Devices
Optimizing Z-Wave network range
How the mesh works, placement that helps, and when to heal.
Z-Wave is a mesh: every mains-powered device (switch, dimmer, plug) relays for the others, so range grows as you add powered devices. Battery devices do not relay.
Placement
- Put the hub centrally and up off the floor; avoid metal cabinets, fridges and the inside of AV racks.
- Keep a powered device every room or two between the hub and the far end of the home. A smart plug is the cheapest relay.
- Thick walls, foil-backed insulation and large mirrors block signal; route around them with a relay rather than through them.
Heal after changes
After moving the hub or adding/removing several devices, run Settings → Z-Wave → Heal network so devices learn the new routes. It runs in the background and can take a while.
Interference
Z-Wave does not share the Wi-Fi bands, but a hub sitting on top of a router or a microwave can still suffer. Half a metre of separation is enough.
Signs you need another relay
Devices that work when you stand nearby but drop out later, or respond with a delay, are usually at the edge of the mesh. Add a powered device halfway and heal.