Best products from r/Abode
We found 43 comments on r/Abode discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 83 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Leviton DZ15S-1BZ Decora Smart Switch with Z-Wave Technology, White/Light Almond, Repeater/Range Extender
- Z-WAVE PLUS CERTIFIED: requires Z-Wave hub such as SmartThings or Wink
- VOICE CONTROL: works with Alexa (Z-Wave hub required, Alexa device and hub sold separately)
- STYLE: familiar Decora form factor accepts optional wallplates and 6 color change kits
- RATINGS: requires Neutral Wire; LED and CFL up to 600W, incandescent up to 1800W, fluorescent ballast loads up to 15A.
- MULTI-LOCATION: facilitates multi-location (3-way) switching with DD0SR-1LZ coordinating remote (no LED indicator) or DD0SR-DLZ matching remote (with LED indicator).
- LEVITON: Making your home smarter and safer since 1906. Designed, engineered, and supported in USA with a 5-Year Limited .
Features:
2. GoControl Z-Wave Dimmable LED Light Bulb, LB60Z-1
60 Watt Equivalent LED Dimming Light Bulb with Z-WaveCompatible with any certified Z-Wave based system such as Nexia Home IntelligenceInstant on and fully dimmable22.8 year life at 3 hrs per day average use60W equivalent, 9 Watt usage. 2700k pleasant soft white
3. GE 14291 Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Smart Light Switch, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, Zwave Hub Required, Repeater/Range Extender, 3-Way Ready 1st Gen, White & Light Almond
4. GE Z-Wave Wireless Smart Lighting Control Light Switch, On/Off Paddle, In-Wall, White & Lt. Almond Paddles, Repeater & Range Extender, Zwave Hub Required- Works with SmartThings Wink and Alexa, 12722
- "ALEXA COMPATIBLE - REQUIRES AN ALEXA SUPPORTED HUB for voice control with Echo Products (Alexa device and hub sold separately). CANNOT connect directly with ECHO PLUS (Only ZigBee products can connect directly to Echo Plus).
- Requires a Z-Wave certified gateway. Compatible with the following Z-Wave certified Hubs: SmartThings, Wink, ADT Pulse, Trane, Vivint, Nexia, Honeywell, HomeSeer, Harmony Home Hub Extender, Vera, Connect and Iris. Works with Alexa for voice control (hub required; Alexa device and hub sold separately).
- Easily replace any standard in-wall switch with the GE Z-Wave Smart Switch to control permanently installed lighting or fans with your mobile device or computer using any Z-Wave certified gateway.
- Can be controlled in groups of multiple lights or turned on or off within ambient interior lighting scenes.
- Requires in-wall installation with hard-wired connections - Neutral wire REQUIRED. Includes white and light almond paddles (wall plate not included).
Features:
5. Yale Assure Lock SL with Z-Wave - Smart Key Free Touchscreen Keypad Deadbolt - Works with Ring Alarm, Samsung SmartThings, Wink, ADT and More - Satin Nickel
- Unlock your door without keys by entering your code on the lock's backlit keypad; Lock the door behind you by pressing any button or by enabling auto relock
- Lock and unlock your door from anywhere by adding the lock to a compatible Z-Wave smart home or alarm system and app (i.e. Samsung SmartThings, Ring Alarm, Wink, etc.). Requires compatible hub sold separately and app - no Yale app is used for this lock
- Replaces your existing deadbolt in minutes on standard doors, 1-3/8" to 2-1/4" thick with just a screwdriver. No additional holes needed. Mounting hardware and batteries included
- 9V battery terminal prevents lock out due to dead batteries. Fits on doors 1 3/8" to 2 1/4" thick. Environmental 22F to 140F
- Works with Alexa via a compatible hub. Features may vary based on Z-Wave controller. Requires compatible system for smart features
- Backed by Yale, the world's favorite lock brand since 1840 with a lifetime limited on finish and mechanical hardware
- Don't worry about getting locked out with dead batteries, the lock has a 9V back-up charger on the keypad. Just hold a 9V battery to the terminals and enter your code to unlock
- Features a BHMA Grade 2 certified deadbolt that's fully motorized and super quiet
- Don't worry about marking your door, the lock has a rubber gasket to protect your door's finish
- Enable Auto Relock to ensure your door always locks behind you - Disable it at any time from the lock menu. Strike Dimension-1 x 2 1/4 inch
Features:
6. Zooz Z-Wave Plus Power Switch ZEN15 for 110V AC Units, Sump Pumps, Humidifiers, and More
- POWERFUL PLUG: The only Z-Wave Plug that lets you safely control and monitor heavy-duty 110V appliances from your Z-Wave smart home system. Connect your refrigerator, humidifier or dehumidifier, AC unit, fan, sump pump, or a gas clothes dryer to Z-Wave. NEW: 45 degree angled plug so you can fit 2 Smart Switches in a single receptacle!
- POWERFUL Z-WAVE: With built-in Z-Wave Plus signal repeater and range test tool, the Power Switch will boost your whole Z-Wave network while keeping it protected with AES signal encryption.
- POWERFUL CONTROL: Monitor energy use of connected appliances in live mode or over time with W, kWh, A, and V reports (your Z-Wave hub needs to support this feature). NOTE: It is NOT a power outage monitor! Quick status reports to the controller and on/off state recovery after power failure.
- POWERFUL HARDWARE: Made from high-quality components that will last, even when it's very cold or very hot (14° - 104°F, indoor use only). ETL certified: complies with North American electrical safety standards. Extra-thick flexible cord is perfect for installations with no immediate access to a receptacle.
- COMPATIBILITY: Use the Power Switch with any certified Z-Wave gateway for simple on/off control (Wink, Z-Wave alarm panels). Advanced settings and energy monitoring available for open systems only, including Vera, SmartThings (custom device handler required, contact seller first), HomeSeer, and Fibaro Home Center Lite.
Features:
7. Yale Key Free Touchscreen Deadbolt with Z-Wave in Oil Rubbed Bronze -Works with Amazon Alexa via SmartThings or Wink (YRD240-ZW-
- Works with Alexa for voice control (hub required, Alexa device and hub sold separately).
Features:
8. Heavy-Duty Exterior Mounting Tape, Holds 5 lb., 1 in x 60 in Roll
- Use instead of nails or screws
- High conformability adheres easily to your item and the surface
- Delivers a strong, permanent bond on contact
- Holds up to 15 lbs. per 60”/ (1 lb. per 4"of tape)
- Easy-to-apply design with no mess or tools
- Ideal for use on finished/painted surfaces, metal, plastic, vinyl and more
- Intended for outdoor use
- Works best when applied between 50°-100° F
- Ensure your surface is smooth, clean and dry for the best bond
- Size: 1 in. x 60 in.
Features:
9. Yale Assure Lock with Z-Wave - Smart Touchscreen Keypad Deadbolt - Works with Ring Alarm, Samsung SmartThings, Wink, ADT and More - Satin Nickel
Unlock your door without keys by entering your code on the lock's backlit touchscreen keypad; Lock the door behind you with a tap or by enabling Auto Relock.Enable Auto Relock to ensure your door always locks behind you - Disable it at any time from the lock menu.Lock and unlock your door from anywh...
10. Securifi Peanut Smart Plug (1 Minute Setup) - Remotely Monitor and Control Lights Appliances using Free iOS/Android Apps and Browser Interface - White
- NEEDS:: Echo Plus/Almond 3/Almond+/Almond 2015
- Simple 1 Minute Setup
- Free Almond app for iOS & Android; also controllable via a standard web browser
- Works with lights appliances, washers, dryers, heaters, in-wall air conditioners, fans, TVs, game consoles etc.
- Remotely turn appliances on/off; monitor and save energy by identifying energy hogging devices in minutes
Features:
11. Sensative Z-Wave Plus Ultra Thin Door/Window Contact Sensor Strips Guard, Good for Outdoor Installation
RELIABLE OPEN/CLOSE REPORTS: Monitor doors, windows, gates, and cabinets from your smart home app when you're away. Get text and email notifications whenever the sensor is triggered. Compatible Z-Wave hub required, sold separately. Works with SmartThings, Vera, Fibaro, Wink, and HomeSeer. NOT suppor...
12. Leviton DZ1KD-1BZ Decora Smart 1000W Dimmer with Z-Wave Technology, White/Light Almond, Repeater/Range Extender
- Z-WAVE PLUS CERTIFIED: requires Z-Wave hub such as SmartThings or Wink
- VOICE CONTROL: works with Alexa (Z-Wave hub required, Alexa device and hub sold separately)
- STYLE: familiar Decora form factor accepts optional wall plates and 6 color change kits
- RATINGS: requires Neutral Wire; Dimmable LED and CFL loads up to 450W and incandescent loads up to 1000W
- MULTI-LOCATION: facilitates multi-location (3-way) dimming with up to 4 remote units (DD00R).
- LEVITON: Making your home smarter and safer since 1906. Designed, engineered, and supported in USA with a 5-Year Limited .
Features:
13. Leviton DZPD3-2BW Decora Smart Plug-in Dimmer with Z-Wave Technology, White, Repeater/Range Extender
- Z-WAVE PLUS CERTIFIED: requires Z-Wave hub such as SmartThings or Wink
- VOICE CONTROL: works with Alexa (Z-Wave hub required, Alexa device and hub sold separately)
- CONTROL: Provides polarized 300W-120VAC NEMA receptacle for table, floor, and hanging plug-in lamps.
- LEVITON: Making your home smarter and safer since 1906. Designed, engineered, and supported in USA with a 5-Year Limited .
- SMART: Protected memory maintains ON/OFF status of loads and during minor power fluctuations
- RATINGS: LED and CFL up to 600W, incandescent/fluorescent/halogen up to 1800W, ½ HP Motor Loads
Features:
14. Yale Z-Wave Real Living Key Free Touchscreen Deadbolt, Works with Amazon Alexa via SmartThings, Satin Nickel, YRD240-ZW-619
- Works with Alexa for voice control (hub required, Alexa device and hub sold separately).
Features:
15. YI Home Camera, Wi-Fi IP Indoor Security System with Motion Detection, Night Vision for Baby / Pet / Front Porch Monitor, Remote Control with iOS, Android, PC App - Cloud Service Available (White)
- Records in 720p HD to capture clear images for your records and while using 2-way audio (built-in microphone and speaker). 720P/20FPS,700Kbps; 360P/20FPS,200Kbps.
- 111° wide-angle lens, 940nm infrared non-invasive sensor, 4x digital zoom. Capture the scene in clarity with the wide-angle lens and zoom capabilities. The non-invasive sensor will not disturb your sleeping children.
- Built-in support for 802.11b/g/n 2.4Ghz (5Ghz currently not supported) WIFI band. Reliable Wi-Fi connectivity to access your camera with YI Home App on mobile device, and YI Home App on PC at anytime, anywhere.
- No monthly subscription fees: Secure your videos on a micro SD card, own your video content and access video history anytime. Supports upto 32GB SD micro SD cards with FAT32 format.
- Real-time streaming to your phone & activity alerts when motion is detected. YI Home App allows you to customize your settings according to your preferences: defined activity regions, camera sharing, customize alert schedules, and more. Available for iOS and Android.
Features:
16. VideoSecu 2 Pack 2-6 inch Metal Wall Ceiling Mounts Adjustable Pan Tilt Video Camera Mounting Brackets with Ceiling Clip for CCTV DVR Home Installation Surveillance System 1SG
- 360 degrees turn and rotation, 90 degrees tilt
- All parts interchangeable, all metal construction
- Base plate 2 3/8" diameter, 1/4" / 20 threads throughout
- Each set includes two 2" shafts, one 2" X-base, one 1" base extender, one 2 3/8" round base and one head
- VideoSecu brand. If you did not see VideoSecu logo on box, please report to Amazon.com
Features:
17. Leviton DD0SR-1Z 120VAC Decora Digital/Decora Smart Coordinating Switch Remote
- PRACTICAL – Provides ON/OFF switching for more than one location (Must be used in conjunction with a Decora Smart or a Decora Digital switch)
- VERSATILE – Can use with up to 9 additional companion switches (sold separately)
- FLEXIBLE – Alternative wiring method available for applications where a neutral wire is not present (see product instruction sheet)
- ROBUST –Neutral wire or load side required for installation
Features:
18. D-Link DCH-S150 mydlink Wi-Fi Smart Motion Sensor
- Detect motion up to 26 feet with a sensor angle of: horizontal 100 degree, vertical 80 degree
- Operating temperature: -10 to +40°C (14 to 104°F ) for land use, Temperature: 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F) for underwater use.Connect with mydlink smart plugs and cameras to turn on/off devices or start video recording
- Receive push notifications via mobile app
- Connects to existing network with 24GHz Wi-Fi
- Mydlink iOS and Android mobile app & one button setup (WPS) for easy setup
- IFTTT compatible - Pair with any IFTTT enabled product or app to connect your Wi-Fi Motion Sensor in fun and useful ways Please refer the User Manual before use
Features:
19. First Alert Photoelectric Smoke Detector | 10 Year Sealed Battery Backup, P1010
This photoelectric smoke alarm offers reliable smoke detection in a sleek, ultra-compact design; extended-life, tamper-proof 3V sealed lithium battery effectively provides up to 10 years of monitoring, requiring no battery changes for the life of the alarmPhotoelectric sensor detects smoke from smol...
20. TAQTON Neodymium Magnets N52 Ring w/Countersunk Hole, 4 Pack, 34 lbs Holding Force, 1.26”D x 0.20”H. Super Strong Permanent Rare Earth Magnets. DIY, Kitchen/Garage Tool Organizer Magnets
- NEODYMIUM N52 GRADE - The Strongest Grade Available and therefore Stronger Than Any Comparable Products of a Lower Grade such as N35, N42, N45, N48.
- PULLING FORCE – A Powerful 33.5 lbs Along the Magnetization Axis with a Disc Thickness of Only 0.20"
- INCLUDES COUNTERSUNK HOLE - The Countersunk Holes Allow Hardware Such as Screws, Hammers, Knives, Keys or Signs to Sit Flush With the Surface. Simply Bolt the Magnet Into Your Preferred Mounting Surface and Place the Desired Object Against it. Works with a #10 Screw.
- IDEAL FOR MANY USES - These Magnets are Ideal for DIY Purposes, as Refrigerator Magnets, Science Project Magnets, at Work or in the Office, for Scientific Purposes, for Quickly Organizing and Hanging Your Tools in the Workshop, and Decluttering Your Home and Garage.
- 100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We Only Supply Magnets of the Highest Quality and Are Confident that you will Love Your Neodymium Magnets
Features:
Non-abode cameras are limited as to what will work directly with Abode. Not a major loss in my opinion. I have one Nest camera, from my girlfriend's old apartment install, tied in to abode but it doesn't do too much with abode. It only seems to pull a single capture upon me manually telling it to. There are only a few that intergrate with abode.
That said I haven't delved to deep into it. I personally mostly use poe IP cameras with the feeds piping to a local computer running Blueiris. Cheap, local, and pretty robust software.
Automation is fairly good with Abode. Check the list on the sidebar of this sub-reddit. Use that list for official and unofficialy supported devices. Not all zwave devices are automatically compatible. I have most of my light switches with zwave connections and a garage door controler. Beyond that and Abode's devices I use other individual apps to control it. Neato vacuum and Rainmachine sprinkler controls for example I'd rather have their own company's interface.
I've gone with the Leviton brand switches. I liked the feel and control of their dimmers, while still being similar to a regular switch. This is a plus when the tech illiterate or guests come over and try to use them. They synced up first time with no issues. Fast and responsive when commands are sent. Dimming works well through Abode. I also have a Phillips color light strip that works just as well.
For my "dumb" ceiling fans on or off control (no stage or variable speed remotely):
Leviton DZ15S-1BZ Decora Smart Switch with Z-Wave Plus Technology, White/Light Almond, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ0WVKH/
Leviton DZ1KD-1BZ Decora Smart 1000W Dimmer with Z-Wave Plus Technology, White/Light Almond, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQX5L8P/
For bedside lamps, and a few other lamps:
Leviton DZPD3-2BW Decora Smart Plug-in Dimmer with Z-Wave Plus Technology, White, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7NPRSB/
I have other Wemo switches in the bathrooms that don't interface with Abode. I did this because they offered a more direct way to put automated countdown trimmers on exhaust fans. I really couldn't find a way with Abode & IFTTT to do countdown timers based on when I clicked the switch. Abode with IFTTT can do sun up, sun down, specific times, and other triggers but not count downs from when the switch was clicked on. There may be a way but I'm not much for programming. I also liked the wemo dimmer switch look, but only for the bathrooms since they couldn't do a two/three way switch. I don't normally need to control the bathrooms remotely, but can through the Wemo app if I need to.
I can't speak to voice automation. I have an Alexa pod but don't like to use it for other reasons.
Beyond that I went with Abode sensors. They work very well. I got onto Abode in part because of the water leak sensors. They work and saved me some water damage when the AC froze over and started leaking in the attic. The occupancy sensors are neat but I haven't made good use of them. The temperature sensors work but I wish they kept a running history of temps.
Windows and doors I used the old security system's reed switches and wiring soldered into individual abode door sensors. Works like a charm and is completly hidden. Added in acoustic and vibration/glass break sensors in various rooms for added layer of sensing.
Smoke alarm detector works well with my existing smoke alarms. They call you pretty darn fast with the monitoring service. I'd like to upgrade to something like Nest's smoke alarms but they currently are expensive to replace a large home's worth of fire alarms and don't automatically call the fire department through Abode.
Let me know what other questions you have and I'll try to answer them.
Be very careful when buying smart switches to ensure that they will work with LED bulbs. The Leviton switches listed by abode as compatible will NOT work with LED bulbs.
If you want to use Leviton switches that WILL work with LED bulbs, this is their newest Z-wave switch.
Leviton DZ15S-1BZ Decora Smart Switch with Z-Wave Plus Technology
I have that switch and it works fine and dandy; just got it about a month ago. I'm assuming the dimmer would work just as well, but it's just a guess.
Others here have had good luck with the GE switches and LED bulbs. I started down the Leviton route and didn't want mixed brands, so haven't gotten any GE switches yet.
Also, it might be worth it to make sure you have neutral wiring in whatever location you want to install a switch. I have neutral wiring throughout my house, but there is one room where it looks like the electrician got lazy and the switch was wired from light, and therefore I don't have a neutral in that one.
The Abode Reddit Wiki has a list of unofficial compatible devices which includes the Yale lock. I purchased Yale Assure Lock Key Free Touchscreen Deadbolt with Z-Wave in Satin Nickel (YRD240-ZW-619) from Amazon and it works like a charm with the Abode gateway. As soon as I can I'm buying another lock for the other entry door.
Best of luck.
i realize this is an old topic, but i just recently picked up some Yi Home indoor cameras and they are amazing value.
https://www.amazon.com/YI-Camera-Wireless-Security-Surveillance/dp/B016F3M7OM/
they're Dropcam/Nest cam clones. there is 7 seconds of cloud access and if you want to see more, you can stream it from the microSD card in the device. I have set it to record upon motion and there's a 32gb card in it that I heard can hold weeks of data. You could also have it record continuously however that would likely wear out the card faster. i am researching outdoor mounts but this is a great value over Arlo and anyone that doesn't want to overspend.
there was some concern about the chinese owning your 7 second clips or whatever. i am not so concerned about anyone knowing who visits my porch or backyard as long as i am aware, as well. it is the price of cloud computing.
other downsides are you are required to use their app vs. blueiris or your own app, however i understand there is 3rd party firmware out there that fixes this issue, if you want to flash that.
edit: Also ... a set of 4 Arlo cameras is currently $349 at Best Buy, if you're stuck on getting something that can work with Abode or your SmartThings
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/netgear-arlo-smart-home-indoor-outdoor-wireless-high-definition-security-cameras-4-pack-white-black/1668003.p?loc=0&
I don't have the video cam, so I can't offer up specific recs, but there are a number of mini/pocket sized tripods with small ball swivel heads that might help if you're wanting to set it on a shelf or table. Manfrotto offers a pretty solid one, or some of the ones sold as cell phone tripods might work if they aren't so lightweight that they fall over easily.
Alternatively, something like this could also work, though depending on camera weight or the center of gravity, you'd probably need to screw it down to the shelf or to a board painted to match: https://www.amazon.com/VideoSecu-Adjustable-Mounting-Installation-Surveillance/dp/B001D49TU4/
We have one with a key: "Yale Assure Lock Touchscreen Keypad with Z-Wave, Satin Nickel, YRD226ZW2619":
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y2C4QQG
and two without a key: Yale Assure Lock SL with Z-Wave Plus - Key Free Door Lock with Touchscreen Keypad (YRD256ZW2619):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076WZT4VD
They work well for us. You don't need to get the August version, as they will connect to Abode via Z-Wave.
We don't use geofencing to unlock the doors.
Good luck!
You really can't avoid MyQ anymore. Chamberlain, Liftmaster, Craftsman, etc are all the same manufacturer. I personally said screw it I'm getting the best MyQ opener. Ended up with a couple jackshaft Liftmaster Elite 8500s. Took about 30 minutes to install by myself.
You really can't pick a keyless keypad, which is why I like the Yale. They basically have to destroy the lock with brute force to access the internals to open the door. They'd be more likely to just kick/pry the door open than banging on your deadbolt for an hour.
Quality seems good so far. Keypad is inline with the competition from what I've seen. I recommend Yale keyless to all my friends.
I have a couple of these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HS1O5JG/ref=twister_B06Y6G2HB4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This one works great for me.
Yale Assure Lock SL with Z-Wave Plus - Key Free Door Lock with Touchscreen Keypad - Works with SmartThings, Wink and More (YRD256ZW2619) in Satin Nickel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076WZT4VD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_aodtDb5967FK1
The newer version that supports z-wave plus. Just the on/off model, not the dimmer. Model #14291.
GE Z-Wave Plus Wireless Smart Lighting Control Smart Switch, On/Off, In-Wall, Includes White & Light Almond Paddles, Works with Amazon Alexa, 14291 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M1AHC3R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QiyeAb380Q4QY
Is the pump plugged into an outlet? If so, why not get a zwave power switch that reports how many amps are being drawn. https://www.amazon.com/Z-Wave-Power-Switch-ZEN15-Humidifiers/dp/B07578W7KY/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=zwave+cord&qid=1557887622&s=gateway&sr=8-2
You'd also need a zwave hub if you don't have one. Personally think it's good to keep your smart home tech separate from your security tech.
I agree with the others that a motion detector and possibly a glass break sensor covering this area might be better here. I've read that burglars usually just smash basement windows rather than try to open and crawl through.
If you really want to use a contact sensor here, you might be able to use a thinner, rare earth magnet in place of the provided magnet. Something like this might work if you have enough clearance.
https://www.amazon.com/TAQTON-Neodymium-Countersunk-Permanent-Organizer/dp/B01C5KKU7K
I have looked at some WiFi plugs on amazon for around $10 that will integrate with IFTTT and do what I need. I might go that route but wanted to see if any plugs in that general price range ($10-20) could be added to the abode system directly. IFTTT, while pretty solid, does have periodic lags in activation.
Securifi Peanut Smart Plug
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TC9NC82/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_mhEBCbMV540DK
Saw this mentioned in the past. Anyone using this or something similar?
You have a big enough gap at the top for the sensitive strip, which is my favorite door sensor so far, I can’t even tell that it’s there
Sensative Z-Wave Plus Ultra Thin Door/Window Contact Sensor Strips Guard, Good for Outdoor Installation https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LWMTUI8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_F1xPAb7DYFHXN
When you say triggered, do you mean like when someone breaks into your house?
I have it currently setup so that when I get home, the garage door opens (https://www.lowes.com/pd/Iris-Z-Wave-Garage-Door-Controller-Works-with-Iris/50213045) and my interior lights turn on.
To get the lights to work, I have GE Z wave switches (https://www.amazon.com/GE-Wireless-Lighting-Control-12722/dp/B0035YRCR2) and some GE Link LED bulbs (https://www.amazon.com/GE-Wireless-Connected-60-Watt-Equivalent/dp/B00NOL16K0/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1478189524&sr=1-1&keywords=ge+link).
I don't have any Hue products (yet) but I believe they require a hub to allow them to communicate to abode (not sure though)
For dusk to dawn you can buy a $8 sensor from Lowes. I know it's fun to have everything on the Abode hub, but if all you're going to do is dusk to dawn, the sensor is easy. I have these on all exterior lights.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/Woods-Hard-Wire-Photocell-Mini/999912897
Or you could change the light switch that controls the outside lights to a Zwave switch four about $38 and control it that way.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0035YRCR2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use Ge z-wave plus switches and dimmers with abode today and they work great. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M1AHC3R?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
I don’t have the Lutron Caseta so I am not sure about the hub question.
As far as the Z wave switches, I think what you described is ugly. Don’t like that as well.
You can consider the [decora style switches like this] (https://www.amazon.com/GE-Wireless-Lighting-Control-14291/dp/B01M1AHC3R/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1510605291&sr=8-4&keywords=ge+zwave+switch&dpID=41orYO6Z%252BWL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch).
The [Eaton Aspire] (https://www.amazon.com/Eaton-RF9501AW-ASPIRE-Single-Pole-Wireless/dp/B004SCU5N8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1510605483&sr=8-3&keywords=eaton+z+wave+switch&dpID=41nBCVqdAgL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch) switches sook pretty nice too but it’s only zwave and not zwave plus.
Smart switch is in fact the solution. I'm using this Leviton to do exactly what you described.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ0WVKH/ref=sr_ob_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492107608&sr=8-1
Not sure if this is what you're looking for, but it works with abode and it's a dimmer.
I have it programmed to turn on when an alarm is triggered. Pretty sure it can't flash though.
We recommend using the 3M or Scotch indoor outdoor Mounting Tape. It's gray with a red peel off backing that you can cut to fit. It can be found at Walmart or your local hardware stores. Below is a link to the tape from amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/3M-Scotch-4011-Exterior-Mounting/dp/B00004Z4BV/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498474461&sr=8-1&keywords=3M+Scotch+4011+Exterior+Mounting+Tape%2C+1+in+x+60+in
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y2C4QQG/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_3inSDbNXT7B90
I find Z-Wave locks are always a pain in the ass to get paired initially, otherwise it works perfectly. I can send you my automation tomorrow, was pretty easy to get working
Here are some techniques that other customers have used and had some success with.
A. Use a 2" long peace of Monofilament fishing line or dental floss as a saw to cut the 2-sided tape. Place the line between the device and the surface it is stuck to, and saw as you pull the line across the surface.
B. Using a dull butter knife by prying at the corner of the device and slowly work your way around the device while prying a little at a time.
abode does not sell the two sided tape so we recommend using the 3M or Scotch indoor-outdoor Mounting Tape, it is gray with a red peel off backing and you can cut to fit. Found at Walmart and your local hardware stores.
Link to the tape of choice:
https://www.amazon.com/3M-Scotch-4011-Exterior-Mounting/dp/B00004Z4BV/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498474461&sr=8-1&keywords=3M+Scotch+4011+Exterior+Mounting+Tape%2C+1+in+x+60+in
Check out the Sensative strip sensors too - these look slick (and no drilling needed).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LWMTUI8/nothingreal
They also claim up to 10 years of battery life (but there's no way to change batteries - they're effectively disposable at that point.)
I just got an email from Abode saying they plan to support them 'in the near future'.