How to make a decorative bulb smart: The easy and slightly less easy way

On our most recent IoT Podcast episode, a caller left us a message on the voicemail hotline with a unique question: He has decorative bulbs that he’d like to control without installing a smart switch. It turns out that this is relatively easy, although we do discuss why he might want to try a smart switch.

The simple way to go is to buy a smart socket with Wi-Fi. This is basically a small extender that you screw into your current light fixture and then insert your regular bulbs into the socket. 

We’ve tested one from iDevices, which costs around $37, and it does the job. We’re not fans of the LED light on this model because it would clash with a decorative bulb. But a search on Amazon for “smart light socket” will offer a range of choices from many companies, typically at lower prices.

We can’t speak to all of the brand names or the app experiences and digital assistant integrations, so you may want to read the product reviews and features before buying.

The more involved approach is to install a smart switch for the light fixture. Don’t let wiring scare you. Installing one of these isn’t too difficult these days.

Indeed, we like the C by GE three-wire smart dimmer switch because it’s easy to install and it doesn’t require a neutral wire. If your home has neutral wires, there’s also a four-wire version.

Just make sure you cut power to the circuit you’re working on before swapping out switches.

To hear the question in full, as well as our discussion on the topic, tune in below to the IoT Podcast: