I get the appeal of humidity sensors, but I’ve had a couple go haywire over the years—one just kept running nonstop, which drove my tenants nuts. Ended up swapping it for a simple timer switch. Less fancy, but at least I know exactly when it’s on or off. Maybe I’m just old school, but sometimes the “smart” stuff gets a little too clever for its own good...
Honestly, I get where you’re coming from. Those humidity sensors can be a bit of a gamble—when they work, they’re great, but when they don’t, it’s just another headache. I’ve had one that kept the fan running for hours after a quick shower, and it drove me up the wall. Sometimes, sticking with a tried-and-true timer or manual switch just makes life easier. There’s something to be said for having direct control, especially if you’re dealing with tenants who might not want to fuss with “smart” features.
That said, I do like the idea of tech making things more convenient, but only if it actually works as intended. Maybe in a few years these sensors will be more reliable, but for now, I’m with you—simple can be better. And hey, congrats on getting your reno permit sorted out. That process is never as straightforward as you hope, so it’s a win in my book.
- Totally agree about the sensors being hit or miss.
- From what I’ve seen, the “smart” features often end up confusing people more than helping, especially in rentals.
- Manual switches are just more predictable—less to troubleshoot when something goes sideways.
- That said, I’ve had a couple clients swear by their humidity sensors, but they’re usually the higher-end models (and even then, not perfect).
- If you’re doing a reno, wiring for both options isn’t a bad idea. Gives you flexibility down the line if tech improves or tenants change.
- Permit process is always a wild card... glad yours went smoother than most.
I get the point about manual switches being more predictable, but I’ve actually seen more issues crop up from tenants forgetting to use them than from the sensors themselves. Especially in high-humidity areas, people just don’t always remember to flip the fan on, and then you’re dealing with mold or peeling paint down the line.
Manual switches are just more predictable—less to troubleshoot when something goes sideways.
True, but sometimes “predictable” means “predictably ignored.” The higher-end humidity sensors aren’t perfect, but they do cut down on user error. If you’re wiring for both, maybe lean into the sensor side for bathrooms that see a lot of turnover. Just my two cents from too many late-night moisture damage calls...
I get the argument for sensors, but honestly, I’ve had more headaches with them than with plain old switches. Maybe it’s just my luck, but the “smart” ones in my last place would either kick on for no reason or not turn on at all when you actually needed them. Replacing a sensor is pricier too, and I’m not convinced they last as long. For me, I’d rather risk someone forgetting to flip a switch than shell out for another finicky gadget down the road. Maybe I’m just old school, but simple usually means fewer surprises... and fewer calls to the electrician.