If you're using Sengled Zigbee bulbs, you've probably heard chatter about the need for repeaters. Here's a quick breakdown of why you absolutely should be using them and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Why You Need Zigbee Repeaters for Sengled Bulbs
Sengled's Zigbee Smart LED bulbs are not designed to be repeaters (also called routers). They function only as end devices - much like battery operated Zigbee devices.
Because they are end devices, the Sengled bulbs cannot form a true mesh network, since they must connect directly to the Hubitat Elevation hub. In order to take advantage of the mesh network capability that makes Zigbee protocol such a robust smart home platform, users must add dedicated, always-on Zigbee repeaters (like smart plugs, dedicated signal repeaters, or some other mains-powered smart devices) placed strategically throughout your home to form a stable mesh network.
Recommended Repeater / Non-Repeater Ratio
There is no hard-and-fast ratio for Zigbee protocol, as performance is highly dependent on your home's construction (brick, plaster, etc.) and interference. However, common best practice recommends focusing on coverage and proximity rather than a strict number:
General Guidance:
| Component | Recommendation | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Placement | Place repeaters midway between your hub and your farthest Sengled bulbs/end devices. | Ensures good signal coverage for all end devices. You want devices to connect to the closest router/repeater. |
| Density | Aim for at least one good repeater per main area (room, floor, hallway). | This creates overlapping coverage, giving your non-repeater devices multiple reliable paths back to the hub. |
| Hub Limit | Older Hubitat Elevation hubs have a limit of 32 end devices that can be directly connected to the hub, you MUST add repeaters to add more devices. If you have a C-8 Pro hub, this limit is 64 end devices. | Repeaters count as one connection to the hub, but allow many non-repeater devices (like your Sengled bulbs) to connect through them. |
Key Takeaways
- Sengled bulbs are end devices only — they do not repeat signals.
- Without repeaters, your Zigbee network can become weak or unreliable as you add more Sengled bulbs.
- Aim for at least one repeater per 5–7 non-repeating Zigbee devices to maintain a stable, responsive system.
Building a strong mesh from the start will save you headaches later and keep your smart home running smoothly.
