Smart Home Electrical Upgrades in Wisconsin: Complete 2026 Guide
Smart home devices promise convenience, but your home's electrical system might not be ready. Here's what Wisconsin homeowners need to know before buying smart switches and gadgets.
Common Smart Home Costs
- • Smart switch (neutral present): $75-$150/switch
- • Smart switch (add neutral): $150-$250/switch
- • Smart thermostat install: $150-$300
- • Smart doorbell install: $100-$200
- • Whole-home neutral prep: $1,500-$3,500
The Neutral Wire Problem
The #1 issue we see with DIY smart home installations: missing neutral wires. Most smart switches need constant power to maintain WiFi connectivity. Without a neutral, they have no power when the light is off.
How to Check for Neutral Wires:
- 1. Turn off power at the breaker
- 2. Remove the switch plate and switch
- 3. Look for a bundle of white wires (usually wire-nutted together)
- 4. If you only see one black and one white wire, you likely have no neutral
Note: If you're not comfortable doing this, we can check during a site visit.
Smart Home Electrical Checklist
- Neutral wires: At all switch locations you want to automate
- Dedicated outlets: Behind TV, at desk, for automation hub
- Outdoor outlets: For cameras, landscape lighting controllers
- USB outlets: In kitchen, bedroom, home office
- Surge protection: Smart devices are sensitive to power spikes
Smart Switches That Don't Need Neutrals
If adding neutrals isn't practical, some smart switches work without them:
- • Lutron Caseta: Uses separate hub, very reliable, needs bridge
- • Inovelli Red/Blue: Works without neutral with LED bulbs (some limitations)
- • GE/Jasco No-Neutral: Requires compatible LED bulbs
Note: No-neutral switches often have minimum load requirements or dimming limitations.
Why We Can't Quote Smart Home Work Remotely
Smart home electrical needs vary dramatically based on:
- • Whether neutral wires exist at switch boxes
- • Home's age and wiring methods
- • Attic/basement access for running new wires
- • Which devices you want to automate
- • Panel capacity for dedicated circuits
A home built in 2010 is very different from one built in 1960.
Related Resources
Planning a Smart Home?
We'll assess your wiring, identify what's needed for your automation goals, and provide a roadmap for upgrades.
Schedule AssessmentReady to Make Your Home Smarter?
Smart home upgrades start with the right electrical foundation. We will check for neutral wires, plan dedicated circuits, and ensure your home is wired for reliable automation. Couillard Electric serves Sheboygan County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, and surrounding SE Wisconsin communities.