Solve 3-Way (or multi-way) Lighting with Shelly

In contemporary smart home configurations, the integration of traditional lighting systems with smart devices can significantly improve convenience and efficiency. This comprehensive guide offers detailed instructions on how to establish a 3-way lighting circuit using the Shelly Plus 1 and Shelly Plus i4 devices. By adhering to these steps, you will be able to manage a lighting load from two distinct switches, leveraging smart automation to optimize your lighting control. The Shelly Plus 1 is directly linked to the lighting load and one switch, whereas the Shelly Plus i4 is connected to the other switch and communicates with the Plus 1 to activate or deactivate the lighting load. This configuration not only preserves the functionality of your current switches but also introduces the adaptability and sophistication of smart home technology.

To establish a 3-way lighting circuit utilizing a Shelly Plus 1 and a Shelly Plus i4, please adhere to the following guidelines. This configuration enables you to manage a lighting load from two distinct switches through intelligent automation.

Wiring and Installation

Shelly Plus 1

  1. Connections:

    • Link the Line Voltage (L) to the L terminal on the Shelly Plus 1.

    • Attach the Neutral (N) to the N terminal on the Shelly Plus 1.

    • Establish a connection for the Switch to the SW terminal on the Shelly Plus 1.

    • Connect the Lighting Load to the O terminal on the Shelly Plus 1.

  2. Power Supply: It is imperative to ensure that the Shelly Plus 1 is powered by an appropriate AC supply ranging from 110 to 240 VAC.

 

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Shelly Plus i4

  1. Connections:

    • The Line Voltage (L) should be connected to one of the L terminals on the Shelly Plus i4.

    • The Neutral (N) must be connected to the N terminal on the Shelly Plus i4.

    • The Other Switch should be connected as an input to one of the SW terminals (SW1, SW2, SW3, or SW4) on the Shelly Plus i4.

  2. Power Supply: It is essential to ensure that the Shelly Plus i4 is powered by a suitable AC supply (110-240 VAC).

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Configuration

Shelly Plus 1 Setup

  1. Web Interface: To begin, access the Shelly Plus 1 web interface using its IP address.

  2. Network Configuration: Proceed by connecting the device to your Wi-Fi network.

  3. Relay Control: Ensure that the relay is configured to control the lighting load effectively.

Shelly Plus i4 Setup

  1. Web Interface: Access the Shelly Plus i4 web interface through its IP address.

  2. Network Configuration: Connect the device to your Wi-Fi network as the next step.

  3. Input Configuration: Set the input mode to "Button" for the switch linked to the i4 device.

Action Configuration

  1. Shelly Cloud or Home Automation Platform: Utilize the Shelly app or a home automation platform like Home Assistant to establish automation rules.

  2. Action Commands: Configure the Shelly Plus i4 to transmit action commands to the Shelly Plus 1. For instance, when the switch connected to the i4 is toggled, it should send a command to toggle the relay on the Plus 1, thereby turning the light on or off.

  3. Example Automation:

    • Single Click: Enables toggling the light.

    • Double Click: Executes another action, such as adjusting brightness or color (if applicable).

Testing and Verification

  1. Test the Setup: Verify that both switches can independently control the light.

  2. Adjust Automations: Make any necessary adjustments to the automation rules to achieve the desired functionality.

By following the setup instructions provided, you have effectively integrated a 3-way lighting circuit with smart home capabilities using the Shelly Plus 1 and Shelly Plus i4. This configuration enables you to manage your lighting from two separate switches while harnessing the power of smart automation for enhanced convenience and flexibility. By customizing actions and automating lighting control, your home lighting system is now more efficient and adaptable to your requirements. Embrace the seamless integration and enjoy the benefits of a smarter, more connected home environment.