Smart Home — FAQ
Will smart bulbs work in enclosed porch fixtures?
Yes, but verify operating temperature ratings. Enclosed fixtures trap heat, shortening lifespan. Choose bulbs rated for 140°F+ ambient temperature and derate lumens by 15% due to heat throttling.
Do dusk-to-dawn sensors work under porch roofs?
Most sensors require direct sky exposure. Under-roof mounting delays activation 15-30 minutes past sunset. Position bulbs near fixture edges or choose high-sensitivity models designed for shaded mounting.
Can I use smart bulbs without internet?
Dusk-to-dawn sensors work offline permanently. WiFi bulbs lose remote access but retain on/off functionality via wall switch. Schedules and colors require cloud connectivity; local control resumes when internet returns.
What's the lifespan difference between sensor and WiFi bulbs?
Sensor bulbs last 15,000-25,000 hours due to simpler electronics. WiFi bulbs typically rate 15,000-20,000 hours. Real-world porch longevity depends more on temperature cycling than connectivity type.
Are these bright enough for security cameras?
800 lumens minimum for 720p cameras; 1350+ lumens recommended for 4K resolution. Daylight 5000K color temperature improves facial recognition versus warm 2700K. Position bulbs to avoid direct camera lens glare.
Do smart bulbs increase electricity costs?
No. A 9W LED smart bulb costs $1.20/year running dusk-to-dawn at $0.12/kWh. That's 85% less than 60W incandescents. WiFi standby adds less than $0.05 annually—negligible compared to efficiency gains.
