Three way switch - wireless switches

[ruffryder]

I tried search and either I failed or I didn't find anything.

I have one light switch for the lights in my shop. I want to add another switch. Rather than getting into the conduit to run additional wires to convert the single two way switch to a three way switch, I am hoping there is a wireless switch that I could use.

I have looked at some wireless switches, but most seem to be towards the home automation, use your cell phone type of use. I don't need that, just want another switch to turn on the lights without having to walk in the dark and trip on my kids toys. (did I say shop? )

Anybody have any ideas? I like the KISS approach, but I know wireless kind of throws that away. I guess I am looking for a wireless switch with more limited functionality, as in I don't need it networked.

Thanks in advance for your expertise!

 

[Crazyjake8493]

http://http://www.lowes.com/pd/Lutron-Caseta-Wireless-3-Way-Wireless-White-Dimmer/999948502

Something like that maybe? Not exactly two wall switches, just one wall switch and then a remote control for the second "switch."

 

[matt_i]

Not sure if an occupancy sensor would work in your application. Personally I'd stick with hardwired solutions. So much more reliable for years to come.

 

[tyme2par4]

I had one of these in my last house.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BMTV48K/?tag=atomicindus08-20
We had a garage under, and the stairway came up in the kitchen. The nearest light switch was all the way on the other side of the room, so I used one of these and mounted it right next to the door. Worked great unless you are using cheap-o LED bulbs. Cheap bulbs tend to flicker for some reason, but I replaced them with CREE 4Flow bulbs and the flickering stopped.

 

[Stuff]

Same as tyme2par4 - But need to get the SK-8A w/cover set. Not cheap but does the job. I've installed a couple of them. Only strange thing is that the new remote is similar to a standard rocker switch but the master is a tiny button - and you need the cover.

 

[simpler=better]

I have the Lutron Caseta on my porch, I'm a fan. Runs ~$60/switch.

 

[cybrdyke]

www.casetawireless.com
Good luck,
CD

 

[matt01073]

I have had excellent luck with wireless switches from ad hoc electronics , I found the best place to purchase is direct from them either online or over the phone . I used several in a log cabin where there was no way to get wiring to a switch . They have been used daily by us for about 5 years and never a problem the switches require no battery or power . there is a relay that wires into the box where the lights hook up all you need is that the relay is within reasonable distance to the location where you want he switch 100 feet if i remember correctly . I do have one relay mounted in a box in the wall on the second floor for some first floor lighting and even through log walls and a 2 inch t&g pine cieling /floor it works great. I know that they offer regular / 2 and 3 way setups it depends on which relay you buy , they were very helpful when i called Only downside is they are kind of expensive but given what i needed them for it was my best option

 

[klassenl]

The Casetta line from Lutron has worked well for me. The system is expandable and easy to use.

 

[ishiboo]

I use Insteon and have had great luck with it, plus it's expandable... so that would be my recommendation.

 

[ruffryder]

Thanks for all of the information everyone.

Looking at the prices and costs of the kits, going the conduit route might be a similar cost.

I might just let this go for a little bit. I need to invest in the electrical tools, and now might be the time to.

Have a good day.

 

[ruffryder]

Well,

I wussed out and got a couple three way switches and some 12/3 armor shielded cable to do a regular three way switch.

Thanks again for all of the insight. Maybe someday I will venture into the wireless switch domain, but that won't be today unfortunately.

David

 

[Stuff]

Don't fret it. If you just needed a switch that works wireless isn't better. What you installed can last 100 years without problems. Wireless always requires support. First replacing batteries. Then the devices are less rugged and more likely to wear out and break. Add in the wireless technologies that keep evolving and you have a short term solution.

Lastly, when you go to sell no one wants to buy a house with old technology or what was trendy years ago.