As home automation gains popularity in Portugal, Shelly products are becoming a common presence in many homes.
With the increasing integration of Shelly devices into homes, home automation has become more accessible than ever. These devices allow you to control lighting, blinds, sockets and a variety of other elements through the Shelly Smart Control application (available for both iOS and Android ) or with voice commands via virtual assistants. However, this growing popularity raises the question of understanding the specifics of each Shelly device available on the market.
Each Shelly device is designed to perform specific functions, but the diverse range of products can make choosing a challenge. It's crucial to understand the individual characteristics of each Shelly device to ensure it meets your home automation needs .
Meet the Shelly Range
Shelly products are notable for their versatility , but this same feature can create confusion when choosing the right device . Each Shelly device can perform multiple functions , which is an advantage and a challenge at the same time.
With a diverse range of Shelly products such as the Shelly 1 Plus, Shelly 1L, Shelly 1PM Plus and Shelly 2PM Plus, the choice can be challenging. Product nomenclature is not always self-explanatory, which can make decisions difficult.
But once you understand the differences between each relay, you will realize that it is actually very simple. The Shelly range offers several options for automating your home. Let's analyze each of them:
Shelly 1Plus
The Shelly 1 Plus device is incredibly versatile and suitable for a variety of applications. It can be used in simple 1-channel switches, sockets, gates (such as garage doors) and even in intercoms.
One of its main features is the ability to switch between switches, enabling ladder switching. It requires the presence of a neutral cable, which is important for its correct operation.
Shelly 1 stands out when used on garage doors due to its dry contact. This means that the current that powers it has no connection with the output current , providing safe and reliable performance.
Furthermore, the Shelly 1 is versatile in terms of power supply, being able to operate with a low voltage current of 12 volts. It also offers substantial capacity, supporting up to 16 amps of electrical current. This robustness makes it suitable for a variety of applications, making it a valuable Shelly device for any home automation system.
Shelly 1L
The Shelly 1L device is designed for applications involving one-button (i.e., one-channel) switches. One of its main features is that it does not require a neutral cable to operate, which can facilitate its installation in many scenarios.
However, it is important to note that in some cases, it may be necessary to install the Shelly BYPASS at the point of light, for example, a lamp. This is especially relevant when dealing with devices that don't have a minimum charge , like many LED bulbs.
The Shelly 1L offers the ability to measure energy consumption , which can be useful for monitoring energy use across multiple devices and optimizing energy efficiency at home.
When it comes to load capacity, the Shelly 1L is capable of withstanding up to 4 amps of electrical current. Although it may not be suitable for high-power devices, it is ideal for a wide range of applications, from lighting to other low-power devices. This makes the Shelly 1L a valuable option for incorporating home automation in a convenient and effective way.
Shelly 1PM Plus
The Shelly 1PM Plus device is versatile in terms of where it can be used. It is suitable for simple single-channel switches and also for sockets, which gives it a wide range of applications in home automation.
One of the most outstanding features of the Shelly 1PM is its ability to measure energy consumption. This means you can monitor the energy usage of the devices you control, allowing you to have better control over your home's electricity consumption. This functionality is especially valuable for optimizing energy efficiency and reducing electricity costs.
For the Shelly 1PM to function properly, it is necessary to have a neutral cable available. This is something to consider when planning your installation as not all installation locations can provide a neutral cable.
A convenient feature of the Shelly 1PM is its ability to be powered with 24 volt low voltage current. This offers flexibility in how it can be integrated into different electrical configurations.
In terms of charging capacity, the Shelly 1PM can handle up to 16 amps. This makes it suitable for controlling more power-hungry devices, making it a versatile choice for various home automation needs.
Shelly 2PM
The Shelly 2PM Plus is a versatile device that finds application in various areas of home automation. It is designed to serve as a 2-button or dual switch, meaning it can control two separate channels. This capability makes it suitable for a variety of scenarios, such as controlling lighting in different areas or operating blinds and blinds systems .
Additionally, the Shelly 2PM is also compatible with blind and blind switches, making it useful in automating these elements in the home. For those who want to control smart outlets , the Shelly 2PM is a convenient choice as it offers flexibility and versatility in different configurations.
An important feature of the Shelly 2PM is that it requires the presence of a neutral cable to function properly. Make sure the location where you want to install it has a neutral cable available.
Another advantage of the Shelly 2PM is the ability to measure energy consumption. This allows you to monitor the electricity usage of controlled devices, helping you make informed decisions about energy efficiency and energy savings at home.
As far as charging capacity goes, the Shelly 2PM can handle up to 10 amps, making it suitable for a variety of devices and applications. Its flexibility and dual control capabilities make it a valuable option in home automation.
How to Choose the Right Shelly Device for You
To avoid confusion, it's helpful to consider the specific application you have in mind. Questions such as whether you want to monitor energy consumption, control blinds or simply turn lights on and off can guide your choice.
Your choice between Shelly 1, Shelly 1L, Shelly 1PM and Shelly 2PM will depend on your specific needs. Here are some final thoughts:
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Simplicity vs. Customization: If you want something simple and straightforward, the Shelly 1L is a good choice, especially if you don't have a neutral cable available. For greater customization and additional features, the Shelly 1 and Shelly 1PM are excellent options.
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Energy Consumption Measurement: If measuring energy consumption is important to you, both the Shelly 1PM and Shelly 2.5 offer this functionality.
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Required Amperage: Make sure to choose a Shelly device that supports the required amperage for your devices.
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Compatibility with Your Smart Home: Remember to check if the Shelly device you choose is compatible with the other devices in your smart home.
Now that you know the features of each Shelly device, you are better equipped to decide which one is best suited for your smart home. If you have additional questions or need guidance on installation and configuration, don't hesitate to ask. Your smart home is ready to receive a touch of automation with Shelly devices.
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