In a recent episode of the IoT Podcast, a listener named Michael sought advice on enhancing his under cabinet light strips, specifically the smart LIFX variety. He was interested in adding a switch or another smart option, while also using SmartThings and not having a neutral wire for the switch.
For Michael and others in similar situations, there are a few viable solutions. Following a kitchen remodel that included standard light strips, I faced a comparable challenge. My under cabinet lights plug into a standard outlet controlled by a switch. I replaced the existing switch with a Lutron Caseta switch, which is a straightforward approach, though Michael would need a different brand suited for his setup.
We discovered a GE smart dimming switch priced around $50 on Amazon, which does not require a neutral wire. This switch would integrate with Michael's SmartThings system, allowing manual control. Alternatively, a non-dimming version of the same switch is available for $33.
Thinking creatively, a smart outlet could also work for Michael's under cabinet lights, as many come equipped with buttons to turn the power on and off. However, if the outlet is concealed inside a cabinet, this may not be the most convenient option.
Another possibility is using a programmable button since LIFX integrates with SmartThings. The Flic Smart Button, sold in a three-pack for approximately $80, could serve this purpose. One button could control the under cabinet lights, while the additional buttons are available for future use. A consideration is that this solution relies on cloud-based integration; if the home internet goes down, the button will not function.
There are numerous options available to make under cabinet lights smarter, whether they are already smart or not. For a detailed discussion of Michael's question, listen to the IoT Podcast episode.
