The idea
Control4 is a home automation platform. Instead of a separate app or remote for every device, Control4 connects lighting, shades, music, TV, security and more so they work together.
Scenes are the magic
A scene is a set of actions triggered by one press. A Good Night scene can lock doors, arm security, turn off lights and lower shades. A Movie scene can dim the lights, close shades and start the TV.
How you control it
You can use the Control4 app on your phone or tablet, touch panels on the wall, remotes, keypads and voice assistants.
Does it work in an older home?
Yes. Control4 works in new construction and in homes that are decades old, with wired and wireless options.
Why use a dealer?
Control4 systems are designed and programmed by authorized dealers. A good dealer tailors the system to your routines and supports it afterward. 1800Install is an Authorized Control4 dealer.
What a Control4 system includes
- A controller, the brain of the system, usually in a cabinet or rack
- Lighting devices: dimmers, switches and engraved keypads
- Interfaces: the app, Halo remotes, touch screens and voice
- Connections to TVs, audio, shades, thermostats, locks, cameras and more
- A network that ties it together, which matters more than people expect
A day in a Control4 home
In the morning, Good Morning opens the bedroom shades, turns on soft lights and starts music in the kitchen. When everyone leaves, Away locks the doors, sets back the heat and turns everything off. In the evening, Dinner dims the dining lights and plays quiet music, and Movie Time dims the family room and turns on the TV and sound. At bedtime, Good Night locks up, arms the alarm and turns off every light in the house.
Control4 vs doing it yourself
Consumer smart home apps work well for a few devices. As a home grows, you end up with many apps that don't talk to each other. Control4 puts everything into one system with one set of scenes, and it's designed, installed and supported by a dealer, so it's reliable for the whole family, including guests who never open an app.
Upgrading and support
Control4 systems can be expanded room by room and updated over the years. If you already have an older system, it can often be upgraded while keeping the wiring. See Control4 upgrades and switching dealers.
Common questions
Is Control4 only for big houses?
No. Many systems start with one room, like a theater or living room, and grow later.
Can I control Control4 with Alexa or Google?
Yes, with a 4Sight subscription. See voice control.
What if something stops working?
See Control4 not working, or call your dealer for support.