Premise New Install - 2nd Home... time to geek out

[ahansen]

Alright gang, we just bought a new vacation home and I've convinced the wife that we need to install an automation and security system. It's not big and she's watching the budget, so here's what I know so far:

1) I'm using Premise
2) I'm using an Elk security system
3) Entertainment is out of bounds for this round
4) Lighting and HVAC are in the bucket

My question focuses on #4 - specifically, which technology to go after. This is going to be an upgrade (I have been instructed that I cannot cut any drywall to do this project) and cost is going to be important. I've noodled Insteon or Z-Wave since its a remodel job and we have drivers for both (thanks to this forum). So, what would you guys do and where would you get the parts from (not opposed to used if anyone has stuff they want to get rid of). Here's a parts list so far:

- Switches: 2
- 3-Way Switches: 2 sets of 2 switches
- Dimmers: 2
- Plug-ins / Outlets: 4
- HVAC: Yes

I would like positive feedback from the sensors re their status, so no X10 etc.

Thanks,
Adam

 

[AutomateIt]

Just so you know X10 does provide switch status where some Z-Wave switches do not. Insteon would cover a project this small as they have the switches as well as the stat. The Insteon stat is a bit cheesy so if you want a better stat have a look the the Proliphix stats. These are nice stats and have an RS232 interface.

 

[pete_c]

I am curious what X10 switch provides status?

I am currently using Insteon switches. These provide Insteon status from remote and local point of view. The X-10 basically provides status when I do something on the HA server (changing the variable) but if I shut off the X-10 switch locally the X-10 status on the HA server remains at previous state.

 

[chucklyons]

- Switches: 2
- 3-Way Switches: 2 sets of 2 switches
- Dimmers: 2
- Plug-ins / Outlets: 4
- HVAC: Yes

Lutron Radio Ra - I cant say what my cost is, but I buy the ones for my house from eBay. ~50-70 bucks a pop; RS-232 controller depends. Rock Solid. They dim; add an 'accessory dimmer' (~20$); 2/3/4 way. I'm done buying, so happy bidding...

Outlets - Insteon - about 50$/ea. The controller is extra $. Rock solid, thanks to John...

HVAC - Aprilaire. Rock solid. Price varies...

 

[AutomatedOutlet]

The better X10 switches DO provide status. I would however recommend using UPB with the Elk system.

 

[AutomateIt]

I am curious what X10 switch provides status?

I am currently using Insteon switches. These provide Insteon status from remote and local point of view. The X-10 basically provides status when I do something on the HA server (changing the variable) but if I shut off the X-10 switch locally the X-10 status on the HA server remains at previous state.

All of my Insteon switches that I run in X10 mode also support instant status.