I am looking to do some automation in my home. I am leaning towards using Leviton Decora Smart Z-Wave Plus switches (DZ15S-1BZ), dimmers (DZ6HD-1BZ or DZ1KD-1BZ) and plug-ins (DZPA1-2BW or DZPD3-2BW) in conjunction with a Smart Things Hub and some sensors. I know that all of that is doable but I am concerned about the total number of devices that the hub can handle. I have been told anywhere from 232 to 1000 and I am ultimately not looking for more than 125-150 TOTAL devices; however, other people have warned me about potential lag or slowing with that many. Should I be concerned?
My other issues has to do with the way that my house is wired. I built it 18 years ago with the intention of using X10 for lighting control and integration. As a result, I have NO wiring for 3 (or 4)-way switching control. This is a huge hassle and something that I want to remedy with this upgrade since my X10 stuff is garbage. The bigger question that I have and that I have been getting all sorts of mixed signals and answers on is what can I use to install in place of my existing X10 transmitters (only wired with hot and neutral) to provide 3 (or 4) way control of switches either across the room or up/down the stairs? Can I simply install an additional DZ15S-1BZ (as a “controller” switch) that is connected only to power (hot and neutral) and NOT to the lighting load and have it communicate through the ST hub to control the switch attached to the lighting load? If so, would I only use the switch DZ15S-1BZ even if I wanted to turn a dimmer on/off? Can I have that “controller” switch turn on or off multiple lights through programming…using them as ALL off for rooms, floors, the entire house? Would the on and off be programmed as separate functions…there are places where I prefer NOT to have the on work but rather just the off?
Does anyone have any idea if the VRCZ4-M0Z can be used with the ST Hub as a multi-button controller? That looks like it wold be a great device but one of my suppliers makes a specific note in their catalog that it is NOT compatible with ST; however, I have seen mention of it here?
Are there any other in-wall controllers that work well?
I appreciate any help that anyone can offer. I am not a super techie but I have some basic knowledge. I have a skilled electrician doing my install and a 14 year old who has helped me start "playing with just a couple of sensors and plug-in modules with my ST hub.