Smart Ceiling Fan Switches

If you’re like me and have an older fan with a pull chain that doesn’t have an electronic motor, you can still get it to work with the help of some smart hardware. I’ve been testing a couple of different Z-Wave devices that are easy to install and work great. They can be used with a variety of hubs, including the Alarm Grid security panel.

The GE Enbrighten Z-Wave plus Smart Ceiling Fan Switch 14287 is the first device I tried and it worked great. It can be installed in place of any standard single-pole in-wall switch and enables wireless control of your existing ceiling fan. It also supports lighting control, but you would need to install a separate light fixture to take advantage of that feature.

You can use it with the new and improved Z-Wave 500 series hubs from Z-Wave Alliance members and you can also control it using your smartphone, tablet or PC. You can adjust the fan speed or set a timed event. You can even create a custom scene that controls your fan and lights at the same time.

The Zooz Double S2 authenticated switch can be controlled by any Z-Wave certified gateway controller and supports OTA firmware updates. It is a simple installation and works in either a 2-pole or 3-way set up. It also works in a virtual 3-way with no direct connection to the other switches for more creative applications and uses.