# Upgrading Your Smart Home: The Lutron Aurora Dimmer for Philips Hue Bulbs
In today’s smart home era, Philips Hue bulbs emerge as one of the most straightforward methods to enhance your lighting. They effortlessly connect with a variety of smart home systems, including Apple’s HomeKit, enabling users to manage their lighting effortlessly. Nonetheless, a notable downside of Philips Hue bulbs is their dependence on a continuous power source. When a wall switch is turned off, the smart bulbs lose responsiveness, interrupting the ease of smart lighting. Luckily, the Lutron Aurora dimmer offers a straightforward and efficient remedy to this prevalent problem.
## The Issue with Philips Hue Bulbs
Numerous smart home aficionados have opted for Philips Hue bulbs due to their adaptability and user-friendliness. These bulbs can be fitted into existing fixtures without any wiring modifications, making them especially attractive for renters. Users have the capability to control their lighting via the Home app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and even leverage Siri for voice commands. Automations can be programmed for different times throughout the day, crafting customized lighting scenes for work, relaxation, or entertaining guests.
However, problems occur when someone unintentionally switches off the wall switch. This move halts power to the bulbs, making them inactive until the switch is re-engaged. This situation is all too common for Philips Hue consumers, particularly in shared living environments where not everyone might be familiar with the smart lighting arrangement.
## The Lutron Aurora Dimmer: A Savvy Solution
The **[Lutron Aurora dimmer](https://amzn.to/3GtQe3O)** is crafted specifically to tackle the problem of wall switches interfering with smart lighting. This clever accessory is designed to fit over current toggle switches, enabling users to keep control of their Philips Hue bulbs without sacrificing the functionality of the physical switch.
### Installation and Configuration
Setting up the Lutron Aurora is a simple task. The circular dimmer easily snaps over the existing toggle switch, and a quick tightening with a screwdriver secures it firmly. Once in place, users can connect the Aurora with the Philips Hue app through the “Friends of Hue” initiative. This connection allows for customization of how the Aurora interacts with the Hue bulbs, ensuring that smart lighting remains active even if the wall switch is toggled.
One of the benefits of the Aurora is its ability to manage several accessories. Users can configure it to oversee multiple lights in a room, negating the necessity for numerous dimmers. For example, a single Lutron Aurora can operate both an overhead fixture and a floor lamp, offering versatility and ease.
### Functionality
After setup, the Lutron Aurora behaves like a conventional light switch, enabling users to toggle lights on and off or modify brightness levels by adjusting the dimmer. This functionality guarantees that even if someone accidentally turns off the switch, the smart home system stays operational, allowing users to keep regulating their lighting through the Hue app or HomeKit.
## Drawbacks of the Lutron Aurora
While the Lutron Aurora is a fantastic option for Philips Hue users, it has certain limitations. The dimmer is tailored exclusively for Philips Hue bulbs, meaning it is not compatible with other smart lighting brands. Furthermore, it works solely with the classic U.S. “flip” style switches, which might pose a challenge for users with different switch configurations.
## Alternative Options
For those seeking more all-encompassing solutions, Lutron offers **[Caséta in-wall dimmers](https://geni.us/2x5jM0I)** that replace existing switches with connected versions. Philips Hue also has its own **[Smart Dimmer Switch](https://geni.us/j7Bt)**; however, this choice does not fit over existing switches. While these alternatives come with their own unique advantages, they might not be as suitable for renters or as easy to install as the Lutron Aurora.
## Final Thoughts
The Lutron Aurora dimmer is an essential enhancement for any smart home, especially for Philips Hue bulb users. Priced at just under $40, it offers a straightforward and efficient way to retain control over smart lighting, even when using traditional wall switches. Whether you’re a devoted smart home enthusiast or just starting to explore smart lighting solutions, the Lutron Aurora is an essential accessory that boosts convenience and functionality in your residence.
For those eager to elevate their smart home experience, the Lutron Aurora dimmer is presently available on [Amazon for 20% off](https://geni.us/DJIZHGx), making it a great treat for yourself or a fellow smart home lover this festive season.
