Performance:

Again the performance is dictated more by your hub and house construction whether it be metal gang boxes, multiple walls etc. But providing you are within a reasonable distance from the hub or another Z-Wave device the control over the lighting is identical to a single switch installation. Control from the GE Add On Switches functions just like the master switch and is fast and accurate.



Conclusion:

While the installation can be tricky it is still possible for a DIYer if you take your time and layout your circuit. The included manual does show a 3-way circuit but doesn’t provide further details for three or more switch scenarios even though the box indicates you can have up to five total switches. It also neglects to tell you how to determine the line and load wires.

I like the fact that the Add On Switches will work with all three protocols but I do think it is odd the toggle style switch is only available in white. With these GE Add On Switches running just over $25 each at places like Newegg Business, a typical 4-way circuit will end up costing $100 to convert. Standard switches would cost around $20. This is quite a big jump in price but for many, myself included this is well worth the price to have the lights automated.

If I had a gripe it would be with the toggle style switch. Unlike the paddle style switches, these switches look very different from other toggle switches you may have. They are thinner and stick straight out so they always look a little off. I also found that the screws supplied were not deep enough to properly engage the slotted screwdriver and tended to cam out easily resulting in chipped paint on the screw heads. Finally, these switches seem to be less intuitive to my 5 year old. This will just take time, but the paddle style seems easier for him to just mash the top for on and bottom for off as he flies down the hallway. Well let’s be honest, he never shuts them off.

In the end, both the GE 12728 and 12723 Z-Wave add on switches earn the Bigbruin.com "Great Idea" and Highly Recommended" awards.



Pros:

» Ability to control just about any circuit in your home.
» Paddle style blends in, doesn’t look like and afterthought
» Fast control from anywhere
» Stability, no disconnects
» Paddle style switches can be configured for multiple colors
» Well-built with a 2 year warranty.

Cons:

» Install complexity is quite a bit higher than 2 way circuits.
» Toggle style only available in white and stands out from other toggle switches.
» Installation instructions could/should be clearer.

Please drop by the Bigbruin.com Forum and feel free to post any comments or questions.