I'm looking for a recommendation to replace an outside GFCI outlet with something that can be controlled via Hubitat. The current outlet is just a basic GFCI plug enclosed by an outside rated box with a cover. There is no switch. I'd like to get Hubitat able to control this so that, for example, I can control holiday lighting that uses the plug. I'd really like to keep the existing form factor; e.g., no extra enclosures required.
Any recommendations? Posts I've seen seem to be 3 or more years old.
If there is a different way to think about this, please let me know.
Thanks.
EDIT: I just realized I might be able to get a relay for the box, something to fit inside and control it via the Hubitat. I'll need to check this some more. Other ideas are welcome.
The other option is to change the breaker to be a GFCI breaker and use a smart outlet. The trouble with this option is that I’m unaware of any smart outlets that are rated “WR”.
The actual location of the outlet is inside a covered area by the front door, recessed roughly 3 feet from the drip line. The current outlet I believe is a standard GFCI outlet mounted in a box designed to be exposed to the elements and includes a cover that that is closed after plugging in a cable; left, right and top are sealed from direct assault of the elements.
Is it an “in-use” enclosure around the gfci receptacle? These are designed to remain waterproof while something is plugged into the receptacle. Your description of the enclosure sounds like it is.
I use a couple outdoor-rated smart plugs that are compatible with Hubitat in my back yard that can plug into a receptacle and lights without any issues, even while the enclosure covers remain closed.
I have not looked at the details of this product, just did a quick search for yah.
But I thought there was some of this Leviton stuff that we could talk to via HE.
Good suggestions, all. It got me to thinking about what I really want. First requirement is a device that works with Hubitat. I'd be z-wave, Matter, etc. Straight WiFi doesn't guarantee Hubitat compatibility. Matter doesn't either, as I discovered with a Kwikset lock (worked with HomeKit and HomeKit commissioned it for further pairing, but Hubitat would not recognize it. That's its own thread.)
After the Hubitat first integration, I need to enable devices for HomeKit. Our home is primarily an Apple-based ecosystem, but not 100%. My phone is an Android, for example. So, Hubitat as the prime integrator (except for Matter) and an expectation that all devices can be made available to HomeKit.
I am, new to all this. I have a number of basic devices integrated, including Zen17 for two Liftmaster GDO. I'm about to embark on automation and scenes. I want to be ready for the next Holiday season requiring lights (e.g., Christmas). I want to control those without needing an external mechanical timer (which is what I've used to-date). I thought making that GFCI outlet "smart" was the way to go.
Your suggestions caused me to step back and rethink things. I'm now looking at dry contact relays that I could embed into the existing box and use with the current GFCI outlet. I see a number of such relays that look like they would work.
Personally I’d either replace the whole receptacle for direct control by Hubitat, or add a smart plug to the GFCI receptacle, or replace the breaker with a GFCI breaker like @aaiyar mentioned.
Wiring a relay in behind the GFCI receptacle seems like it could add a potential failure point to the receptacle’s safety features, and IMO isn’t worth that risk, no matter how unlikely.
Good points. Thank you. I agree on the extra failure point concern and I'll add to that concern one about access to debug is only through deconstructing the assembly.
Smart plug ... I'd not really paid much attention to that type of device. I actually have a couple. The box may have room for a plug and then a device plugging into it ... stress on the word may. The cover gives a couple inches of headroom, but the smart plug I'm looking at in my office would eat into that too much. That's definitely worth exploring, though, and perhaps could get the smack of the "That Was Easy" button!
And indeed, "That Was Easy!" I just put a tp-link|tapo Matter smart plug into the GFCI receptacle, added an extension cord to that and then was able to close the door on the outdoor enclosure. Nice! Thank you for that suggestion.
I'd purchased a two pack of these Matter smart plugs as I was beginning my SmartHome journey. They were not too expensive (on sale at the time). I was not sure what I would use them for. It was more for having a Matter device around to aid my general learning. Now I have a great use for one.
