Top products from r/SmartThings

Assuming you have SmartThings (based on the /r), you can use any Z-wave or Zigbee switch. I've tried multiple (reputable) brands, based on what's on sale, and my experience has been they're all pretty much the same. But all mine look like modern paddle switches, there are other options out there.

It's debatable, but I'd call the 'gold standard' to be the GE switches. I was just providing a link to them in a thread yesterday and noticed they were on sale for $33, which is a damn good price. Looks like they rolled out an updated version so they're discounted, and personally I don't think the upgrades mean much. I just picked up 4 more, because... why not.

When those aren't on sale I've been going to Zooz. I like their small company attitude and they have terrific customer support. And they frequently have sales. You can get them on Amazon, but the sales are on their website.

These are the types of wall plates that I use. Easy to find in single, 2-, 3-, and even 4- gang. I have a custom made 7-gang at my house, so everything I've bought since was done to match that style.

But again, all these are because I wanted modern paddle switches and the "decora" style wall plates. You can get smart switches in traditional rockers, or modern version like the Caseta switches (which still use the decora shape).

SmartThings Version 3 Hub (I have the Version 2 Hub...you will have to look around for this one):
https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-SmartThings-Generation-GP-U999SJVLGDA-Automation/dp/B07FJGGWJL/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1540989501&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=smartthings+hub+2nd+generation&psc=1

GE Z-Wave Plus On/Off Light Switch:
https://www.amazon.com/GE-Repeater-Required-Works-SmartThings-14291/dp/B01M1AHC3R/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1540989582&sr=8-3&keywords=z-wave+switch

GE Z-Wave Plus Dimmer Switch:
https://www.amazon.com/GE-Repeater-Required-Works-SmartThings-14291/dp/B07361Y54Z/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1540989582&sr=8-3&keywords=z-wave%2Bswitch&th=1

GE Add On Switch (if you have a 3-way or 4-way switch):
https://www.amazon.com/GE-Bluetooth-Wireless-STANDALONE-12723/dp/B00RKJS8MQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1540989718&sr=8-3&keywords=z-wave+add+on+switch

ZigBee Motion Sensors:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F8ZHBLS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

ZigBee Door Sensors:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F956F3B/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

ZigBee Leak Sensors:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F951JDP/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

ZigBee Outlet Plug (you will need to replicate your ZigBee mesh, I use to motion activate lamps, turn lamps on/off at sunset/sunrise, etc.):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F96JB63/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Z-Wave Thermostat:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EJ7YO2/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

ZigBee RGB Landscape RGB LED Strips:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00R1PB2ZY/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

ZigBee RGB Lightbulbs:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073ZBYXKQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Z-Wave Deadbolt:
https://www.amazon.com/Kwikset-SmartCode-Electronic-SmartThings-featuring/dp/B004F1B24I/ref=sr_1_12?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1540990126&sr=1-12&keywords=z-wave+lock

Z-Wave Garage Door Opener:
https://www.amazon.com/GoControl-Linear-GD00Z-4-Z-Wave-Controller/dp/B00M75TEIU/ref=sr_1_4?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1540990160&sr=1-4&keywords=z-wave+garage+door+opener

Sonos One Speakers (Great music, and talking through SmartThings):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074XN1LH3/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Amazon Echo Show (for Voice Control...an Echo Dot will work just fine too):
https://www.amazon.com/All-new-Echo-Show-2nd-Gen/dp/B077SXWSRP/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1540990254&sr=1-1&keywords=echo+show

That's about all I can think of at the moment.

If you are going to do this, do it in stages. Z-Wave and ZigBee are mesh networks...meaning that the reliability of the network gets much better the more devices you have. Also, with these mesh networks:

• Battery operated devices DO NOT reinforce the mesh
  
• The only devices that reinforce the mesh are devices that are always powered from the mains
  
  I see so many people complaining about how the Z-Wave or ZigBee devices don't work, when they are relying on too many battery operated devices.
  
  For Z-Wave devices, choose Z-Wave Plus over Z-Wave...it's the newest standard, and has much better range.
  
  In the US, Z-Wave operates in the 900 MHz spectrum and ZigBee in the 2.4 GHz spectrum. Personally, I "prefer" Z-Wave devices as there is a lot of "junk" in the 2.4 GHz spectrum right now. However, the ZigBee devices are operating reliably as I have a strong mesh setup (with non-battery operated devices).
  
  Two great application for the Leak Sensors:
  
  
• Near your hot water heater (when they go, they always leak)
  
• Under your A/C drip pan (if you have central air)
  
  Great applications for door open/close sensors:
  
  
• Turn closet lights on/off when the door opens or closes
  
• Turn on entry and hallway lights when an entry door opens, but only when it's dark (30 minutes before sunset or after sunrise)...turn off 1 minute later
  
• Notify me when my gun safe is opened
  
  Great Application for Motion Sensors
  
  
• Turn on outside ceiling fans (but only if the temp is above 72 degrees)
  
• Turn on lamps while motion is active when it's dark
  
  The motion sensors I linked above are the new ones...the magnetically mount. What's cool is that the magnet is in the sensor, and it's strong enough to attach the sensor to a dry wall screw (no need to mount the adapter bracket).

I personally have used both the Leviton smart plug, but have come to actually like the Inovelli one as you can control both sides = more Christmas lights :)

As for outdoor, GE seems to be the only one out there now, but supposedly per Inovelli's Facebook page, they are coming out with one soon.

Here's the link to both the Leviton one I've used as well as the Inovelli one (indoor):

Leviton - https://www.amazon.com/Leviton-Decora-Appliance-Module-Z-Wave/dp/B00LEWQYC6

Inovelli - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K6J1Y1I

Outdoor:
GE - https://www.amazon.com/GE-Wireless-Lighting-Control-Outdoor/dp/B0013V8K3O

Inovelli - https://www.facebook.com/inovelliUSA/photos/a.1899373336993353.1073741829.1702973266633362/1899528456977841/?type=3&theater

As for setting the sunset/sunrise -- that can be done via the Smart Lights SmartApp within the ST app (Marketplace > SmartApps > SmartThings Recommends > Smart Lights)

Lastly, as for the space heater -- I would advise against that as if the plug doesn't turn off or it tips over, it could cause a fire :/ -- but if you really want to, just check the Maximum Rating on various smart plugs and make sure your space heater does not exceed it.

This would be your best bet, but you do have to know/learn how to get the code up and running on both the Arduino and SmartThings IDE, so maybe a bit intense for some. Plus they stopped selling it a while ago... I'm still mad I didn't buy more.

I've made a few customish sensors (i.e.: doorbell) with these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XUXYSWU - they're relatively cheap, and it's super easy to add external sensors to them. You're stuck with the motion sensors, but I can always find a use for those. But on the contact sensors, just snip the hall sensor out to disable the contact feature, then connect your wired sensor to the provided terminals. Thats it, but If you're feeling ambitious you can copy the device handler in the IDE and edit it to represent what you're actually sensing. May find this handy if you're combining sensors or something similar (i.e. need to know all 1st floor windows are closed, not listed individually).

All that said, I would just stick to straight wireless wherever possible, because the mesh network is strengthened with each device you have scattered around the house. But if you can find an Arduino shield, that would be wayyy cheaper since you could use one device to integrate all pre-wired sensors.

For mine we bought a house that had one installed but it had one of those doorbell style buttons on the wall using a simple 2 wire coniguration so I added this and it has worked perfectly. My point being if you intend to have a wall button then you could do something simple like this and get any brand that you like giving you more options.

Hi Mike! There used to be a 3rd-party device handler for Chamberlain MyQ openers, but it seems that it has been discontinued: https://community.smartthings.com/t/discontinuation-of-myq-connect-community-smartapp/47183

Another option is to use the GoControl unit that connects to your existing garage door opener: https://smile.amazon.com/GoControl-Linear-GD00Z-4-Z-Wave-Controller/dp/B00M75TEIU. It has native integration with ST as well as options for third party device handlers that extend the functionality. The price on Amazon is a bit high right now, but I've seen it around $65 in the past. If you're not in any hurry, use camelcamelcamel.com to track the Amazon price and notify you when it decreases or hits a target price you configure.

I can't help much with the camera portion of your question, but I'm interested to see what others have to say as well. This is something I'm still deciding on also.

1. As long as it says "zwave enabled" or something of that nature it will connect to smartthings. All of the companies you listed above I have at least one of in my house all connected to my hub. Just look for the zwave logo.
   
   
2. Everything you've listed can be placed with my go-to switch:
   https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-Control-Switch-Z-Wave/dp/B0035YRCR2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481592836&sr=8-1&keywords=ge+zwave
   they're pretty inexpesive and reliable. There are cheaper, but I've had issues with some of them so I've decided to just go with these when I change out switches.
   
   If you have 3-way switches (though you didn't list any) you need the companion switch and some rewiring of the boxes. If you're handy it's not too bad. If you don't know the difference between the white wire and black wire, I'd spend some time on youtube before get too far into pulling the boxes apart.
   
   
   Another important thing to mention on the wiring front: If you have an older house, you need to make sure that you have a neutral wire in all the boxes that you want to put a smart switch in. Newer houses will have them because the electrical code was updated to require them - that wasn't in place (or followed) until 20-25 years ago.

Good to know. It's kinda a complicated scheme, but here's what you could do with a RGBW light.

First - run it hot like I suggested, with a smart bulb and a smart switch. The switch is bypassed, so only gets power but doesn't electrically control anything. The bulb could be Osram or LiFX - both work in one form or another with ST. The switch I would just do a smart GE switch (like this one: https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-Control-Switch-12722/dp/B0035YRCR2), since you're only interested in being able to turn the light on/off.

I would then make a virtual switch (https://community.smartthings.com/t/faq-creating-a-virtual-device/11282) named something like "movie time."

That movie time switch will be a sort of on/off for your scenes...When movie time is turned on, your light switch (when turned on), will make your RGBW bulb do a mood lighting scene. When movie time is off, your light switch (when turned on), will turn that light to 80% white. When turned off in either case, the light will turn off.

What about the siren scenario? That would be a separate CoRE piston linked between the bulb and your smoke alarm so that when they go off, the bulb does what you want it to no matter what the scene.

Make sense? It's all possible, what you want, it may just not be as mutable beyond what you're asking for - it would be more difficult using the pieces I mentioned to also have dimming, but maybe I'm overlooking an obvious option...

When you come up with a plan, and run into trouble, post back up. This all sounds simple to more seasoned users but I can understand it going completely over a new users head.

So what I was thinking of was like this switch, but maybe I was having a bit of a brain fart and confusing parts... This one is specifically designed for a multi speed ceiling fan type device. I had thought that there was a concern about wattages on a bathroom exhaust type fan too, but looking at this switch it specifically lists fans as compatible (at least as long as they are under 600w).

Edit: ah ha! The warning is to not use a standard dimmer switch to control fan speed... use a specific fan rated dimmer... or like the first link above.

https://www.amazon.com/GOCONTROL-WNK01-21KIT-Essential-Z-Wave-Security/dp/B00XUXYSWU?ie=UTF8&ref_=cm_cr_arp_d_pdt_img_sims

This is by far the best deal that's been going on for a long time now, so more like standard price (though it goes up to $42 sometimes.)

Not ST brand but compatible and well reviewed. Great price for all three sensors (2 open close and 1 motion). $38 right now.

This is a pretty amazing deal when compared to amazon prices.

SmartThings Hub, $99

SmartThings Motion Sensor, $32

2x Sylvania Dimmable Bulbs, $16 each

Total value is $163. Some things to consider is that the bulbs are dimmable only. They are not color temperature adjustable. The motion sensor is also finicky, from what I've read

I have z-wave GE wall switches that work fine. You can usually find something in the amazon reviews that will indicate what success (or lack of it) other people have had. Lurking this sub is another good way to see what works for others.

As sauky said, check the smartthings list on the st website

The GE switches and dimmers were fussy getting them "paired" with the hub. But I have probably five different brands of stuff and none of it was immune to pairing troubles. I would just make sure whatever you get has favorable reviews.

For your fan, take a look at this. It allows you to control the speed of the fan without having to click the chain. Leave the fan on high and let the switch work its magic. I love the one I have in my living room.

I use these plugin modules from monoprice.com for the inside lights. There is one with dimmer too if you want to dim your bulbs.

For outdoor, I use this GE outlet. And after searching for that link, I see there is a Jasco branded outlet that looks identical to the GE, but about $5 cheaper. Pretty sure its just the GE rebranded.

I use Visonic door/window sensors that also show temp/humidity. Currently $19.99 on Amazon, but I have seen these as low as $15.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XDJ3KYC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_aEyVDb4J26GZT
Integrate this with the Virtual Thermostat Manager SmartApp and Device handler.
https://github.com/eliotstocker/SmartThings-VirtualThermostat-WithDTH
The Virtual Thermostat will get its temp reading from the Visonic sensor and turn off/on any smart plug, works great.

While I'm certainly envious of your handiwork with an Arduino and a soldering iron, I have two of these z-wave switches, and it's a lot simpler. Smartthings treats it like a dimmer out of the box, but adding this device type makes it perfectly seamless.

GE Z-Wave Plus smart switch: https://www.amazon.com/GE-Repeater-Required-Works-SmartThings-14291/dp/B01M1AHC3R

I have over 45 of these in my house and they are the most reliable smart devices that I own. They also make these as dimmers and fan controllers.

We recently installed these GE switches and have so far liked them a lot. They don't look dramatically different from traditional switches, and you can then use whatever bulb you need in the actual outlet.

Just as a note, we did have issues with the newer SmartThings app automating the lights coming on at night and going off in the morning, but it seemed to be an issue with the app- we used the classic app and it's worked perfectly ever since.

Had these outside for 4 years works great

Ecolink Z-Wave PIR Motion Detector, Pet Immune (PIRZWAVE2-ECO) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FB1TBKS/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_tai_mm8YBbC8X7QFY

>one or two pieces get out of sync. It's easily fixed but annoys my wife.

What's the easy fix?

Also I recommend these switches from GE. You can choose the different types of styles right there on the Amazon page.

If you are going to use a SmartThings Hub you could use a Z-Wave bulb like this:

SYLVANIA SMART+ A19 Full Color + Tunable White LED Bulb, 60W Equivalent, Works with Amazon Alexa and SmartThings, 73693 (Formerly LIGHTIFY) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0197840KQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_TdSNzbFQ85TS5

But it would require you have the hub, and an Ethernet connection.

Something like this would work without a hub (and avoid wifi issues mentioned above):

LE Dimmable A19 E26 LED Light Bulb 6W RGB 16 Colors Remote Controller Included https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007V1VOI8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_NjSNzbZ8ZABDN

Did you know Amazon will donate a portion of every purchase if you shop by going to smile.amazon.com instead? Over $50,000,000 has been raised for charity - all you need to do is change the URL!

Here are your smile-ified links:

https://smile.amazon.com/Fibaro-Micro-Controller-Z-wave-Strips/dp/B00P1N68FW/ref=sr_1_1

---

Never forget to smile again | ^^i'm ^^a ^^friendly bot

I have had good luck with these ecolink sensors https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FB1TBKS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1473343752&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=ecolink+motion+sensor

The biggest issue that I kept running into while trying to think this through - how do I keep power going to the hue or cree bulbs if the switch is in off position? The only workaround was to install a zwave on/off switch that would first trigger to ON and then enable the smart bulb. But then I realized that would double the cost of the setup. Another option was to use a z-wave inline switch that continuously provides power to the bulbs and also lets you toggle the switch. But then I would be tripling the cost. So finally I decided that I would go with just a set of zwave switches with dimmable LED bulbs.

If you want dimming capability - GE has zwave switches specifically marked as 'Dimmers'. They have several models. Fan Control, Dimmers, 3-way, 3-way add-on and also a simple ON/OFF switch.

https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-Control-Switch-Z-Wave/dp/B0035YRCR2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480974778&sr=8-2&keywords=GE+z-wave+switch

First Alert Z-Wave Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector

Sends me a text message if they go off when I am not home - I have 3 and they work good.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KMHXFAI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I control my lights the same way you want to, and I use these they work great

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0035YRCR2/ref=sr_ph_1?qid=1449077425&sr=sr-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165&keywords=z+wave+switch

Any zwave switch should be able to toggle power. They are relatively easy to wire in. Just watch a few YouTube videos (TURN THE BREAKER OFF FIRST).


I wanted to have a toggle switch that matched the other toggles in the house (not the flat 'paddles'). These are a little large but should find in a double box like that.

https://www.amazon.com/GE-Wireless-Lighting-Control-12727/dp/B00PYMGOHM

I have the one below and used it for holiday lights last year. No issues what so ever.
https://smile.amazon.com/GE-Appliance-Weather-Resistant-SmartThings-14284/dp/B06W9NWFM3

I also have about 12-15 of the hard wired switches in my house and they all work great.

I have the GoControl Z-Wave Controller and it works great with Smartthings.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XUXYSWU

This also works great, and you get 2 sensors and a motion sensor for the same price

Replacing the light switch with a smart home switch (e.g. GE Enbrighten ). Even if you don’t own the home, certainly you can “replace” a switch?

I wired up the cheap LED strip for now with an RGB controller.
going to give this ( https://www.amazon.com/Fibaro-Micro-Controller-Z-wave-Strips/dp/B00P1N68FW ) controller a try. from what i can tell, it plugs right in and will allow smart capabilities.

OKay, so for each 3-way, I'd need something like one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PYMGOHM/ref=asc_df_B006LQFHN25032304/

and one of these?:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PYMGYY0/

(And the hub of course)

I'm not fully following what you are asking for.

You want a smart switch with no dimming capability.

But are you saying you want it to only control one light, or two?

Is this a for a three way switch?

If I have put it together properly, you are just looking for a regular ordinary on/off single pole light switch with no dimming capability?

like this?: switch

Personally, I've not had good luck with GE devices. I have an outdoor switch (this one: https://www.amazon.com/GE-Wireless-Lighting-Control-Required/dp/B0013V8K3O ), two wall switches, and one wall dimmer. The outdoor switch (the only one I still have installed) goes offline about once or twice a month for seemingly no reason even though it has direct line of sight to the hub (with the only obstruction being a glass window).

Now, that's me. It could just be my home layout. But I've had much better luck with Homeseer products (WS-100 and WD-100), though I don't know if they make an outdoor appliance switch, like the one you linked.

I just bought one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Fibaro-Micro-Controller-Z-wave-Strips/dp/B00P1N68FW

Really pleased with it so far.

I have had this one for a fee months now and it works with SmatThings, but not Alexa for now. It works really well and can hookup to just about any garage door opener.

GoControl/Linear GD00Z-4 Z-Wave Garage Door Opener Remote Controller, Small, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M75TEIU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_b0G7ybRFZ6B0X

I have this

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FB1TBKS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I set it to less sensitive but it occasionally picks up a cat. I'm sure at a higher sensitivity it will more consistently see cats.

I use the GE lighting module for this purpose: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013V58HU/

It's $35 US (in the US), and it has a Zwave controlled outlet plus a non controlled outlet on it. For an extra 5, there is a Dimmable version as well. It can handle up to 600 watts. I've got two of them in my house now, and they've worked flawlessly for quite a while.

For those interested in the same switch, but is also a dimmer.... Amazon has them at an all-time-low of $30.09. (Normally $44.00)

https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-Required-SmartThings-14294/dp/B01MUCZA1C/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1542909353&sr=8-3&keywords=ge+zwave+dimmer

GE Outdoor Smart Plug

After buying some 'smart' bulbs early on in my home automation project, I've decided the batter way to go is smart SWITCHES. I'm using several flavors of these: https://www.amazon.com/GE12722-Z-Wave-Wireless-Lighting-Control/dp/B0035YRCR2

I used that
GE Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Smart Dimmer Switch, Full Dimming, in-Wall, Incl. White and Lt. Almond Paddles, Repeater/Range Extender, Zwave Hub Required, Works with SmartThings, Wink, Alexa, 14294 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MUCZA1C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hbVBCbDJXQR0C

Oh I didn't think of putting it in the oven!

This one would easily pick up 10-20 degree temp change mounted under a cabinet nearby, for instance.

Not sure if they'll do exactly what you want
Sylvania Smart Home 73743... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0196M620Y?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

You'll want just a scene controller.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0196M620Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_GLtSAb8MTNX3E

Otherwise you'll be controlling the fan which might burn the motor.

I like the GE switches. Currently running 5 though out the house. You can use the GE switch and purchase a add on switch. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00RKJS8MQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493836027&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=ge+add+on+switch&dpPl=1&dpID=41glGOvc3NL&ref=plSrch

I use the model that you’re talking about (GoControl/Linear GD00Z-4 Z-Wave Garage Door Opener Remote Controller, Small, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M75TEIU/) and it works great, and a shout-out to their support team for owning up to a known defect in the first version that I got where it would beep and do everything as expected, but not actually open the garage. So, technically, I’d say 5 stars, though I’d have to knock it down to 4 stars only for the trouble of replacing the lemon unit with a working one.

Every now and then, the replacement unit does exhibit this problem of beeping and not doing anything when I ask it to, but that’s so few and far between, and works if I go after it for a second time, that I’d still recommend this to you.

the multisensors are on sale now and do temperature. I just installed one in my network closet to alert me when it gets too hot.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0118RQW3W/

I have a few of these and they have worked well https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0035YRCR2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm not 100% sure what you're asking, but I use these GE Z-Wave light switches in my house and they work flawlessly. They are 'rocker' style so it can't be 'off' when it's 'on' if you know what I mean.

https://www.amazon.ca/GE-45609WB-Wireless-Lighting-Control/dp/B0035YRCR2

What hub do you have?

One of these:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010NZV0GE/ref=asc_df_B010NZV0GE5072239

I'm mostly sure those things are Ethernet only. But the product description is awful, so it may be wifi capable.

My first SmartThing connected device. Using the echo with the ST hub and one of these :) ... GoControl Z-Wave Isolated Contact Fixture Module - FS20Z-1 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ER6MH22/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_CLABybFRVVJBV

I figured another use for the dry contact - for my gas fireplace. BTW...there are other z-wave contacts available on amazon: http://www.amazon.com/GoControl-Z-Wave-Isolated-Contact-Fixture/dp/B00ER6MH22/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453504530&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=Remotec+Z-Wave+Dry+Contact

I use the Sylvania Zigbee switch, but it doesn't fit in a deco, but rather on top of.

I bought this off Amazon and haven't had any problems.
https://smile.amazon.com/GoControl-Linear-GD00Z-4-Z-Wave-Controller/dp/B00M75TEIU

Thanks everyone for the suggestions I ended up getting this and its currently installed and reading 1F. I set up a piston in webcore to send me a notification if the temp gets above freezing but of course didn't think to check it till after it was installed in the freezer.

If it just dies suddenly I'll be sure to let everyone know so they can avoid it in the future.

I've been using this one for over a year without any issues - GoControl/Linear GD00Z-4 Z-Wave Garage Door Opener Remote Controller, Small, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M75TEIU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3JsHAbS1DN09R

I think he may be referring to this one... Fibaro RGBW Controller

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P1N68FW/

Check this guy out.
https://www.amazon.com/Fibaro-Micro-Controller-Z-wave-Strips/dp/B00P1N68FW

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PYMGOHM/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468330935&sr=sr-1&keywords=ge+zwave

This is the switch I use. They also have paddle switches and dimmers.

OMG I've thought about the exact same thing! How does it not exist yet?? This is a GE/Jasco device I found earlier, but have't read too much into it - https://www.amazon.com/GE-12730-Z-Wave-Smart-Control/dp/B00PYMGVVQ

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00RKJS8MQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480478370&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=ge+zwave+add+on+switch&dpPl=1&dpID=41uBlu46cUL&ref=plSrch

Is the standard multi-purpose sensor a sufficient sensor for this purpose? Thanks!

EDIT: Seems it is! I'll try it out.

Here you go

Samsung SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0118RQW3W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Y52ZAbYC0ET4D

I'm using a SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor.

zwave

zigbee

which one do you have? I heard the old did but the 2018 does not. This is the 2018 - https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-SmartThings-Outlet-GP-U999SJVLDAA-Smart/dp/B07F96JB63/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=samsung+smartthings+plug&qid=1565648213&s=gateway&sr=8-8

>smartthings zigbee outlets

This one? https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-SmartThings-Outlet-GP-U999SJVLDAA-Smart/dp/B07F96JB63

I just installed 2 of these First Alert Z-Wave smoke and carbon monoxide combo models that are reporting battery level and alarm status.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KMHXFAI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I was having the same issue. My zWave devices were all battery powered, same with the Zigbee, so they wouldn't work as repeaters. I purchased a couple zWave repeaters and a couple of the ST Zigbee plugs, and put them in my weak areas, rebuilt the networks and it solved my issues.

After getting frustrated with the disconnects when using the ST sensors, I tried the Visonic MCT-340 E Wireless Door Window Temperature Sensor 2.4ghz ZigBee, which still disconnects but less often, so far, than the ST sensors, at half the price.

No worries. I have this First Alert smoke and CO detector. It's been working well, and does report the battery status, accurately in my experience.

https://www.amazon.com/First-Alert-Z-Wave-Detector-Monoxide/dp/B00KMHXFAI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1486137045&sr=8-1&keywords=z+wave+smoke+co

I've had one of these for about 8 months now, and its been highly dependable. I use it literally 15+ times a day to turn on lights in my kitchen. Then it monitors my kitchen while I'm away, for added security. It's still reporting 100% battery (no idea how accurate that is). You can also adjust sensitivity to ignore animals, but I can't speak on that feature due to lack of pets. I also wanted a plugin motion detector, but this seems like it will go a year+ on one battery.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FB1TBKS

you'll want to use a dry-contact relay to control that valve.
You can use the one you linked, but you will also need a 12v power supply. Here is a Z-Wave one, no programming required. It provides a simple on-off switch.

https://www.amazon.com/GoControl-Z-Wave-Isolated-Contact-Fixture/dp/B00ER6MH22/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&dpID=31WTIqBdTIL&dpPl=1&keywords=Zwave%20relay&pi=SY200_QL40&qid=1463230543&ref=plSrch&ref_=mp_s_a_1_2&sr=8-2

Not sure on the humidity/water sensor

Yeah, this is possible. Just buy a z-wave plug (I use this one) and plug your AC into it. Turn your AC on. Then, whenever you turn the plug on via SmartThings, the AC turns on. If you turn the plug off, it cuts the AC's power, and the AC is off.

Really simple way to turn a dumb AC into a smart-ish AC.

I have all my outdoor Christmas lights plugged into this: https://www.amazon.com/GE-Weather-Resistant-Required-Works-SmartThings-14284/dp/B06W9NWFM3

Its about 20 strings of lights total, mostly LED. No problems; I have a simple rule setup with WebCore to turn the lights on at Sunset and off at midnight.

Sorry, I should clarify. I don't have smart switches, I have dumb ones. They cut off power to the lights if I need them off in a case like this, and when you turn the power back on, Hue bulbs default to on.
I believe this is a setting option with LIFX.

I also have these with dumb bulbs and they are load sensing, so if I turn it off and then on again, it will provide power to the bulb, regardless of the commands it is/isn't receiving from my hub.

Hope this helps!