Ways to Convert Any Light Switch Into A Smart Switch

Again, we are talking about the regular rocker/piano switches which are commonly used everywhere. Previously we published an important article – How to Interface a Piano/Rocker Switch (SPST) With ESP32 Arduino. These days, concealed conduit wiring with modular components are standard. There has been standardisation across the globe for compatibility.

I have written before that these came into the market in the 70s replacing the tumbler switches made up of Bakelite and China clay. These are SPST switches and do have minor difference for debouncing. Unfortunately, switches for DC electricity are neither durable nor widely standardized. I will not say “there is no universal standard” but in reality, DC switches suck. DC appears great when the voltage is too low. To avoid issues with electrical sparks, the smart switches are either push-button or touch switches. They are also not durable for day to day use plus they cost higher.

For various reasons, we have to think of converting any light switch into a smart switch. Now, if we look at the solutions from bigger brands like Anchor (By Panasonic), then the cost is so high that it is not practical for the whole house.

Then How We Can Convert Any Light Switch Into A Smart Switch With a Small Budget?

For 16 Amp plugs, use smart plugs from well-known brands. This is the safest solution and planning will require separating the wiring of 16 Amp (or more) sockets and 5 Amp switches. That separation is actually done for using inverter and solar. If you are planning to install solar in your house in future or already have so, then you should plan the wiring.

The combination of solar, LED lights and smart switches are just great! Smart switches tend to drain some electricity in “standby mode”. With solar, we have a little headache of wastage and the automation becomes less buggy. Grid power is superior for high power appliances. Today’s outdoor LED lights do not suck huge electricity. Unless you deploy automation and IoT system control, you can not properly decorate your garden or bedroom matching your mood. Now for the 5 Amp connections, you have three options for conversion:

1. Using Sonoff wireless/smart relays
2. Using ready to use circuits to easily fit inside your existing gang boxes behind the switches
3. Using something DIY with ESP32

I would not be inclined towards DIY for many reasons, one of them being cost. Sonoff wireless/smart relays, ready to use circuits cost so low that DIY is not profitable for the whole house. Using Sonoff wireless/smart relays with a permanent connection will need an extra gang box. That will slightly increase the cost of the “modernization”.
At this moment, I found that some China companies build two bare circuits that convert the traditional switches to smart switches. Investing some time, I found an Indian startup that manufactures similar thing :

So these are your options. None of them is excellent products but better than having nothing.