Philips Hue - Newbie questions

Jamie

It's my understanding that the Bluetooth is in addition to the existing ZigBee radio and is mainly to allow newbies to experience Hue without a bridge, with the bridge being an update path. BT isn't replacing ZigBee.

ufo550

I'm an electrician, and have used some Hue Colour GU10's in my own house, not out of choice, but reasonably happy with the results.

One thing to consider with the HC's is the output of 210lm each lamp (warm white). A typical standard led lamp would be twice that. So depends on how you are using or want your lighting.

As others have said, don't use a standard dimmer (not even sure there's a compatible one), use the Philips dimmer on/off switch or an app to control them. Also, as suggested, if the rooms lighting is being rewired, have supply taken to switch, to provided a neutral at the switch position for future proofing. Its also simpler to connect up cans/luminaires, without jb's in ceiling voids.

I'm not up to date on the 18th (retired myself), but I believe there's a new requirement for RCD protection on circuits with luminaires (including alteration & additions). You will also need that if installing new cables in walls, less than 50mm depth. Hopefully your install has that.

PS there's a plethora of suitable cans (downlight fittings only). Most should accommodate the slightly increased length of the Hue lamps (tilt version you might wanna check), and will be fire rated as standard.