How to Use Smart Lights

Replace your old light bulbs with smart bulbs and control them using an app on your phone.

Steps

  1. 1

    Buy smart light bulbs

    that fit your existing lamps and light fixtures. Common types are Philips Hue, Wyze, or Kasa.

  2. 2

    Screw in the smart bulb

    and turn the light switch on. The bulb blinks to show it is ready to pair.

  3. 3

    Download the bulb brand app

    from the App Store or Google Play and create an account with your email.

  4. 4

    Tap "Add Device"

    or the plus icon in the app and follow the prompts to connect the bulb to your wifi.

  5. 5

    Group your bulbs by room

    in the app so you can turn off all the living room lights with one command.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do smart lights work with a regular light switch?Show
Yes, but the switch must stay in the on position for the smart bulb to receive power and app commands.
Can smart lights be dimmed?Show
Most smart LED bulbs are dimmable through the app, even with a standard non dimmable wall switch.
Do smart lights use more electricity?Show
Smart LEDs use less energy than regular bulbs. The small amount of standby power is barely noticeable on your bill.
What happens if the wifi goes out?Show
The bulbs stay on or off based on their last state but you cannot control them remotely until wifi returns.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated .