Published July 6, 2026 by National Electric NM
Smart home gear is easy to buy and sometimes frustrating to install. Most problems trace back to the wiring in the wall.
Smart switches and the neutral wire
A smart switch needs a small amount of power all the time. Most get it through a neutral wire in the switch box. Many older homes have no neutral at the switch. An electrician can add one, or fit a model designed to work without it. See switch and dimmer installation.
Smart thermostats and the C-wire
Smart thermostats need continuous 24 volt power from a common wire. Older systems, and evaporative cooler controls in particular, often lack one.
Video doorbells
Older doorbell transformers are too weak for video doorbells, which then drop offline. Replacing the transformer is a quick fix; see doorbell wiring.
Wi-Fi and wired connections
Thick adobe walls block Wi-Fi well. Hardwired Ethernet to a few access points makes every wireless device more reliable, and it is easiest to add during a remodel or new build.
A sensible order
- Start with smart dimmers in the rooms you use most.
- Add a smart thermostat.
- Add a video doorbell and exterior lighting schedules.
- Consider energy monitoring at the panel.
Our smart home wiring service takes care of the electrical side so the devices just work.