zwave or Insteon?

Community Playground Getting Started & Initial Setup
1

Hi all. I’m looking for some input from those with some experience with HA. I’m new to this but have been reading a lot.

I just placed an order for some zwave components, Micasaverde Vera3 controller, and some Insteon components. I thought zwave was the way to go as it’s a newer technology and all. I ordered the Insteon devices as the switch controllers were smaller and handled higher current. 600 watts isn’t adequate to operate my vehicle heating pads when it’s 50 below outside.

However, I’m having serious second thoughts. I did not research deep enough before ordering to learn that Insteon devices are not really fully supported in Vera 3. One way is not fully compatible in my book. I have read a lot of the softward written to improve functionality with Insteon devices, but I simply don’t want to deal with all that to make it work.

It appears to me that the Insteon devices are more common and in most ways superior to the zwave. The light switch controllers are smaller and support a full 15amps instead of only 600 or 1200 watts. The seem to be more devices for Insteon including motion lights and such.

It would all be fine if Vera 3 supported Insteon devices fully.

So, my question is simple. Am I on the wrong track with zwave? While cost is always an issue, it’s secondary to having a system that works as I want. I’ll pay more to have it right.

So should I return my Vera3 and go with an Insteon controller? And at the risk of asking an old question, Homeseer or an ISY-99i controller? I plan to have around 30 devices, switches and outlets mostly, and some outdoor lighting, spread between the house, garage, and outbuilding, all within 75-100’ from the main house.

Thanks for any and all suggestions. I am confused and will feel better when I can go one direction or the other.

Mark ??? ??? ???

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@upnorth12345,

Welcome!

Sounds like you have found the Insteon board, but consider it out-of-scope for you to get a better Insteon experience on Vera. (I have no experience with Insteon.)

Can you mention some of the Z-Wave devices you looked at? The ratings you mention might be for (incandescent) dimmers. My impression is that your typical Z-Wave switch (i.e. on/off with a relay) is rated at the full 15A. (I primarily use Leviton VRS15, which is 15A.)

Then, for example, there’s a 20A relay module (Evolve LFM20), and even 30A contactors (such as inTouch CA3750).

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THanks for the insight.

As for the zwave devices, I was referring to the Aeotec DSC18xxx-ZWUS Z-Wave Micro Smart Energy Relay Switch G2, 1200 Watt. I see lots of application for this type device that keeps local control on the switch, as well as retaining existing switch style and coloring.

The Insteon device handle a full 15amps instead of 10.
In-LineLinc Relay - INSTEON Remote Control In-Line On/Off Switch (Dual-Band)
Item# 2475SDB

I decided to return the Vera3 and ordered a Homeseer unit insead. I hope it worls out well.

Thanks

Mark

4

I see. Well, the Insteon device you mention seems more like the Evolve LFM20 or Remotec ZFM-80, in terms of form factor, which may explain the difference in rating.