I picked up this dimmer switch during @TheSmartestHouse Labor Day sale. The main draw to me was the ability for this switch to work in a 3-way configuration without an accessory switch. This means I was able to complete a 3-way setup for a hair over $25! This is less than half of what it would take with a comparable GE z-wave setup. Anyway, here’s my impressions.
The device itself comes nicely packaged and includes a neutral wire jumper. This switch does require a neutral wire in the switch box. No other rocker colors are included, but I always found them to be a waste anyway. The rocker itself also comes with a protective film, which is a nice touch so it doesn’t get banged up while installing.
Size wise, I’d say it’s exactly the same as a GE switch. It’s also similar in that it has tabs you break off for multi switch boxes.
The instructions included are VERY good. I was impressed with the two full page wiring diagrams that were included.
Here are some install pictures, focusing on the part that uses the existing switch since it’s unique. The 3-way configuration I was replacing was option 2 from their wiring diagrams. Pretty straight forward with their included wiring diagram.
Here’s the final product, and here’s lies my two minor criticisms. The color is a touch whiter than the GE switch on the left and dump switch on the right. Also, I find the Zooz logo on the rocker a bit cheesy. I may try to take some rubbing alcohol to it and remove it.
The switch paired quickly with the device handler here. If you contact The Smartest House, this is the handler they will send you to. The handler includes options for the led indicator. I’ll post some separate feedback on the handler in that thread.
The mechanism of the switch itself is similar to the GE, maybe slightly less “clicky”. With this dimmer model, manual dimming can only be done at the master switch. The dumb switch functions as on/off only, which I feel is fine. I find in real life use when I want to dim my GE dimmers I either use Alexa or automations.
In summary, I’m very happy with this Zooz dinner switch. I think it is a great solution to add smarts to the previously high cost 3-way switch setup. They also have an on/off model and toggle models that work in 3-way setups with the existing dumb switch. I’ll definitely keep these Zooz switches in mind in the future.
