In this article we find out more about how Shelly devices are empowering users to create smarter, more efficient environments that enhance comfort, convenience, and productivity, and we get feedback from one very happy user.
In the rapidly evolving world of smart technology, electricians are under constant pressure to deliver seamless, efficient, and value-driven solutions for their clients. As the scope of technology increases, installers who donβt specialise in the field often face challenges β from high costs and steep learning curves to the need for extensive rewiring.
Shelly changes that. With a market cap of 610 million EUR (SLYG.F) and a new Shelly device installed every 6.5 seconds globally, its influence is undeniable.
A series of WiFi operated relays, switches and sensors, Shelly devices are compact enough to be installed in almost any pattress box, appliance or fuse board style enclosure. It uses existing and familiar wiring infrastructure to connect devices to the internet.
With Shelly, customers can control lighting, heating, blinds, and more, from a browser, free mobile App or custom API driven application. The best part? Shelly is affordable, versatile, and can be installed in under ten minutes.
Elevating electrical installations
Ben Pratt (pictured), the founder of B Electrical, has found that Shelly smart devices are the perfect tools to elevate his electrical installations.
With over a decade of experience in the field and a growing interest in automation, Ben has made Shelly a core part of his work β and the results speak for themselves.
Benβs journey into smart automation began as a response to increasing client demand for energy-efficient solutions.
βMore people are asking for smart features in their homes and businesses,β he explains. βItβs no longer a luxury β itβs becoming the standard.β
B Electrical was founded on the principle of blending traditional electrical expertise with innovative technology, and Shelly has become a crucial partner in helping achieve that goal.
Here, Ben provides further detail by answering a few quick questions:
Q. How did you first come across Shelly devices, and what made you decide to incorporate them into your electrical installations?
I was looking for a wireless retrofit solution for some LED strips. Nothing on the market matched Shelly in terms of flexibility, ease of installation, and price point.
I installed a Shelly relay, and the simplicity blew me away. Unlike other systems that require hubs or complex rewiring, Shelly integrates directly with existing electrical systems without the need for additional hardware. The relay fitted neatly behind the existing light switch, and within minutes, I had automated lighting controllable from my phone and light switch.
Q. Before using Shelly, what kind of smart home tools did you use, and how does it compare?
I used WiFi-enabled fused connection units from a few well known industry brands but they required significant rewiring to achieve the same results as the Shelly devices and often impacted the aesthetics of the installation.
Shelly has this perfect balance between professional-grade functionality and user-friendliness. Itβs sophisticated enough for commercial use but also simple enough for home projects too.
Other systems can be too complex to set up without proprietary hubs. Shelly doesnβt need a hub β it integrates directly with the existing Wi-Fi network. Plus, the range of devices is extensive. You can automate lighting, heating, and even roller shutters, all within the same ecosystem.
Q. From an electricianβs perspective, what makes Shelly easy to work with?
Shelly devices fit behind standard switches or within electrical DIN enclosures, which means I can install them quickly without needing extra space. Theyβre compatible with over 200 platforms like Google Home and Alexa, and the integrations are seamless.
Devices pop up automatically, and the instructions are simple to follow. A typical install involves cutting power, wiring the Shelly behind a switch or socket, and connecting it to WiFi. Thereβs no need to replace switches or set up hubs β itβs all done in under 15 minutes.
Q. How does Shelly benefit your clients, both residential and commercial?
Shelly is incredibly cost-effective. Clients love that they can achieve full automation at a fraction of the price compared to other systems. Iβve seen projects save near on 75% on materials and labour by choosing Shelly over conventional smart solutions.
For homeowners, Shelly provides an affordable and simple way to step into smart living by automating lights and appliances without breaking the bank.
For commercial projects, Shelly focuses on efficient energy management. Iβve installed the relays in offices and warehouses, enabling businesses to monitor and cut down on energy consumption, ultimately lowering costs and improving sustainability.
Q. How do you typically use Shelly devices in your daily electrical work?
Lighting control is the most common use of Shelly devices in my installations. Being able to pull all lights into a central control system wirelessly, fed from different circuits, all whilst maintaining the existing control at the switch, is great. Shelly even remembers the switchβs state, so thereβs no visible sign of automation.
Q. How can you use Shelly products as a tool to reduce overall energy costs?
Shellyβs energy metering provides real-time tracking of both consumption and production. With built-in power monitoring, you can precisely record energy usage for any connected device and seamlessly integrate with other Shelly relays to automate electrical systems.
Iβve used Shelly to help residential and commercial clients identify high-energy appliances and create automated schedules and scenes that power down devices during off-peak hours. This small adjustment leads to noticeable savings over time.
Q. What advice would you give to electricians considering Shelly for the first time?
Start with a simple install β like a light switch relay or smart plug. The App is easy to navigate, and the process is straightforward. Once you try it, youβll want to explore more advanced products like the energy monitors or temperature sensors. Shelly opens up so many possibilities, whether youβre working on home automation or larger-scale commercial projects.
Q. Why should electricians embrace smart automation in general?
Automation is the future. Clients expect smart solutions, and as electricians, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Shelly simplifies the process, making our jobs easier while adding value for clients.
Q. Any final thoughts youβd like to share with readers?
With Shelly as a part of my toolkit, Iβve expanded my service offerings and future- proofed my business. Smart automation is the next big step for electricians, and Shelly makes it accessible and affordable β thatβs why itβs now a key part of my work.
Browse the full range of Shelly devices available from Net XL here
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