This Accessory Addresses the Top Issue with Philips Hue Smart Bulbs [Now 20% Off]

Transforming your existing light fixtures into smart home devices is a breeze with Philips Hue bulbs, especially when integrating with Apple’s HomeKit. However, flipping a wall light switch off makes these smart bulbs unresponsive, which can be a frustrating issue.

This is where the Lutron Aurora dimmer shines as a smart solution, making it a must-have for any smart home enthusiast’s holiday shopping list.

Currently, you can snag these dimmers at a 20% discount on Amazon…

Update: Since my initial review, I’ve expanded my Lutron Aurora setup and can confirm their reliability over time. They have become essential to my smart home setup. While I’d prefer broader compatibility beyond Philips Hue products, I have minimal complaints otherwise.

The best long-term solution would be dedicated Lutron Caséta switches, but if you’re renting, the Lutron Aurora is still my top recommendation for those in the U.S., where flip switches are prevalent.

The Challenge

Most of my home utilizes Philips Hue bulbs, covering everything from lamps to fixtures. Building my HomeKit lighting system has been straightforward, thanks to the flexibility of Philips Hue bulbs, which has made upkeep easy through moves from apartments to a house.

Philips Hue bulbs are particularly beneficial for renters since they allow for a simple swap with regular bulbs, avoiding any wiring modifications that may require landlord approval.

I’ve grown accustomed to never flicking a physical light switch, as everything can be managed effortlessly through the Home app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, alongside Siri. I’ve set automations tailored for different times of the day, and created scenes for working or relaxing, as well as automations for when I leave or return home.

However, anyone familiar with Philips Hue smart bulbs knows that switching off a wall switch renders the smart lights inactive. This is because Hue bulbs must remain in the “on” position to be accessed via the Hue app or HomeKit. It’s usually someone else flipping that switch, not you.

The Lutron Aurora dimmer addresses this issue effectively.

The Solution

The Lutron Aurora is an effective accessory that conveniently sits over your existing toggle switches. Installation is a breeze; the round dimmer cover snaps over the toggle switch and is secured with a screwdriver before placing on the front cover.

After setting up the hardware, you can integrate the Aurora with the Philips Hue app. It connects via the “Friends of Hue” platform. As demonstrated in the images below, simply select the Lutron Aurora from the Friends of Hue listing in the app and configure the actions for when it’s controlled.

Note: Control is carried out via the Hue app—not the Home app or Lutron app—so it’s essential to keep your rooms and accessories aligned between the Home and Hue apps. While it can be tedious, the outcome is worthwhile.

You can link the Lutron Aurora with various accessories, allowing one switch to manage multiple sets of lights. For instance, I have mine configured to manipulate both the overhead fixture and a floor lamp, both using Philips Hue bulbs.

This setup means you don’t necessarily need separate Lutron Aurora dimmers for each room. If you have multiple fixtures or lamps, one Lutron Aurora can control them all—essentially managing the entire room’s lighting.

Once everything is configured, the Lutron Aurora functions similarly to a traditional light switch, enabling you to push it to toggle devices and rotate it to adjust brightness.

The advantageous aspect here is maintaining smart control even if a manual switch is unintentionally flipped.

However, there are a few limitations. The Lutron Aurora is solely compatible with Philips Hue bulbs, so if you have other smart bulbs in your setup, keep that in mind. Furthermore, it is designed to fit only the standard U.S. “flip” style switches, which means it won’t work with other types of wall switches.

Alternative Options

There are multiple approaches to achieving in-wall control for smart lighting. For instance, Lutron Caséta in-wall dimmers replace existing switches, providing a connected switch solution. Philips Hue also offers its Smart Dimmer Switch, but this model doesn’t fit over existing switches.

While these alternatives come with their own advantages—like Lutron Caséta switches being capable of controlling ceiling fans—they aren’t as easy to install or as renter-friendly as the Lutron Aurora.

You can find the Lutron Aurora on Amazon for just under $40. If you use Philips Hue products, this accessory is a straightforward way to enhance your smart home experience, primarily benefiting others in your household and guests.