How Much is Too Much?

Just curious how many devices everyone else has, I have a feeling I am addicted to adding devices to my network. I have currently have 32 devices which include:

2 x Thermostats
3 x Appliance Modules
9 x Outlets
3 x Exterior Modules
1 x HSM 100 3in1
4 x Lamp Modules
10 Switches

I plan to add another thermostat, 18 more switches (some replace current lamp modules), 3 IP cameras and replace 2 of the appliance modules with outlets. I should end up with about 50 to 55 devices before I finish the basement this winter, then probably another 5 to 10 to cover that as well.

This is probably not the most, but how much is too much?

It’s only too much if you spend money on Zwave products instead of funding your retirement account.

@Chimpware,
Are you worried about the addiction, or the ability of ZWave to scale out? :smiley:

In my house, I stopped when I got to “secondary” lighting (Bathrooms, Laundry, Linen closets) and haven’t done any Sockets (I have one to install, to act as a security-Relay for the Lock). This was more of a cost/practicality thing, than anything.

ie. I didn’t need to remote control the lighting in those locations, and I can buy “matching” (non-ZWave) switches for cosmetics.

With rare exception, it’s all Leviton, and I’ve not had a problem with the Network growing… although I’m not keen on the Battery operated stuff (I have HomePOS Motion and a HSM100)

That said, my ZWave Network is fairly dense, with most nodes being able to see most other nodes directly, without having to “hop”, or at most 1 hop.

From memory, @wseverino has the largest [published] ZWave network on this forum. There might be larger ones, but a lot of folks don’t list what they have.

Other than the fact that it’s all WAY overpriced, too much is never enough. I have:

1 x Thermostat
2 x Appliance Modules
4 x Outlets
1 x Exterior Module
3 x HSM 100 3in1
12 x Lamp Modules
11 x Switches
1 x Battery operated switch
4 x 4-Scene +1-load controllers
4 x Cameras
1 x USBUIRT
1 x GC 100-6
2 x Locks
1 x Freeze/flood sensor
4 x Mini scene controllers
1 x Door/window sensor

Next up for me-
Pool motor relay with outdoor appliance module
Somfy blind controls

Could you guys expand a bit on what your goals were all these devices?
I see a lot of outlet and appliance controllers but not sure what I would use those for.
I’m looking for excuses to buy stuff so help out :wink:

I know I would eventually like to control the pool pump, spriklers, and garage door.
Right now since I’m new, I’m focusing on thermostat (Trane) and on/off light switches (5 GE 45609’s).

For instance:
-Out on my covered deck I have two outlets that power a subwoofer and a transformer for a low-voltage fountain pump.
-Under my kitchen sink I use an appliance module to control the hot water dispenser so I don’t have to heat the water all night.
-In places where I have a fluorescent table lamp I use an appliance module instead of a lamp module with dimmer functionality.

I’m really enjoying my Schlage and Kwikset door locks. The freedom of going keyless is wonderful, and the ability to control it remotely is very helpful. My favorite part, though is receiving an email notification every time someone enters. And you have to get some motion sensors. The 3-in-1s are very useful. My tankless water heater is in an inside closet, so a flood sensor is a must. Need I go on?

That’s good :smiley:
I’m getting all sorts of ideas!!!

I just went through a mental count of my devices, and it looks like I currently have 40 in use.

Here’s the breakdown…

10 lights indoors
1 air conditoner
2 fans
1 dehumifier
3 thermostats
2 5 button switches
1 battery switch
1 water heater
1 garage heater
1 garage door opener
2 door sensors
5 door locks
1 barn lights
1 barn power
2 outdoor lights
1 sprinklers
5 Panasonic cameras

I think I need to add a few more devices to the network. I’m looking forward to the Aeon Energy Monitor, but I’m waiting for Vera support. I’ll probably add aother camera or two, and more door/window sensors as well.

My wife actually loves the system, because she uses SQ Remote. She’s never even seen the Vera computer interface.

All in all, I think it works well. Vera is getting there. Little by little.

-Robert

Dang! I guess it’s time for me to get busy and add some more stuff. As soon as shady, strangely, and tt55du get the awnings and blinds figured out, I’ll catch up.