Home Assistant 2021.2 replaces OpenZWave with Z-Wave JS

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A new month brings a fresh update to Home Assistant Core. The latest version, Home Assistant Core 2021.2, introduces a significant change for those using Z-Wave devices: the old OpenZWave 1.4 integration is being replaced by Z-Wave JS. While the spotlight is on the new Z-Wave JS integration, this release also includes additional Home Assistant integrations, enhanced web interface setups, and the removal of an unnecessary service. This article will cover all these updates, not just the Z-Wave changes.

Contents

What's New in Z-Wave JS?

The former Z-Wave integration relied on OpenZWave 1.4 and was part of Home Assistant Core. However, maintaining Z-Wave within the core proved to be too complex and burdensome. Moreover, OpenZWave 1.4, stemming from 2016, has become outdated and is no longer well-supported, necessitating a rewrite of the integration.

Z-Wave JS, first released on August 18, 2019, offers a modern solution. It allows control of your Z-Wave network using Node.js and is written entirely in JavaScript. Impressively, the Home Assistant integration for Z-Wave JS was developed in just one month, showcasing the developers' dedication.

OpenZWave logo featuring the text 'OpenZWave' in a combination of red and black, with a Wi-Fi signal icon integrated into the letter 'Z' to symbolize wireless communication.

How Z-Wave JS Works

Like its predecessor, Z-Wave JS operates independently of Home Assistant. The old integration used MQTT for communication, whereas Z-Wave JS uses a WebSocket connection. A key difference is the need to run a Z-Wave JS server between your Z-Wave USB stick and Home Assistant. Fortunately, a Docker container for the server is available, and if you’re using Home Assistant (not just Home Assistant Core), the server will be automatically installed during integration setup.

Initial reports indicate that Z-Wave JS is faster and more stable than the previous implementation. Some users have noted that their response times have halved compared to OpenZWave.

Z Wave Js Openzwave 02

Transitioning to Z-Wave JS

The old Z-Wave integration is now deprecated. New users should start with the Z-Wave JS integration, while existing users can migrate their systems. There is no immediate need to switch unless you encounter issues with newer devices.

Potential Downsides of Z-Wave JS

Some users are concerned about the complexity of the new setup. Previously, integrating Z-Wave with Home Assistant was straightforward: plug in a Z-Wave USB stick, and the setup was nearly instant. Now, those using just Home Assistant Core may find the process more involved. However, for Home Assistant users, the server setup is handled in the background, making the experience similar to before.

If you choose to stick with the old integration, be aware that you may face difficulties with newer devices. Issues adding devices to your network may stem from them not being supported by OpenZWave.

New Integrations: Monitor Air Quality, Pools, and Power Usage

Alongside the Z-Wave JS integration, Home Assistant Core 2021.2 introduces several new integrations:

Transitioning to the Web Dashboard

Several integrations have been fully transitioned to the web dashboard, eliminating the need for YAML configuration. You can now manage these integrations through the web interface:

A portrait photo oif Liam Alexander Colman, the author, creator, and owner of Home Assistant Guide wearing a suit.

About Liam Alexander Colman

is an experienced Home Assistant user who has been utilizing the platform for a variety of projects over an extended period. His journey began with a Raspberry Pi, which quickly grew to three Raspberry Pis and eventually a full-fledged server. Liam's current operating system of choice is Unraid, with Home Assistant comfortably running in a Docker container.
With a deep understanding of the intricacies of Home Assistant, Liam has an impressive setup, consisting of various Zigbee devices, and seamless integrations with existing products such as his Android TV box. For those interested in learning more about Liam's experience with Home Assistant, he shares his insights on how he first started using the platform and his subsequent journey.

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