Debate: Should we hardwire new builds or keep using wireless panels?

A senior installer from Dallas told me last month that wireless panels are the future for residential, but I just had to rip out a full Honeywell Lyric system because the homeowner's new metal roof killed the signal. On the other hand, I've spent three days running wires through a finished basement before that took forever. Which route do you guys lean for new construction where the drywall isn't up yet?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_dylan1d ago

Did that Dallas guy ever see what happens when you throw a Z-wave system into a house with thick concrete walls? I swear half the battery life goes to screaming into the void. For new construction where the studs are still showing, I’d rather run the wire once and be done than play signal tag through foil-backed insulation. But hey, if you enjoy crawling back into the attic every time the homeowner upgrades their microwave, wireless is the way to go.

ruby2901d ago

Totally agree, @the_dylan. Had a customer with concrete walls and the Z-wave just gave up on half the house.