INSTEON out of business. What to do?

[@GlennFromHB]

I would look into Home Assistant. It currently has a Insteon integration, and it is also capable of being used without the cloud and integrates to a tremendous number of other smart home devices, hubs and platforms. This should enable you to continue using Insteon and migrate to many other options, and they should integrate together.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks. Looking into it.

[@junkerzn7312]

I use Home Assistant too, run off of a raspberry pi 4. I recommend it too. It requires a certain degree of computer literacy but it is the best open-source solution available today and the integration is incredible once the hard work is done. I have a handful of Amazon fire tablets running WallPanel plastered around the house, plus I can run the Home Assistant app on my ipad and iphone. Controls, alarms, stills, even live video feeds from the security system. Notifications. It's really really cool stuff. Everything is tied together with wifi. And this presents us with the main reason why companies with proprietary technologies like Insteon are virtually guaranteed to fail. The instant a company loses control over the technology that manages the home, it just becomes another one of literally hundreds of end-of-chain device makers and it becomes very, very hard to distinguish oneself from the competition. Particularly when there are now power-line communication standards, not to mention wifi, that is capable of gluing everything together. -Matt

[@SpartanBrass]

Yes I’m still using all my Insteon devices through home assistant

[@handydadtv]

Does HASS interface with the Insteon hub or PLM?

[@fastbobby504]

@@SpartanBrass Question, I was using the Insteon hub and only had one dimmer for my home theater, which was connected to my Harmony Hub. When I started a movie, it would dramatically slowly dim the room and vice-versa when credits were playing. This is why I chose Insteon as others I tried would dim too quickly and I had no control. So, I want to find another product or hub that works with my Insteon dimmer that can do the same thing. I have other dimmers in my home that are wifi and are just fine for my dining room, etc. By the way, I'd also consider replacing the Insteon dimmer with another brand if it would allow control over the dimmer speed. Any thoughts on a way to get that functionality back?

[@pinnacleservices6671]

Thank you for this video. This is just another justification (my opinion) to not automate anything in my home. I appreciate your videos.

[@handydadtv]

Well that wasn’t my intention. But okay. Avoiding a smart home is like avoiding a smart phone.

[@BillLaBrie]

@@handydadtv The mark of a wise and determined person?

[@stevekopcial129]

Seems so antiquated to reach up and turn the switch off on your desk light, I would just die...

[@handydadtv]

@Steve Like changing a TV channel by turning a dial.

[@kevinrush4411]

To each their own, but automation is no problem for me. No down side.

[@funksf]

I've had an Insteon set up in my current home and our previous one (spanning some 15 years), but have used an ISY-994 for years instead of the Insteon hub. I control the switches with universal device's own app. Hope UD continues to stay in business

[@handydadtv]

I’m surprised they still are. Plan your escape.

[@heinzschlack7586]

Thank you for filling in and rounding out the Insteon story. I too started my addiction with X10 and moved up to Insteon a couple of years ago .... primarily driven by Christmas lighting. Since the "death" of Insteon, I've been playing with Home Assistant. As an old programmer, learning HA has been fun but it's too complicated for most folks. I have been intrigued by Universal Devices new Polisy device ... a little pricy but might be good glue to hold everything together. Thanks again.

[@salvadorepozzi8646]

My experience mirrors yours exactly... I never purchased the Insteon hub because of the lousy reviews. I went with ISY out of the gate and have been satisfied

[@handydadtv]

I’m reviewing the ISY in an upcoming video. Works well but requires a PLM, which is hard to come by. Thankfully, I have one.

[@davebroere9078]

Same experience as Salvadore Pozzi. Have over 100 INSTEON devices running on an ISY. I'm thinking the answer might be to transition to Z wave over time. If I added the Z wave radio add-in to my ISY controller... Need to talk more with Universal Devices. Still leaves the problem of that 8-button switch. No one seems to make a Z wave 8-button switch pad.

[@handydadtv]

Zooz makes a 5-button Z-Wave scene controller that I’m going to be testing. It’s just a switch, not a dimmer like Insteon.

[@TomsDIYShop]

Heinz, I'm also looking at Polisy but am a bit intimidated by the Polyglot python programming. I'm sure there's a ton of info, videos, and help to be had, just not sure about the learning curve.

[@jammazon]

I was an X10 user in the 90s and have had Insteon of some variety for the last 10+ years. My last 3 homes (sorry to whoever bought them) had 50+ Insteon switches, sensors, remotes etc etc and are now dead. My current home has 45 insteon switches and 10 or so plug in modules. At this time I am making due with Home Assistant on a RPI (GREAT software by the way) to control my lights etc. I think my next step is going to be something based on either Zigbee or Matter (vaporware right now?), but we shall see. Either way I am NOT screwed, just eyeing the future. Love this video, thanks for posting.

[@handydadtv]

How does HASS communicate with Insteon?

[@jammazon]

@@handydadtv so it still needs the PLM or the hub for full functionality, but for the moment that’s fine. I blocked outbound access from my firewall as it has a fixed address dhcp address so I’m not too worried about it ‘phoning home’ if the servers or a savvy hacker come back online one day. The scenes and automation all still work and I have voice control working with google home. So, for now I’m good but definitely planning what to replace them with.

[@bergg9987]

I have Insteon in my house. I am using an ISY as my hub. When Insteon became more difficult to acquire where I live I added the z-wave module to the ISY and started using z-wave devices. I also have a polyglot server connected to the ISY which lets it work with a wide range of other technologies.

[@handydadtv]

That means you have a very rare and expensive component: an Insteon PLM.

[@bergg9987]

@@handydadtv I do. I bought it at the same time I bought the ISY several years ago. At that time I was focused on an all Insteon home automation.

[@WaynesWorldGarage]

I did the same thing. My ISY doesn't need access to Alexis to work....

[@sergiomasciotra8646]

Same here using ISY with Z-Wave all controlled through Home Assistant using Node-Red

[@TT-nd8sy]

Found your video while researching something. I don't have a big investment in Insteon devices, but I'm glad you let me know that they're dead. It saved me some trouble. Besides open standards, there's a lot to be said for not using services for things that shouldn't be services, like synchronizing two thermostats and turning on and off things in the same house. The voice recognition part has better case for involving cloud services. I half expect Leviton or a company like it will wind up with their tech. A inherited a bunch of old X10 stuff from a friend of mine. I don't know if you've ever seen the inside of an X10 appliance module but it has a hand drawn PCB. It's funny that they're still going while Insteon is dead.

[@handydadtv]

A few months later, Insteon was resurrected. Watch this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nou7l618mp6qeq8

[@philmontalbano4251]

I have a huge investment in Insteon. I ended up purchasing a HomeSeer Probdevive and the Insteon Plugging. Works great and gives me the ability to integrate wireless, x-wave, zigbee, etc. in fact I already have some x-wave devices controlling Insteon devices. No requirement for cloud services.

[@handydadtv]

Agree, HomeSeer is a great solution.

[@rosshowell]

Appreciate the tip - only hub available right now is 899.00 model - a lot of people in need, but looks ver good

[@handydadtv]

The good thing about HomeSeer is you can set it up on an old Windows laptop or desktop with a 30-day free trial. Then migrate to a HomeTroller when they are back in stock.

[@MusicVidsOnly]

This was really helpful. The Insteon thing blindsided us for sure. One day “Alexa, turn off lights” didn’t work and I tried for two days to reset the Insteon password to connect. I even got mad at my husband for never remembering which email/password he uses, thinking somehow he screwed up the details. Now I know what actually happened. All-in-all these are first-world problems. We will solve them either way, even if it’s irritating. I hope those who worked at Insteon got some extra boost before the doors were forced shut.

[@handydadtv]

I’ve only been in touch with one former employee and I don’t think they got anything.

[@poyed88]

Thank you for the information. I had no idea Insteon went out of business until I found your video. I have a few modules in the house. I never liked it for the start. They were unreliable and lose wifi connection often and only works with incandescent bulbs. In the five years I've owned them, I have had to replace three hubs. Nice of Insteon to send replacement for free. Today I would never own any device that requires a hub.

[@handydadtv]

Good thing you didn’t have many. Some people invested thousands in Insteon products.

[@coralreefer23]

Lose wifi connection? Lol Their stuff was always reliable for me. That's coming from someone that works with any high end home automation for a living. As far as the hub goes, there is a cheap repair for them. Just replace one resistor and never have a problem again.

[@kevinrush4411]

The company still exists and is selling products. I don't know how you installed Insteon so it could be that unreliable. The whole magic, is that it is duel mesh and fast.

[@LouisKleiman]

I use Home Assistant with my Insteon devices and was unaware of the problem until someone called me to help them because their Insteon devices were down. I will be looking forward to your new platform investigations. I decided to try out Z-Wave first.

[@handydadtv]

How does you HASS communicate with Insteon? Hub? PLM?

[@misteraon]

Home Assistant all the way. It’s open source. I run mine inside a docker container on a small Linux server in my network closet. You can also run it on a raspberry pi or I’ve heard of people running it on certain NAS devices.

[@handydadtv]

I played with it in the past on a spare Linux machine. Would probably use my Synology NAS this time.

[@donschenck2466]

Hubitat is what I went with and I'm VERY glad.

[@handydadtv]

How do you control Insteon scenes/groups with Hubitat?

[@image969]

Home Assistant took care of all of this. Its amazing, and has its own Insteon tab now when you install.

[@handydadtv]

It’s still evolving, but coming along nicely.

[@larrye6778]

My hub quit working about a month ago so I switched over to switches called kasa. ithey are made by tp link. no hub needed. works great with app and switches are a third of the price of insteon. I always wondered why the insteon switches never came down in price and never became wifi enabled without hub, now this explains it. thank you for the news.

[@handydadtv]

There is no such thing as a hub-less smart home. Your hub just happens to be in the cloud. But I’ve heard good thing about Kasa so it’s a good choice.

[@brandtdaniels]

Insteon was initially designed to be linked and controlled locally. They still work that way. I ran Indigo on a Mac for years with no cloud to control my Insteon devices with no issue. The Hub is not really necessary and is in fact pretty weak as far as capabilities. The most popular ways to add software control to Insteon these days is Universal Devices ISY, Home Assistant, Home Seer, or Indigo. All these offerings are way more powerful than the Hub ever was. Keep an eye out for the Matter protocol which is officially supported by companies such as Apple.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks 👍🏻

[@philm7732]

If I could use Indigo to control my Z wave home, I would. I use Smartthings, and it works okay, but I miss fully local control that I had with Indigo.

[@Mixiter55]

1st. DO NOT DEFAULT YOUR HUB. 2. Great video. I have about 15 insteon devices around my home. I have installed home assistant on a NAS I use with the Insteon plugin. Took about 10min and pressing the test button on some of the water sensors. Everything migrated perfectly. Better now I can have the 8 button controller turn on the TV or set the ecobee thermostats to away.

[@handydadtv]

I am testing different hubs. HASS is on the list.

[@paulmorrow8372]

I had Insteon several houses ago. I swapped over to Lutron RadioRA2 and it is miles better. There is a pretty steep learning curve, but it is miles better in every technical aspect.

[@handydadtv]

Did you install it yourself? I used to think Insteon was expensive until I looked into Lutron. 😳

[@paulmorrow8372]

@@handydadtv yes, I did the install myself. You have to get “certified” by taking their free online classes in order to access the software. It is about $100 per switch.

[@TheWilliegoat]

Thanks for the informative video. Like you, I started with X-10(Radio Shack Plug'n Power) decades ago and moved to Insteon/ISY for reliability, compatibility and versatility. I now have a complex setup which integrates Ring, Echo(Alexa), Insteon and a few other devices. I will be watching closely to see what happens next.

[@handydadtv]

If you’re an ISY user, you didn’t even notice when they shut off their servers, right? I am playing with the ISY right now.

[@TheWilliegoat]

@@handydadtv That is correct, everything is still working as it was. The only thing that relies on the cloud is the Alexa/ISY integration. But if the PLM fails, we are screwed.

[@handydadtv]

PLMs are prone to failure, from what I’ve learned on Reddit, but you can repair them yourself by replacing the capacitors, and there are kits that provide everything you need except a soldering iron.

[@rvbernier]

Thanks for the video ! I also used X10 modules years ago. I even developed a radio remote control prior to the one offered by X10 (my radio control device communicated with a single board computer that generated the x10 codes on the electrical network). A few years ago I looked for a device that would offer feedback and be compatible with x10 modules and found Insteon. Over a 3 year period I had to change the hub 3 times. So when the hub stopped functioning, I thought that the same problem occured. Your video informed me otherwise. I looked for a hub replacement and found 2, but it needs a PLM to work. I did not find any PLM available on eBay or elsewhere, so I decided to replace my Insteon modules. So far I used non-hub switches and I'm waiting for a better solution.

[@handydadtv]

PLMs are in very short supply and fetching high prices when they become available.

[@wxdr1]

I left Insteon years ago. I decided to do Sonoff devices. Initially they only worked on the cloud. However, they have added LAN control. Very simple devices, and can be flashed with other firmware. So my devices are wifi, LAN controlled. Can work with various home automation software like echo, smarthings, google home, etc.

[@handydadtv]

Which local firmware did you choose?

[@wxdr1]

@@handydadtv I’m just using the sonoff firmware.

[@sdophoto1405]

Been considering Hoobs to be able to use my products. In a condo and we have basically lights and leak sensors.

[@justice4consumers921]

I just picked up a Hoobs hub and will start porting over all my Insteon Switches, LampLink dimmers, 2450 I/O Link-Water Main shut-off solenoid valve, leak detectors and garage door openers so they can be used with Apple’s HomeKit.

[@handydadtv]

Hoobs is purely HomeKit? We’re an Alexa family.

[@sdophoto1405]

@@handydadtv I don't think so. From what I have researched it works with Alexa. Hoobs uses plugins to work. That is how it works with Insteon and I believe also Alexa. We are an Alexa household too as we have Sonos with Alexa. The rest of everything we have is Apple but I don't want to have to buy another speaker

[@joshwl2003]

This is why I have a requirement for all smart devices to work with home kit. I guess apple could kill that off at some point but it seems unlikely.

[@handydadtv]

We’ve always been an Alexa family. Never really tried HomeKit.

[@lv_woodturner3899]

You took me back in time. I also have many X10 modules and the clock timer. Worked well for a long time. I still use an X10 motion sensor on an external floodlight. I do not look forward to the day when this motion sensor dies. Dave.

[@handydadtv]

If you haven’t heard, Insteon was resurrected. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nou7l618mp6qeq8

[@jasonanderson951]

Thank you for another informative video Chris. Over the years I have been gradually converting my home to be more automated. I first started with the Nest system. I have two Nest cams, Nest thermostat, Nest smoke alarm which have worked great throughout the years. I also have installed Kasa devices in my home. Kasa smart lighting, smart plugs, and smart switches which have also been working well over the years. The smart switches are a little finicky sometimes but it’s usually a user connective issue. And thirdly I have a Wyze cam which has been useful and minimal issues. I have integrated the Nest system and the Kasa system with Google home. Everything seems to be working well and we love it. My next project will probably be automated electrical blinds. There a little pricey so it’s low on my priority list.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks for sharing your setup. I don’t know why, by WiFi is troublesome for me. We often have 3 bars of WiFi signal on our phones or computers, and can’t get to the internet. We reboot devices and ultimately the router to resolve. I also have 3 WiFi bulbs in outdoor fixtures on my house, and the furthest one sometimes fails to turn off in the morning with the rest. Intermittently, even though there is plenty of WiFi signal there.

[@hotlou2]

Great video as always! You need a mesh system with 2 or 3 base stations. I did that to my house everything speeded up, have ring doorbell, Alexa’s, smart switches, about 20 total 😮

[@chrisrasmussen5018]

I think openhab can be configured to run your old Insteon hardware. I specifically went for smart hardware that is supported by the Tasmota firmware and open source in home server solutions. Given the community behind Tasmota I would hope that the development continues for years to come.

[@handydadtv]

You flash all your devices? That’s over most people’s heads.

[@BobFrTube]

I started using Insteon from the prototype days and, at the time, it was 100% local without any external dependency using my own apps to manage the devices. The shift to apps rather than local interfaces was one of the reasons I shifted away as IP-based devices with local APIs became available.

[@handydadtv]

I was also an Insteon use long before the hub. But once I got the hub, I was hooked.

[@BobFrTube]

@@handydadtv I should add that I wrote my own software to set up the relationships between the devices so I never used "raw" Insteon. I only used the PLM et al and then the hubs as interfaces for my own software. For a while, I used Houselinc but they dropped support.

[@handydadtv]

I’m a geek too so I appreciate the custom software. 👍🏻

[@Jcolbykone]

Anxiously awaiting what fix you discover.

[@handydadtv]

I’m evaluating several options now. Stay tuned.

[@stevekopcial129]

Initially I purchased the Universal Devices Hub and integrated my Insteon devices and works great, it also works with many technology manufacturers, I just purchased the Phillips motion sensor. I would not wait for a "New Direction" for Insteon, I did this with X10 for 5 years and it just died.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks for sharing

[@Ricksworldtv]

Hoobs can get your insteon devices back up with the existing hub, no plm needed. Hoobs allows you to use Apples home interface to control you insteon devices, even the cameras. Hoobs doesn't rely on external web servers like the old Insteon.

[@sdophoto1405]

considering hoobs. It works with Alexa too right?

[@handydadtv]

Thanks for the tip

[@bigredwag]

An entirely new video series 🎉👍. Looking forward to it!

[@handydadtv]

Thanks so much 😊

[@stevenpeck5949]

I had Iris Smart Hub by Lowes, I paid the monthly fee to get all the services. Still they closed. At least they bought back some of the devices. It's been a few years. I think Ring has a chance at doing the home automation or ADT maybe.

[@handydadtv]

I can see Ring moving in that direction.

[@BrackFlack]

Looking forward to figure out what to move to next. I really liked insteon connected with the scenes in a Universal Devices controller except two things. I've already replaced the power line adapter three times and the fan controllers are inconsistent speeds when you have two fans in the same room low medium high are not the same on both of them.

[@handydadtv]

I went with HomeSeer because it works with the Insteon hub. Future devices will be Z Wave.

[@swimmer0049]

I had many Insteon devices as well and it’s so frustrating. I was able to find other manufacturers for most of the things I needed and I made sure they all work with google home as I figure google isn’t going anywhere

[@handydadtv]

I think you’re safe 😂

[@MattNis1]

Google home still requires communication to the manufacturer’s cloud.

[@swimmer0049]

@@MattNis1 I know it does to set it up but I can’t tell if that continues after setup. Do you know more?

[@c094728]

It's very possible that a buyer will buy the insteon assets and patent and resurrect the technology. Insteon is great technology. I would not give up all hope. I'm running homeseer now and it works great with it.

[@handydadtv]

🤞🏻

[@311DaveR]

So I was burned as well, but there is a future and it is bright, no pun intended. Two things I highly recommend, the first is use a hub-less technology. A perfect example would be to purchase Amazon plugs to switch on your plugged devices. Yes, it requires the cloud, but I think Amazon is good for a while :). Next, for dimmable lights where you want to use a plug module, I found yet another hub-less device that works very well. It is the TreatLife smart plug. Yes, it requires the cloud but works without a hub. As for my light switches, I will probably go to Lutron but that requires a hub. Of course, they are yet another business like Amazon that I don’t expect to go under. I hope one day the Insteon devices are usable, as it was a great solution. Thanks for the video. PS - I know I didn’t cover everything, but I truly believe that a hub-less solution has reduced risk all around.

[@handydadtv]

As you said, there is no such thing as a hub-less smart home. Yours just happens to be in the cloud. I’m not sure that’s better than having one in your home. Pros and cons.

[@beverininc.1149]

Thanks for your videos… trying to find the best solution for my 40+ insteon devices in my home… ate you testing more options? I’m hoping for an apple integration (HomeKit), heard that Hoobs might have a solution for that?… looking forward to find out more

[@handydadtv]

This is my favorite so far kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5PWXnx4hNVqaKM

[@eatachalupa]

As far as I know, if you have the Insteon USB Adapter (2448A7) you should still be able to use that sans a connection to Insteon's servers.

[@handydadtv]

The servers were shut down. The company closed.

[@PWingert1966]

I learned my lesson long ago with an online storage device called Pogo Plug. They went bankrupt and access to my virtual hard drive went bankrupt. Luckily, I was using it as an online Archive of local stuff burned to DVD and CD. Many People lost a great deal of their information with no notice.

[@handydadtv]

That is a HARD LESSON to learn!! Imagine how many people would lose all their family pictures and home movies if Dropbox (for example) goes under? That’s why I have a NAS in my house. I have a cloud backup of the NAS, but my digital life is safely stored on a device I control.

[@mparrish59]

I purchased the Homeseer software which has been around for over 15 years and their Insteon integration works with existing Insteon Hubs over your local network (NO Servers needed) the Integration also works with any PLM and runs on an old P.C. running windows 10 or Linux or it can run on a Rasberry PI, for under $250.00 it is on sale now. They also sell pre-configured hub servers which can be expensive. Homeseer uses software plugins that support most devices and protocols, Z-wave, Zigbee, Insteon, Ecobee. Lutron. TP-Link, Hue, LIFX, Sonos, and many more. Yhis is more than Lighting control, this is Home Control.

[@handydadtv]

I’ve only been using it a couple of weeks, and just for lighting, and I’m very impressed.

[@mparrish59]

@@handydadtv I started with X10 and got Insteon from the Smarthome store in Irvine CA I also had an ISY-26 that would not work with Amazon Echo.

[@IanSmithCA]

"Any PLM"? What Insteon PLM is there other than the 2412n?

[@florflores6632]

Thanks for the video, I cant wait for the video that explains what to do whith the cameras

[@handydadtv]

What cameras do you have?

[@rkngl6073]

Please keep us updated for any technology that can be used to replace these switches from Insteon. I am trying to figure out OpenHab but I am not very computer savy and I have spent so many hours looking through youtube videos but none of them explain in detail what to do to control all of the lights with OpenHab and how to configure it.

[@handydadtv]

Here’s the first option: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j57Gk3Vjasx-f80

[@HATipsByLarry]

My advice, stay away from hubs all together. I would also recommend Home Assistant, its open source and runs on a LOT of different hardware from raspberry pi's to intel nuks to many different types of PC's, the list goes on and on. And it works with a LOT of different manufacture's devices. I currently have aqara (no aqara hub required), smartthings (no smartthings hub required), meross, home kit, harmony hub, GE, switchbot, zooz, sengled and many other devices in my smart home that work directly with home assistant. Most of them are zigbee and z-wave and wifi. Also have espresense (room presence detection) intergrated through mqtt which home assistant runs as a intergration. Also it has a ecobee intergration as well. And also has support for the insteon devices even though the company has closed its doors. And they work locally, (not through the cloud) so automations are very fast. Plus there is a lot of supporting docs and community to help with questions. FYI i also started with X10 devices. Radio shack got me started with them.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks. Home Assistant is on my list.

[@lloydsprung799]

Thanks for this informative video. I also started with x10. Agree someone should buy their assets for the user base, turn on servers and/or sell compatible hub that will allow devices to work again. Strangely the schedules to turn on/off lights still seems to work even though hub is out. But can’t program any scenes./switches anymore. As alternative to Insteon I think lutron ra2 and Leviton smart switches are best options

[@handydadtv]

The timers in your hub will continue to work unless you do a factory reset. But you can’t edit them without the app.

[@mikeebner8313]

I’m going to Home Assistant and have already integrated the Insteon devices in my home. As they fail they will be replaced with Shelly or the like which will also work with Home Assistant.

[@handydadtv]

I evaluated Home Assistant and just don’t have the time to make it work for my mix of Insteon, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and MQTT. HomeSeer is better for busy people.

[@mwenger74114]

I have a house full of insteon devices. I started migrating into some zigbee and z-wave devices when I added Kwikset smart locks to my doors. The ISY/Universal Devices products have integration for all three technologies and I have found it to be much better than the Insteon Hub. I will miss the wall multi-switchs and hope that some one buys up the patent and starts manufacturing some of the insteon products (including the PLM which you have to have with your ISY to make it work with insteon)

[@handydadtv]

The need for a PLM is definitely a drawback. I had an ISY/ZW with a PLM, did a review, and then sold it. I’m a happy HomeSeer user now. It works with the Insteon hub, which most people have.

[@hellhound-si5oz]

I did this very day are still using the x10 platform experimenting around with the Phillips Hue system but still preferencing the x10

[@handydadtv]

That’s old school! Glad it still works for you.

[@hellhound-si5oz]

@@handydadtv yes

[@StayConnectedEV]

Ecobee has monthly service fee.. They have an alarm...

[@handydadtv]

Yes, but that’s just if you want their Haven service. It’s completely optional. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXa6hJ-PaKZrbpo

[@rb8049]

Insteon was never reliable enough for me so I paid for an expensive unpowered wireless switch which works great for an outdoor pool light. For other lights WiFi is working for me.

[@handydadtv]

Surprised your Insteon wasn’t reliable. Mine was/is rock solid. WiFi devices give me issues.

[@andymok7945]

My home automation is purely local. I was considering to get some Insteon stuff a few years back. Home Assistant was what I went with and have had zero regrets. I pay for Nabu Casa, but do not use it as I don't need access to my home automation stuff when I am away from home. I do it to support the Home Assistant team. I buy switches, etc that have Tasmota pre-installed on them or can have Tasmota installed on them. I have also bought some Zigbee devices (Zigbee 3.0) and have the Sonoff Zigbee 3.0 USB dongle. Home Assistant has plenty of integration, including Insteon. I had a few X10 back in the day.

[@handydadtv]

I went with HomeSeer. I have tried to setup Home Assistant several times on my NAS and just can’t justify spending the time to get it all working with my Zigbee/ZWave combo stick. And the Insteon integration isn’t nearly as functional as HomeSeer’s. I kinda feel like a failure because so many people use it! I’m sure I could get it working; it’s just a matter of time that I don’t have. Maybe when I retire…

[@andymok7945]

@@handydadtv I first started with HA on a Pi, then as a VM on Proxmox on a small brick PC and then in Proxmox on a much better system that had more resources and I was adding more and more VMs and such. Because I had so many VMs, LXCs and I did not want HA to be down when I had to restart Proxmox. I have 95% migrated HA to the HA Blue hardware (Odroid N2+) . I have MQTT, Node-Red & Zigbee2 MQTT , ESPHome running as LXCs on a smaller Proxmox system. I still need to get InfluxDB and Grafana installed as well. When I had HA on Proxmox, the rest were add-ons inside HA. I prefer to have them isolated. I had to Zigbee2MQTT on a VM, as passing the USB port of the Zigbee dongle was quite unstable. Everything is very responsive and I am adding more and more automations. Next project is to use a Martin-Jerry 3 button dimmer that is running Tasmota (3rd party open-source firmware). Using rules to create different lighting scenes for the bathroom. Default will be warm white low level. Can change to warm white mid level, then to full level neutral white. Also can vary the brightness as a normal dimmer as well.

[@handydadtv]

Wow! I definitely appreciate this info because it confirms that I made the right decision FOR ME at this time. I am a computer geek and I’m sure I could solve it eventually if I dedicate the time. Maybe someday.

[@thefreeheart9654]

They are back!

[@handydadtv]

Yes very exciting to see what happens next.

[@davebroere9078]

Hi Chris... apparently I made the same mistake - hitching my wagon to INSTEON. Didn't see the big go-dark situation because I'm using a Universal Devices ISY. My home system consists of 65 devices -- all Insteon lighting and no Z wave. The reliability of Insteon devices isn't great so I'm marking time till I have to make a move away from Insteon. Last look at Universal Devices was a bit confusing - ISY, Polisy and much confusion. I'm thinking my first step will be to add a Z Wave radio to my ISY device. From that point I should be able to start a one-by-one move from Insteon to Z Wave devices. There are a few caveats: Insteon made an 6/8-button switch which, as far as I can tell, isn't being done by any Z Wave manufacturers. My house is loaded with about 20 of these devices so I'll need to do some lighting restructuring. I'd be interested in any comments from folks that are in this same situation. (thanks for making this video)

[@handydadtv]

I have a 5 button ZW scene controller to test when I get through the hub reviews. Stay tuned.

[@davebroere9078]

@@handydadtv Thanks for the update. I'm definitely interested in a ZW scene controller such as this.

[@BobKinNJ]

I started with X10 back in the late 80's and currently run a mixed system of X10 and Insteon through Home Assistant and a Raspberry Pi4 talking to a PLM. Many of my X10 switches and dimmers are original and still work fine. Many of the Insteon devices have failed over the years and had to be replaced. As an EE looking at the Insteon designs, it's as if they were designed by amateurs who don't understand design margins or how to protect against transients. With the demise of smarthome I'm seriously looking at the Lutron system as a future replacement.

[@handydadtv]

I’ve replaced a couple of keypads over the years, probably from surges. I’d always try to keep an extra on hand; buy when on sale instead of when you need them. I know nothing about EE, but I believe you. Still the best and most reliable home automation platform I ever used.

[@StefRenaud]

I too started with X10 back early 90. Migrated to Insteon because of there 8 buttons keypad. I used them to not only control lights but also run HomeSeer events to turn on TV etc. I still have 6 keypad in my setup. I also have lot’s of dimmers. But every time they die, I replace them with Lutron Caseta. With Lutron make more thing like keypad.

[@handydadtv]

Lutron has been trying to get me to convert to Caseta but I’d really miss those keypad dimmers.

[@StefRenaud]

@@handydadtv Also, there’s no setting with Caseta. I like the double tab to instant on. And the wife like that at 10 pm, an event dim all the the dimmer led. At 11pm, the bathroom lights are set to turn on slowly, up to 20%. I don’t know other dimmer that do all this.

[@maxking3]

You can continue with amateur stuff, or have a look at the only worldwide standard for home automation… KNX! 500 vendors, 7000 devices, around since the 1990s and made for the long-term…. no cloud, no lock-in. Scales from a small apartment to the largest hotels and office buildings. Unfortunately, the US is a wasteland when it comes to professional smart home installations, so it is way more difficult to find an integrator in America than in Europe, where KNX is everywhere. Just spend a few hours researching KNX and you’ll be blown away!!

[@handydadtv]

I admit, I never heard of KNX so I Googled it. Keywords that resonated with me: hard-wired, expensive, and inflexible. Should really be designed with the building, difficult for retrofit. Doesn’t fit my needs.

[@JaRew]

I’m in the same boat as you. I have Insteon switches and preferred their design over others. I know there’s plenty of others that do similar things, but none that I liked as much. I have about $2k+ in switches that now have lost their smart functionality. Super sad… I am frustrated but not surprised. The frustrating things is that I bought several of these probably while they knew they were going to be shutting down… maybe I need to just sell what I have and give up. Mine as basically new.

[@handydadtv]

I found the easiest solution: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5PWXnx4hNVqaKM

[@magnus33john]

Home assistant or it's like is the way to go. As mentioned many companies make there money by selling products and if they don't do well they can go bust. I disagree with the idea of paid services since they are no more likely to survive or to keep your devices running then the none paid one's. Many of the paid services have also gone belly up and others have discontinued support on products for no better reason then to make more money selling you a new one. It's far better to get devices that allow for local control or can be flashed to do so removing dependency on companies to keep your products going. I run home assistant and none of my devices are fully dependent on the cloud to run although i can still use it if needed. This gives me all the convenance and yet still be assured my devices shall function if the could goes poof. These leaves the control in our hands and not in some company that may go bust or change things on a whim.

[@handydadtv]

Are you using Insteon with Home Assistant? Through the hub or PLM?

[@fltech189]

Hi Bro, Been considering Hoobs to be able to use my products. In a condo and we have basically lights and leak sensors. :)

[@handydadtv]

I’ve been hearing a lot about Hoobs. I should put it on my list.

[@KameraShy]

X10 still works for me. I have said for years do NOT rely on ANY "cloud." Including for your data.

[@handydadtv]

Glad to hear X10 still works for you. I gave up on it when I discovered Insteon.

[@tdbethel]

I’m in the same situation. Purchased a HOOBS hub that should allow Apple HomeKit integration. It would be great if you did your next video on HOOBS,

[@handydadtv]

I’m not big on HomeKit. I use Alexa.

[@sdophoto1405]

@@handydadtv Hoobs is suppose to work with Alexa

[@michaelstafford3305]

How does the Hoobs HUB integrate with the INSTEON HUB? Can you do a video please ?

[@handydadtv]

I’ll see

[@JohnnieHougaardNielsen]

My whole smarthome setup is based on cloudless and open source software, mainly on Wifi or Zigbee. Factory firmware on Wifi devices replaced by Tasmota. No risk of a company closure affecting my devices, and I could even fix things myself. My main risk may be if commercial devices move to platforms where I can't replace firmware, but with Zigbee being at least "reasonably open", no foreseeable risk of a sudden squeeze.

[@handydadtv]

Good plan

[@PedroValejo]

In the video you mentioned that the price for insteon products is going up because of what is happening. But why would people be wanting to get their hands on these devices if they know longer work? Unfortunately I also have a house full of insteon products that unfortunately don’t work anymore.

[@handydadtv]

Oh but they do work. The only thing that doesn’t work is connectivity with Insteon servers. But there are alternatives that can resurrect your hub. Keep watching my latest videos.

[@kennixox262]

Do NOT rely on a company or the cloud to control your home - period!

[@handydadtv]

What do you use?

[@kennixox262]

@@handydadtv For home automation? Nothing. One has to get up and turn on/off a switch, adjust thermostats, lock/and unlock the doors. Until a reliable standard is created, I'll pass and no, I am not a technophobe, quite the opposite, but I do reject junk technology and refuse to pay to BETA test for tech companies. Did that back in the 1990's.

[@coralreefer23]

@@kennixox262 😆😆😆 caveman

[@kevinrush4411]

​@@kennixox262 Insteon is very flexible and has many non-cloud options for installation. Why doesn't everyone know this?

[@miked.7882]

I quit using the Insteon hub shortly after getting one. I went back to using Indigo because it’s local control and can also use Zigbee and Z-wave devices, and can control my Homekit modules. I stopped buying Insteon devices several years ago and only have their water leak sensors left to replace.

[@handydadtv]

Good move

[@almanson9500]

Homeseer looks great. It's a bit out of my price range, though. I'm considering Hubitat as a more cost effective route for keeping my Insteon setup working (with Alexa) with no monthly fees. I'm worried about the learning curve, though. Any chance you might have a look at it?

[@handydadtv]

I looked into it and the Insteon interface sucks. Same with Home Assistant. That’s why I recommend HomeSeer. Yes, the Insteon plug-in costs $59, but that’s cheaper than the cost of a single Insteon device. You didn’t skimp on your switches. Don’t skimp on the solution to keep them running.

[@almanson9500]

@@handydadtv Thanks for that quick reply and insight. Also, your videos are amazingly clear and straightforward. Much appreciated.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks so much 😊

[@MattNis1]

I have a lot of Insteon and I liked it because they work as 3-way dimmers. Most do not have 3 way or are not dimmers. Belkin dimmers would have been Perfect if the dimmers could just be linked together 3way

[@handydadtv]

I never tried Belkin dimmers. Need to look that up.

[@davebroere9078]

Spent a bit more time researching transitional solutions for anyone implementing ISY controlled INSTEON systems. at this point, I believe the answer, for me, will be to transition to the Universal Devices Polisy device (Policy = Polyglot-ISY). This approach uses a USB-connected Z Wave dongle to expand functionality. This would allow newer technology Z Wave dongles as the technology advances. The solution also builds on my current experience with ISY technology.

[@handydadtv]

I’ve got a couple more evaluations coming, so hold off for a couple of weeks. Never know if something else might be easier for you.

[@kenmoore7592]

Th÷re are other options to replace the Insteon hub. You can use a Universal Devices hub our Homeseer hub. Both of these hub don't use cloud servers. They are both stand alone huds. They both support several protocols. Homeseer by far the most.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks. I’m evaluating both of them. Videos to come.

[@sandie1798]

I’m glad that you were a suggestion by KZbin!!! I don’t have a clue about what you’re sharing (my husband does all of our smart home stuff), but I know that you are going to have some VERY useful information, that I will NEED to know one day…so I subscribed and belled! This video was VERY informative, Thank you!!

[@handydadtv]

Thanks for subscribing! Welcome to the family!

[@doughale1555]

Any IoT that requires the “cloud” for internal functionality is the “wrong horse”

[@handydadtv]

Touché

[@marknahabedian1803]

I have an Insteon PLM controlled by a RaspberryPi. I rejected the Insteon Hub and it's required cloud service because of the security and privacy implications.

[@handydadtv]

I blocked my hub’s access to the Internet and have been using it very successfully with HomeSeer.

[@KingTech451]

OpenHabian on a Rasberry Pi 4: Just copied the image to a USB drive, booted the Pi from it. Used the Web GUI to add the Insteon Binding, gave it my HUB IP, and the username/password on the HUB label, and it discovered all my devices. Devices were listed with DeviceID. So I had to take cover plates off to read the DeviceID. THEN clicked on the "thing", clicked the "Channel" tab, "Added Link Item". Finished up by setting up "OpenHAB Cloud". Then clicked on each "Linked Item", Clicked "Add MetaData", and selected "Amazon Alexa". All done through a Web GUI. I was so happy I gave a little to OpenHab.

[@handydadtv]

Thanks for the info 👍🏻

[@SamuelProcopio]

I just realized yesterday that Insteon was off when I tried to open my app, because my outside lights are still turning on and off at the schedule. Can you make a video using this new Home Assistant? Thanks

[@handydadtv]

Coming soon.

[@everynone1849]

Second the rec for Home Assistant. If all your smart home is local to begin with, corps can't cut off your features down the line.

[@handydadtv]

Do you pay for the voice integration?

[@everynone1849]

@@handydadtv no I have Echo around the home, but truthfully if Amazon evaporated tomorrow I'm not sure I'd pay for voice. I find that I much prefer physical switches with an app.

[@handydadtv]

I meant, do you pay for Home Assistant Cloud so you can use Alexa?

[@stephenu3833]

Homeseer has exactly what you’re talking about- their hub will control your Insteon devices and be able to control other platform devices as well. The problem is their stuff is extremely expensive.

[@handydadtv]

I’m evaluating HomeSeer right now. Stay tuned.

[@stephenu3833]

They have an option to use your home computer or laptop to run their software in lieu of their hardware. The problem there is not everyone has a computer at each location that they run home automation at

[@michaelh7506]

I went crazy trying to figure out why my hub quit working, I was an x-10 user too, I loved my Insteon when it worked 99.9 percent of the time. What am I doing to use I'm thinking of getting the Govee plugs they use wifi (2.4 band) and blue tooth I just used my plug-in modules for my lights. Perfect for my grow lights in my plant room I packed them all put them in my electrical box with all my parts. I'm a new subscriber :)

[@handydadtv]

Thanks for subscribing! Welcome to the family!

[@Rich33527]

Note to all of your viewers. Do NOT reset your hub. Home Assistant has an integration but if you reset your hub, no dice. Home assistant can operate without the cloud, or even the internet. Z-wave and Zigbee support with supporting dongles.

[@handydadtv]

Some people on Reddit said they reset and were fine. Just needed to link their devices again.

[@swadeepchintala7590]

Would love to see videos how to configure Insteon with HASS. All my automation of lights has come to a standstill :(

[@handydadtv]

It’s on my list.

[@swadeepchintala7590]

@@handydadtv Thank you!!

[@robertpendzick9250]

Slingbox will be suffering the same fate. Will not be able to watch my tv over the slingbox anywhere. And I've used it to sling my home tv stations all the way to many places in Europe, and across the US. SAVE SLINGBOX

[@handydadtv]

Yeah but at least they gave advance notice.

[@jasondessenberg6096]

Gave home Assistant a try but it did not really work out for me. Going to give Homeseer a try. Their platform seems to be a little easier to deal with.

[@handydadtv]

I have a HomeSeer hub on order! 🤞🏻

[@jasondessenberg6096]

@@handydadtv Hopefully you have better luck than I am having. I found most of my devices but none of them operate using the homeseer gui. Nothing shows up in the mobile app. Home Assistant was much easier.

[@handydadtv]

I’ll try Home Assistant after HomeSeer.

[@SoCalVipers]

Every switch in my house is Insteon. I have been using an ISY controller for over a decade, so when Insteon shut off their servers, I hardly noticed. I also have a bunch of extra switches, so I'll be good for a while. What is sad to me, is that there really is no other solution as complete and elegant as Insteon. Also, all the other home automatoin products come an go - the giant corporations who own them have no heart for home automation. All that matters is if it's a worthwhile business endeavor. Smart Home/ Insteon were committed and continued to develop products for at least 10 years. The good news is that the Insteon servers are back online and one of the key creators of the product now owns the company. He only needs to solve the first problem - Insteon is the greatest HA product line that no one has ever heard of.

[@handydadtv]

Fingers crossed 🤞🏻 that it doesn’t become one of those “home automation products that come and go”.

[@rustusandroid]

This is why I never got one. Having the hub requirement to reach the internet instead of storing profiles locally, was a no go for me. All these companies fail in this market.

[@handydadtv]

Not all fail. But Insteon never seems to advertise and I don’t see influencers promoting their products. In business, you’re either growing or dying. I don’t see how they can survive even with the annual fee.

[@byoung1520]

I have over 80 insteon devices around my house, and I use an ISY-994 so at least everything will still work in the meantime. the downside is that some devices are starting to fail and I won't be able to get replacements (I have a box of extras and I have to decide to use them or sell on eBay and gradually switch to new tech).

[@handydadtv]

I predict the secondary market of used devices will go on for 10 years or more. So you’ll be able to get them for a long time, but they’ll have many miles on them. The Achilles heel is the PLM. They are rare. But, if it fails, it can be fixed by replacing the capacitors.

[@dr.curious5136]

Home assistant will be your best friend ..

[@handydadtv]

Hope so

[@StayConnectedEV]

HOMEBRIDGE FREE!

[@handydadtv]

Haven’t heard of them. Will check it out.

[@StayConnectedEV]

@@handydadtv also Hubitat everything is done inside your house. This is definitely your solution.

[@handydadtv]

I’ve heard of Hubitat.

[@sdophoto1405]

@@StayConnectedEV don't you need to have a dedicated computer

[@StayConnectedEV]

@@sdophoto1405 it’s your own cloud

[@jjones8587]

The servers are back on! Subscription service with all new company ownership! Keep your insteon products

[@handydadtv]

Glad to hear that!

[@andyhutch1947]

In my previous home I had installed 69 Insteon devices about 10 years ago. In my new home it came with 6 Lutron devices but I liked the Insteon better, especially the 6 & 8 button switch. I had some extra devices that I brought with me. I purchased the Insteon Hub, 2245-222 a couple months ago but I didn’t try installing it until a few weeks ago. SURPRISE! I forgot that I needed a PLM. I am a Mac person but I forget which PLM I need. I do have an older model AppleTV that may work to keep my iMac 27 from staying ON all the time. Can you please suggest which one is best. I do have an extra modem PLM but I don’t remember why I switched to the USB version. I am looking at the Home Assistant software.

[@handydadtv]

So you have a hub and a USB PLM?

[@JackRussell021]

Our stuff is Z-wave connected to a Samsung SmartThings hub. I suppose if Samsung killed the thing, I could get a different brand of Z-wave hub and re-pair the various devices. Or just re-purpose a Raspberry Pi that I already have lying around into a replacement hub, which is evidently also possible. Our smart thermostats are all Trane. I am not too worried about them going away either. I suppose you could say that proprietary protocols developed by start-ups are always potential traps. Sorry you got caught in this one.

[@handydadtv]

Z-wave was a good choice. I’m investigating that as well.

[@philm7732]

I’m confused. I had a houseful of Insteon that I sold years ago. It did not need Internet connectivity, so what has changed since then? I used a local Indigo server and it worked well, aside from the fact that Insteon hardware was failure prone and Insteon communications were unreliable. Those last two are probably why they went belly up.

[@handydadtv]

You never used the Insteon hub, app or voice integration so you wouldn’t have been impacted. Coincidentally, so many people, myself included, say Insteon has been the most rock solid platform with respect to reliability. When I push a keypad button, my lights work every time, without fail.

[@handydadtv]

You never used the Insteon hub, app or voice integration so you wouldn’t have been impacted. Coincidentally, so many people, myself included, say Insteon has been the most rock solid platform with respect to reliability. When I push a keypad button, my lights work every time, without fail.

[@handydadtv]

You never used the Insteon hub, app or voice integration so you wouldn’t have been impacted. Coincidentally, so many people, myself included, say Insteon has been the most rock solid platform with respect to reliability. When I push a keypad button, my lights work every time, without fail.

[@MikeHarris1984]

I migrated all my systems to Home Assistant from smarthings last year after constant outages... Now my whole smart home is run locally from a server in my house and when cloud / internet goes down, I only lose Alexa/Google connectivity, everything else will work from the app as normal.

[@handydadtv]

I love the idea. The only downside would be, it has such a learning curve that nobody in my family could manage it if I was away. They only know how to reboot the Internet by unplugging the router and cable modem.

[@andrewherman18]

So disappointed in the way Insteon disappeared. Ended up using UD Polisy with internal ISY. Added Zwave module. If I understand, Zwave is open, so should be around for a while. Most of the switches and dimmers can be found for Zwave, so as they break, I will replace with Zwave. I have not found a replacement for the 6 or 8 button keypad.

[@handydadtv]

INTERNAL ISY???? That’s a thing?? The website says Polisy needs a PLM.

[@andrewherman18]

@@handydadtv Correct, I had a PLM from my old ISY. ISY is in the new Polisy box.

[@handydadtv]

Is Polisy worth it? Is it just more interfaces than the old ISY?

[@andrewherman18]

@@handydadtv It has Polyglot on board where you can add various notes and interfaces. I think it is going to be the replacement for the ISY.

[@PedroValejo]

Insteon is back!!

[@handydadtv]

Yes!

[@bradactual]

Home Assistant and Tasmota firmware on devices. But HA will take take care of the immediate issue.

[@handydadtv]

Do you have to flash all the devices yourself? Does anything come with Tasmota already installed?

[@ugh635]

To those they this video applies to. Have you looked into using Home Assistant to solve this issue?

[@handydadtv]

It’s one of the solutions I’m investigating.

[@ugh635]

@@handydadtv there are options for hardware for it. They have even come out with their own HA computer.

[@phtofl]

Wyze is another example of this. They had, and probably still are, suffering with their business model. Turns out selling $19.99 cameras doesn't make enough profit to stay alive. I like their systems so still have been using them, but i guess i wouldn't be surprised if they go belly up too.

[@handydadtv]

Yes, perfect example.

[@steelfist65]

I use Wink. Every month, I wonder if my blue light will continue to shine. I was an X10 guy back in the day. I've migrated away from most Zwave lighting controls and only have my thermostats and door locks on Wink. Otherwise, everything else is on Wi-Fi.

[@handydadtv]

I’m on the fence about introducing all those WiFi devices. Especially when they all are made in China and use cloud servers. A networking geek may know how to isolate them on a subnet, but most people wouldn’t know how to do that.

[@steelfist65]

@@handydadtv I understand completely. I would favor Zwave, but trying to find a controller that's user friendly is another matter all together. I have worked on a few Lutron Radiora systems, but are generally unimpressed with their software options. It boils down to cost and security.

[@AtracBreezy]

HomeAssistant or bust. Supports everything under the sun to where you don’t need to worry about situations like this.

[@handydadtv]

HA video coming soon.

[@bluegizmo1983]

This crap really makes me mad! Even worse is when the companies willfully turn off devices and brick them while still being in business! I own several Slingbox M1's, which are boxes you buy to be able to remotely stream and control your home cable TV boxes so you can watch all your cable TV channels live from anywhere. These boxes connect to a remote server at Sling just to authenticate your username and password when connection. All streaming, encoding, decoding, etc is done peer 2 peer from your box to your client, so the server is literally just to check username and password. Well, Sling has decided to shut off those servers at the end of 2022, which means ALL slingbox's will be bricked because you won't be able to authenticate with your box. They aren't going out of business, they are just trying to push everyone to pay for a monthly subscription to their SlingTV online streaming service! There is absolutely NO reason authentication couldn't be done locally on the box, but Sling refuses to release a firmware with local authentication or to open source the box firmware since they're abandoning it. It's total BS.

[@handydadtv]

I had one of the Sling boxes at one point. Yeah, that sucks. But at least you got advance notice.

[@jjones8587]

New ownership, Insteon is on it’s way back. Subscription plan for the server. They are working with manufacturers to restart production of the insteon devices.

[@adolfojp]

Devices that require cloud services but that don't charge subscription fees are essentially Ponzi schemes. Like you say, infinite growth as a requirement for providing services to previous customers is not a sustainable business model.

[@handydadtv]

Good point

[@handydadtv]

And the old technology winds up in a landfill.

[@jimgolab536]

I have a bunch of Insteon water leak sensors that do NOT connect to the wall power. Are these now useless?

[@handydadtv]

No! They still work fine. Watch my latest video to see an example using an Insteon leak sensor. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5PWXnx4hNVqaKM