Smart Home Design Help
Understand how smart devices work together and which ones are right for your home.
Wiring, compatibility, and product types β all explained.
Lighting Control Options
Smart lighting is one of the most important elements in any smart home. HOMETECH offers two main options depending on your home wiring: Wi-Fi switches with neutral wiring and Zigbee-based switches or modules for no-neutral setups.
With Neutral
π‘ Requires a neutral wire
πΆ Connects via Wi-Fi (no hub needed)
π Ideal for modern homes
π§° Easy to install and configure
π‘ Compatible with most LED bulbs
Without Neutral
β No neutral wire required
π‘ Uses Zigbee (hub required)
π Great for older homes
π Reliable and scalable performance
π Requires Zigbee hub per room
π Note:
No-neutral Wi-Fi switches with capacitors exist, but HOMETECH recommends Zigbee options for better performance and fewer wiring complications.
Smart Lighting: Switches vs Modules
There are two powerful options commonly used to upgrade home lighting into a smart system. At HOMETECH, we help you understand the differences and source the most suitable solution for your needs.
π‘ Smart Light Switches (Wall-Mounted)
Replaces your existing wall switch.
Offers tactile, on-wall control plus smart automation.
- Comes in two types:
πΉ With Neutral (Wi-Fi): Best for modern wiring setups. Stable and direct connection.
πΈ No Neutral (Zigbee): Ideal for older homes. Requires a Zigbee hub.
π§ Smart Light Modules (In-Wall Devices)
Installed behind your existing switch panel inside the wall.
Maintains your current switch appearance while enabling smart control.
Also available in two types:
πΉ With Neutral: Direct power, ideal if your switch box includes a neutral wire.
πΈ No Neutral (Zigbee): Compatible with older wiring. Requires a Zigbee hub.
π HOMETECH Tip:
Choose Smart Switches if you want a full wall-mounted smart control experience.
Choose Smart Modules if you prefer to keep your traditional switch style but make it smart behind the scenes.
Climate Control Options
Smart climate devices let you control your air conditioning from anywhere β saving energy while keeping your space comfortable. HOMETECH offers two key solutions depending on your AC system type.
Smart AC Controllers (IR)
π§ Works with split or window ACs
π± App and voice control like a remote
π Compatible with most AC brands
π‘ No rewiring or thermostat replacement needed
Smart Thermostats
π Designed for central or ducted AC systems
πΌ Replaces wall-mounted thermostat
πΆ Offers precise temperature scheduling
β οΈ Requires existing central HVAC setup
π Note:
Most Saudi homes use split or window ACs. The Smart AC Controller is usually the best fit. HOMETECH can help confirm compatibility before installation.
Smart Climate Devices: Controllers vs Thermostats
At HOMETECH, we help you choose the right smart climate control device based on your AC system.
πΉ Smart AC Controller
Ideal for homes with mini-split or window AC units. It connects via infrared, just like your remote, and lets you control the unit using your phone or voice.
No major changes are required to your AC system, and itβs compatible with most brands in Saudi Arabia.
πΈ Smart Thermostat
Best suited for homes with central HVAC systems. It replaces your wall thermostat and offers advanced temperature control, scheduling, and app-based automation.
Typically found in modern villas, larger apartments, or new constructions.
π HOMETECH Tip:
If youβre unsure which system your home uses, we can help confirm compatibility before your project begins.
Curtain Control Options
Smart curtain motors let you open and close your curtains using your phone, a remote, or voice assistant. Theyβre perfect for daily convenience and can be automated for privacy, sunlight control, or energy efficiency.
Smart Curtain Motor Β Β (Wi-Fi)
πͺ Controls most standard curtain tracks
π± Works with Tuya / Smart Life app
π Remote, voice, and app control
π Plug-in or wired power options
Smart Curtain Motor Β (Zigbee)
πͺ Same function as Wi-Fi motor
π‘ Uses Zigbee protocol (hub required)
β‘ More stable for large smart systems
π Best when used with other Zigbee devices
π Note:
Β Make sure to check your curtain type (rod, U-rail, or I-rail) and confirm power access near the track. HOMETECH provides product options that match your setup.
Smart Curtain Motors: Choosing the Right Type
Motorized curtain systems are a popular smart home upgrade that work well with most Saudi home layouts. These motors are typically available in both Wi-Fi and Zigbee versions, making it easy to integrate them into your smart setup. HOMETECH can help guide you in selecting the right option and sourcing compatible devices
πΉ Wi-Fi Curtain Motors
These connect directly to your home Wi-Fi network and are ideal for users who want quick setup with app control. They support voice commands (Alexa/Google), scheduling, and remote access. Theyβre great for apartments, bedrooms, and common areas.
πΈ Zigbee Curtain Motors
These require a Zigbee hub and offer faster response times and better system-wide performance. Theyβre a good fit if youβre already using Zigbee lighting or sensors and want to centralize everything through one control system.
π Optional: Roller Shade Motors
For homes with roller blinds, smart roller motors allow similar automation through the same Tuya app.
π HOMETECH Tip:
Before buying, check your curtain track type (U-rail, I-rail, or rod), number of windows, and whether you prefer plug-in or wired installation. HOMETECH helps by offering product options that fit your setup β no modifications needed.
Smart Home Security Options
Smart home security devices give you keyless control, visitor visibility, and peace of mind β all through one app. HOMETECH offers smart locks, doorbell cameras, and full surveillance systems to help you protect what matters.
Smart locks are available in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions.
Wi-Fi locks support remote control directly through the Tuya app.
Bluetooth locks offer local control only β remote access requires a separate Tuya gateway.
π Note:
All devices are TUYA-compatible and work in the same app. You can start with a lock or doorbell and expand your system later with cameras or automation.
Smart Security Devices: Entry & Monitoring Options
Flexible smart security solutions are available that work with the TUYA app ecosystem β allowing you to manage locks, cameras, and alerts from a single platform. HOMETECH helps you understand these options and source compatible devices for your home setup.
π Smart Locks
Upgrade your entry door with a smart lock that lets you unlock via fingerprint, password, or mobile app. Most models are compatible with Saudi-standard mortise sizes and allow guest access, timed unlocks, and full access logs.
π Doorbell Camera
Ideal for users who want front-door visibility, doorbell cameras offer motion alerts, visitor snapshots, and two-way audio. They connect directly via Wi-Fi and integrate with your smart home app for real-time access, even when youβre away.
πΉ NVR System
Tuya-compatible NVRs let you build a full surveillance system with compatible indoor/outdoor IP cameras. Footage is recorded locally, and you can view live or playback via the app. Great for users who want more than basic door monitoring.
π HOMETECH Tip:
You can start with a smart lock or doorbell and expand later. All devices connect to the same TUYA platform, so you can build your system step by step without needing a separate app.
Automation & Central Control
Smart home automation connects different devices to work together through voice commands, control panels, or automation scenes. HOMETECH helps you explore available solutions and source the devices that fit your setup best.
Voice assistants allow hands-free control of lights, AC units, curtains, and more through popular platforms like Alexa and Google Assistant.
Wall-mounted control panels offer a centralized way to control multiple devices or scenes, often installed near entry points or shared spaces.
π Note:
Voice assistants usually work over Wi-Fi and are plug-and-play. Control panels may require fixed installation and may connect via Wi-Fi or Zigbee depending on the model. Compatibility with the Tuya platform is common.
Automation Devices: Assistants vs Panels
At HOMETECH, we guide you through selecting smart control solutions such as voice assistants and wall panels β helping you find reliable options that integrate well with your smart home system.
π Voice Assistants
Used for voice-based control of various smart home devices. They are widely compatible and often link to platforms like Tuya or Smart Life for seamless integration.
π Smart Control Panels
Wall-mounted panels that allow local control of lighting, temperature, or scenes from one screen. Some versions support Zigbee and offer better speed and integration in larger setups.
π HOMETECH Tip:
For everyday convenience, a voice assistant combined with a simple control panel can create a flexible and centralized control experience. HOMETECH can assist in recommending and sourcing suitable options.
Safety Sensors & Leak Protection
Smart safety sensors monitor your home for risks like gas leaks, water damage, motion, or smoke β and send alerts to your app instantly. These devices can also be paired with smart valve controllers to automatically shut off water or gas lines when a leak is detected.
Wi-Fi Sensors
πΆ Connect directly to your network
π§° Easy setup, no hub required
π May require more frequent battery changes
π§ Best for smaller homes or limited setups
Β Zigbee Sensors
π‘ Use Zigbee mesh network (hub required)
π Longer battery life and more stable performance
π Ideal for larger homes with multiple devices
β οΈ Requires a compatible Zigbee hub
π Note:
Most sensors (especially motion, smoke, and door/window sensors) are available in both Wi-Fi and Zigbee versions. Leak detectors are often used with automated valve controllers for water or gas β adding an extra layer of protection through automation.
Smart Safety Devices: Sensors & Controllers
A variety of smart sensors and safety controllers are available to monitor your home and automate responses to potential risks. Below are the most common types and their uses:
πΆ Motion Sensors
Detect movement in rooms or hallways β often used to trigger lights or alerts in security setups.
πͺ Door/Window Sensors
Notify you when a door or window is opened. Useful for entry monitoring or automation triggers.
π₯ Smoke Detectors
Send immediate alerts when smoke is detected β critical for kitchen and hallway safety.
π§ͺ Gas Leak Detectors
Ideal for homes using gas stoves or water heaters. Alerts you to hazardous leaks instantly.
π§ Water Leak Detectors
Used under sinks, near washing machines, or in pump rooms to detect water early and avoid damage.
π Smart Valve Controllers
Automatically shut off gas or water supply when paired with leak sensors β helping prevent disasters before they start.
π HOMETECH Tip:
Sensors are affordable, scalable, and easy to install. For better battery life and multi-device setups, Zigbee sensors are often the better long-term option β especially when paired with other automation.
More Than Just Lights and Locks
Smart home possibilities go far beyond switches, sensors, or thermostats. With the right devices, almost anything in your home can be automated, controlled by app, or integrated into a smart scene.
Whether itβs opening your garage, managing irrigation, or automating appliances, HOMETECH can help source creative solutions that match your space and needs.
π Note:
If a device is electrically controlled β thereβs likely a smart module that can automate it. HOMETECH helps identify and source the best-fit option, no matter how unique your goal.
Complete Smart Home
Many everyday devices in your home β beyond lighting and climate β can be automated using smart modules and controllers. Below are a few examples of how smart technology can extend to nearly every corner of your home.
π Garage Door Controllers
Open or close your garage from your phone. Works with most rolling or sectional doors using Wi-Fi modules.
π Gate Openers / Closers
Control villa gates or driveway barriers remotely. Often integrated with smart remotes or wall-mounted buttons.
π§ Irrigation System Controllers
Automate your garden watering based on time, weather, or manual triggers from your app.
π§ Universal Smart Modules
These tiny devices can control anything with a switch or motor β water pumps, fountains, extractor fans, pet feeders, electric curtains, or even projector lifts.
π Outlet & Appliance Control
Use smart plugs or inline relays to turn on/off any appliance from your phone or voice assistant.
π HOMETECH Tip:
Your imagination is the only limit. If itβs electric, weβll help you find a compatible smart module to automate it β all within the same Tuya-based ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get clear answers to common questions about devices, wiring, apps, and compatibility β all in one place.
Do I need a neutral wire for smart light switches?
It depends on your homeβs wiring and the switch type. Wi-Fi switches usually require a neutral wire. Zigbee modules, which donβt need a neutral, require a Zigbee hub.
Whatβs the difference between smart switches and light modules?
Smart switches replace your wall switches. Modules are installed behind existing switches and hidden from view. Both options have models with and without neutral.
How do I know if my AC system supports smart thermostats or AC controllers?
Smart thermostats work with central HVAC systems. If your AC uses a remote control, a smart AC controller is usually a better match.
Do Zigbee devices require a hub?
Yes. Zigbee devices (like modules, sensors, and control panels) must connect through a Zigbee hub to work with your app.
Can I install these products myself?
Some devices like smart plugs or AC controllers are plug-and-play. Others, such as modules or thermostats, may require an electrician.
Which app should I use to control these devices?
Most supported devices work with the Tuya Smart or Smart Life apps β both are free and support Arabic and English.
Does HOMETECH sell or install these devices?
HOMETECH helps you choose and source the right smart devices for your home. While we donβt directly sell retail products, we do offer full-system planning and professional installation for complete smart home setups β available as an option during your project
My home has old wiring β can I still use smart devices?
Yes! With the right choices (like Zigbee modules or smart relays), even older homes can be upgraded. Start with a compatibility consultation.