Light Commands for Alexa
Ways to use digital assistants for lighting automation.
BY JASON STEVENS
December 7, 2020

Alexa is a great way to automate many aspects of a home’s functions, including lighting. The Amazon voice assistant helps with automation and convenience, and it also provides more comfort and more security.
Alexa devices are very intuitive, but because they’re an artificial intelligence (AI) device, there are terms and phrases they are trained to recognize, along with those they won’t understand. Once a homeowner knows the correct Alexa commands, it’s easy to get her to control the lights and add to the level of automation already in the house.
Why should a homeowner use Alexa to control lights?
Smart lighting is an easy way to create a more automated home that adds to the homeowner’s safety and comfort. Automated lights are convenient but using Alexa to turn them on and off also adds to the protection a homeowner can expect.
Common light commands
With Alexa-compatible lights, you can use these common commands:
Turn lights on or off
Dim the lights
Change the color of the lights
Simply say “Alexa,” followed by the command along with any additional details. For example, you could say, “Alexa, dim the lights to 25 percent.”
Can Alexa control all lights?
Alexa’s ability to control the lights and integrate with an automated home and security system depends on the kinds of lights a homeowner uses. Before purchasing lights, a homeowner must check and make sure those smart lights are compatible with Amazon devices.
How lighting automation can change a home
Automating lighting controls via an Alexa device can provide:
A high level of convenience for the homeowner
The ability to turn on lights without being in that room
Streamlining home security and automation into one connected Alexa and system panel
Changing the light levels — and even the lights’ color — can also change a home’s mood. Smart lighting options can make things brighter or cozier and allow the homeowner to feel good about how their home looks and feels on the inside — all with voice control.
Are you interested in home automation and monitored home security? Contact Brinks Home™ for a free quote.
Jason Stevens is a senior writer for Brinks Home. He is a "tech guy" who enjoys sharing home security and automation tips with others.