How to Make Your String Lights Smart
How to Make Your String Lights Smart (and Your Patio Way More Magical)
If you’ve ever wrestled with plugging and unplugging your string lights every night—or just wish you could control them from your cozy spot on the couch—this post is for you.
I finally made the switch to smart outdoor lighting, and let me just say: game changer. Not only do our string lights turn on with a tap from my phone, but I can also schedule them to come on automatically whenever I want, control them from my smart home device (Google Home, Alexa, etc) or use the Pico remote that also doubles as a switch.
Here’s exactly what I used and how easy it was to set up:
Step 1: Get the Right Smart Plug
This is the magic behind it all. I’m using the Lutron Caséta Outdoor Smart Plug, which is made for outdoor use and built to withstand the elements. It’s heavy-duty, reliable, and works seamlessly with the Lutron app and Smart Hub.
Step 2: Download the Lutron App
Once your plug is connected (mine lives tucked under the deck), just download the Lutron app and follow the prompts to add your new smart plug. I named mine “Deck String Lights,” and now I can turn them on/off, create schedules, or pair it with other smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home.
Step 3: Add Your String Lights
Plug in any ordinary string lights directly into the Lutron smart plug (that is paired with your Lutron Smart Hub) and you're done. Seriously—it’s that easy. Now I can set them to turn on automatically every evening or manually control them when we’re hosting or having a quiet night in.
Why I Love This Setup
No more crawling around under furniture to unplug lights.
Can automate lights to turn on and off at whatever time you want.
Looks super impressive when you “magically” turn them on from your phone.
Great for entertaining (especially when your dog looks this relaxed under a warm glow).
If you’re ready to level up your patio lighting, grab this smart outdoor plug, and thank me later. Whether you’re winding down after work or throwing a summer party, smart lighting totally changes the vibe.
Links at a Glance
To complete the look and functionality of your smart patio, consider these additional items:
