GE/Jasco Z-Wave Plus in-wall smart switches

Overview

Features

• Z-Wave Plus certification with 500 series chip for extended range and reliability
• Built-in motion sensor on select models with adjustable timeout (5 seconds to 15 minutes)
• Ambient light sensing prevents motion activation in already-lit rooms
• Manual override capability maintains physical switch control independent of automation
• LED indicator light with customizable on/off state and brightness
• Association groups enable direct switch-to-switch control without hub processing
• Works with neutral or non-neutral wire configurations on dimmer models
• Compatible with standard decorator wallplates and multi-gang boxes

Specifications

Price	$35-$55 per switch (motion models higher)
Protocol	Z-Wave Plus (500 series)
Hub Required	Yes (Z-Wave controller/hub)
Power	Wired (120VAC line voltage)
Cloud Dependency	Local (Z-Wave mesh network)
HA Integration	Native (Z-Wave JS)
Voice Control	Alexa / Google / Siri (via HA)
Dimensions	4.2 x 1.7 x 1.1 inches (standard decorator size)
Warranty	1 year limited warranty

Home Assistant Integration

Integration Method: Z-Wave JS

• Requirements: Z-Wave USB controller (Aeotec Z-Stick 7, Zooz ZST10, or similar), Z-Wave JS add-on or Z-Wave JS UI Docker container, neutral wire in switch box (for most models)
• Entities: Switch or light entity for load control, binary motion sensor (on motion models), number entities for LED brightness and motion timeout configuration, sensor entity for energy monitoring (select models)
• Setup: Install Z-Wave JS integration, put controller in inclusion mode, triple-press switch paddle to add device, configure parameters via device configuration page for motion sensitivity and timeout
• Notes: Motion sensor entity updates immediately on detection, configure association groups for local switch control between devices, enable S2 security during pairing for encrypted communication

Practical Considerations

• Neutral Wire Required: Most models require neutral wire connection, verify box wiring before purchasing, older homes may need rewiring or special non-neutral dimmer models
• Motion Sensor Limitations: PIR motion sensor has 90-degree field of view and 30-foot range, placement behind door swings or in corners reduces effectiveness
• LED Compatibility: Dimmer models work best with dimmable LED bulbs rated for electronic low-voltage dimmers, cheap LED bulbs may flicker or buzz at low brightness
• Paddle Action: Triple-press paddle action for inclusion/exclusion can be finicky, practice timing and pressure for consistent results
• Heat Dissipation: Switches generate moderate heat under load, avoid installing in tightly packed multi-gang boxes with minimal airflow
• Motion Timeout Behavior: Motion timeout countdown resets on each new motion event, rapid movements can extend illumination beyond configured timeout
• Network Placement: Switches act as Z-Wave repeaters when powered, strategic placement improves mesh network coverage throughout home

Scores

Category	Score	Rationale
Features	★★★★☆	Solid feature set with motion sensing, configurable parameters, and association groups, lacks energy monitoring on most models
Interoperability	★★★★★	Z-Wave Plus ensures compatibility with any certified controller, works seamlessly with Home Assistant Z-Wave JS integration
Setup Ease	★★★☆☆	Requires electrical knowledge for wiring, Z-Wave pairing is straightforward but parameter configuration requires technical understanding
Cloud Dependency	★★★★★	Fully local Z-Wave mesh operation, no cloud services required, maintains manual control during network outages
Vendor Trust	★★★★☆	Jasco is established in Z-Wave market with consistent product availability, but firmware updates are rare
Overall	★★★★☆	Reliable workhorse switches for whole-home automation, proven track record, good value for Z-Wave deployments

References

Official	Product Page · Specifications Sheet
Home Assistant	Z-Wave JS Integration
Buy	Amazon (26931) · Amazon (Dimmer)