Solving the Issue of Interfering Remote Controls for LED Lights

Me and my roommate both got LED lights for our rooms, but our remotes activate both lights even when the receivers are 20 feet apart. This issue can be frustrating and seems to be related to the frequency of the infrared signals being broadcast by the remotes. Here are several options to help resolve this problem, ranging from changing the remote's frequency channel to switching to smart lighting systems.

Change the Remote Frequency/Channel

One of the first steps to resolving this issue is to check if your LED light remotes have the capability to change their frequency channels. This feature is often found on remotes that offer multiple channels. You can usually find a small switch or setting on both the remote and the receiver that allows you to change which channel is being used. By doing this, you can set your remotes to different channels, thereby reducing the likelihood of cross-activation.

Pairing Mode

Another approach is to use the pairing mode feature, which is available on some LED lights. By placing your receiver into pairing mode, you can then use the remote to uniquely pair one light with the receiver. This ensures that only the intended light is activated by the remote. Refer to your manual for specific instructions on how to enter pairing mode.

Use a Different Remote or Smart LED Lights

If your remotes do not support channel switching, or you find the process too cumbersome, consider switching to a different brand of LED lights that come with their own unique remotes. This will eliminate any potential interference issues. Alternatively, you could opt for smart LED lights that can be controlled via an app on your phone or a smart home hub. This allows you to have independent control over your lights without any interference from your roommate's remotes.

Diminish Signal Strength

If neither of the above solutions is viable, you can try to diminish the signal strength of the remote. Here are some methods:

Block the Receiver

One way to weaken the signal is to cover the receiver with a material that blocks infrared signals, such as a piece of cardboard. However, this might not be a practical long-term solution as it could interfere with the functionality of the receiver.

Positioning

Ensure that the receivers are not in line of sight with each other. Sometimes, simply changing the angle or position of the receivers can help reduce interference.

Alternative Control Methods

For those who prefer not to use remote controls at all, consider using smart plugs to control the power to the lights independently. This way, you can turn the lights on and off without the need for remotes.

Philips Hue and Other Smart Systems

If you are using Philips Hue or other smart lighting systems that communicate via radio, lines of sight and distance are generally irrelevant. These systems also allow you to assign controllers to specific lamps, so the problem can be easily overcome. When choosing other smart lighting systems, look for brands that offer this feature to ensure a seamless user experience.

The very cheapest remote control lamps might not provide the ability to distinguish between controllers. In such cases, it might be necessary to purchase remotes from another brand for one of you to avoid interference.

Conclusion

Addressing interference from remote controls can be achieved through various methods, from changing the remote frequency, using different brands, or even transitioning to smart lighting solutions. Each option provides a different level of flexibility and control, depending on your needs and preferences. The ideal solution is to find one that balances convenience and management of the remote controls effectively.