What is a Shelly Bypass?
A Shelly Bypass is required where there is neutral wire and where the power consumption is less than 20 watts. If the load of the light is very low (typically, LED lights), you need to add some form of load, that's where the need of a bypass comes in!
Rather than turning off the light, the Shelly 1L and Shelly Dimmer 2, dim the light so low, it stops glowing, leaving a very small current flowing through the circuit of the Shelly Device to keep it running, even when the light is off.
Do I need a Shelly Bypass?
Most LED lightbulbs in New Zealand are under 20 watts. The Shelly 1L or Dimmer 2 require a minimum load to be able to power the module so if you are below this value then you will need one.
If you are using the Shelly 1L or the Shelly Dimmer 2 in a place with no neutral wire (such as behind a light switch) and you live in New Zealand, yes you most likely do.
Where do I install the Shelly Bypass
If you are installing a Shelly Bypass in a lighting circuit in New Zealand, you will need to attach the Shelly Bypass between the Output wire going to the lightbulb and the neutral going to the other side of the lightbulb. It will feel very unnatural to connect the wire this way. Most people in New Zealand have a ceiling rose or light fitting which allows the space for a Shelly Bypass. They are really small, being only 39 mm x 23 mm x 7 mm.
Do I need a Shelly Bypass if I have a Neutral Wire?
No, you only need a Shelly Bypass where there is no Neutral wire.
What about Dimmable Loads do I need one to stop lights flickering?
Yes, if you are using Dimmable LEDs with less than 50 Watts total load they may be subject to flickering especially when dimmed down low. The bypass will stop this flickering.
If you have a Neutral wire you may wish to consider either the Shelly 1 or the Shelly 1PM unless you need the dimming function specifically.
