With the launch of our new 800 Series switches, you’ll enjoy the latest Z-Wave Long Range technology, better wireless performance, and updated designs. This guide will help you smoothly upgrade your 500 Series switches to their 800 Series counterparts by providing wiring notes, load ratings, size differences, and chip type changes—all in one place.
🧰 Quick Reference Upgrade Chart
|
Original 500 Series Model |
New 800 Series Replacement Model | Same Single Pole Wiring? | Same Multi-Way Wiring? | Control Type | Notable Differences |
| ZEN21 On/Off | ZEN71 800LR On/Off | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Relay → Relay | Longer range, updated chip |
| ZEN22 Dimmer | ZEN72 800LR Dimmer | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Triac → Triac | Longer range, updated chip |
| ZEN23 Toggle On/Off | ZEN73 800LR Toggle On/Off | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Relay → Relay | New wiring method; no fan support |
| ZEN24 Toggle Dimmer | ZEN74 800LR Toggle Dimmer | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Triac → Triac | New wiring method; max load change |
| ZEN26 On/Off | ZEN76 800LR On/Off | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Relay → Relay | Longer range, updated chip |
| ZEN27 Dimmer | ZEN77 800LR Dimmer | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Mosfet → Triac | LED bulb compatibility change |
🔌 Wiring Compatibility Overview
| Model | Same Single Pole Wiring? | Same Multi-Way Wiring? | Notes |
| ZEN21 → ZEN71 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Wires exactly the same in all scenarios |
| ZEN22 → ZEN72 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Wires exactly the same in all scenarios |
| ZEN23 → ZEN73 | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ZEN73 uses patented wiring design. Always follow the diagram, ZEN73 will be damaged if wired like ZEN23 |
| ZEN24 → ZEN74 | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ZEN74 uses patented wiring design. Always follow the diagram, ZEN74 will be damaged if wired like ZEN24 |
| ZEN26 → ZEN76 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Wires exactly the same in all scenarios |
| ZEN27 → ZEN77 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Wires exactly the same in all scenarios |
⚠️ Important Notes on the ZEN27 → ZEN77 Transition
The 500 series ZEN27 dimmer used a Mosfet dimming method, while the 800 series ZEN77 now uses a Triac dimmer. While both models wire the same, the change in dimmer technology may affect bulb compatibility:
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If you experience flickering, reduced dimming range, or buzzing after upgrading to the ZEN77, try swapping out your LED bulbs for ones rated as Triac-compatible.
- You can also try installing a bypass, like the one here. A bypass works by providing a small, steady electrical load in the circuit to stabilize the flow of current when the dimmer and LED bulbs aren’t fully compatible.
- In dimming circuits—especially with Triac or leading-edge dimmer—some LED bulbs don’t draw enough power when dimmed low, causing flickering, glowing when off, or unreliable performance. The dimmer may struggle to detect the bulb or maintain consistent operation at low levels.
- By installing a bypass in parallel with the load, typically at the light fixture, it “tricks” the dimmer into thinking there's a higher load. This helps the dimmer operate more reliably by ensuring there's enough current flow even when the lights are dimmed very low.
- In short: The bypass keeps the circuit stable at low power levels, preventing flickering and other issues caused by LED compatibility problems.
⚠️ Important Notes on the ZEN23 → ZEN73 Transition
The transition from the 500 series ZEN23 to the 800 series ZEN73 toggle switch introduces significant improvements in wireless range and installation flexibility, but also changes in wiring design in multi-way installations. While the ZEN23 used traditional 3-way wiring like the ZEN21, the new ZEN73 features Zooz’s patented multi-way wiring method, making it easier to install with standard on/off switches in 3-way setups without modifying the second switch box. However, this also means the ZEN73 cannot be wired as a direct replacement for the ZEN23 in a multi-way installation without adjusting the wiring.
Important: Wiring the ZEN73 like ZEN23 in a multi-way installation will damage the switch on the spot. Please ensure you always follow the appropriate wiring diagram for the model you are installing.
We've linked the new diagrams for the ZEN73 for you below:
Additionally, the 800 series ZEN73 no longer supports ceiling or exhaust fans, which were compatible with the ZEN23. For on/off control of ceiling or exhaust fans, you could use the ZEN71 Switch as long as the fan is rated under 3A and installed in the last five years. If it's over 3A, a fan/light combo controlled from a single switch, or an older type which typically draws more than it's rated for we recommend using the ZEN75 Heavy Duty Switch.If you're looking to keep a toggle-style switch for your fan, then you could install either the ZEN51 Dry Contact Relay for your fan motor, or the ZEN52 Double Relay for your light and fan motor. These devices can be installed behind the switch, or at the light fixture.
These changes for the 800 series ZEN73 provide a more installer-friendly experience for most lighting applications but may require planning for compatibility in existing fan or multi-way installations
⚠️ Important Notes on the ZEN24 → ZEN74 Transition
The upgrade from the 500 series ZEN24 to the 800 series ZEN74 toggle dimmer brings enhanced Z-Wave performance and a more user-friendly installation process, but it also introduces changes to wiring compatibility. The ZEN74 now uses the same patented multi-way wiring design as the ZEN77 Dimmer, which allows it to work more easily with standard mechanical switches in 3-way setups—without needing to access or modify the second switch box. However, this updated wiring method means the ZEN74 cannot be used as a direct drop-in replacement for the ZEN24 in existing installations without rewiring.
Important: Wiring the ZEN74 like ZEN24 in a multi-way installation will damage the switch on the spot. Please ensure you always follow the appropriate wiring diagram for the model you are installing.
We've linked the new diagrams for the ZEN74 for you below:
Additionally, while both models use Triac dimming technology, the ZEN74 has slightly lower maximum load ratings. These updates streamline installation for new projects but may require rewiring in retrofit scenarios
❓ Need Help?
If you're unsure whether your existing wiring or setup is compatible with an 800 Series upgrade, contact our support team or reference your product’s installation instructions for detailed diagrams and guidance.
