at all locations.

However skimming the directions of the Lutron you can use an existing 3 way switch in combination with the Caseta Wireless switch. Basically you'll just need to make a 3 way switch a single pole and send a constant 120v to the wireless switch.

Depending on their kits you could go even cheaper if they offer a hub + 1 switch.

 

[vondo]

Don't forget to take photos of the existing wiring before you do this so that you can put it back before you leave.