Retrofit vs rewiring: the honest comparison for Indian homes

Conventional automation wants a central controller and new cabling. Retrofit works behind the switches you have. Which one is right for you?

Quick answer: Rewired (centralised) automation makes sense for a new build where walls are still open and a false ceiling is planned. Retrofit automation is the right choice for any home that is already finished, rented, or that you want to upgrade in stages, because it needs no civil work and reuses the wiring you already have.

What ‘rewiring’ actually involves

A centralised system routes every light and fan circuit to a controller, usually in a false ceiling or a cabinet. That means new conduits, new cabling from each point, a dedicated panel and an integrator to program it. It is powerful, but it is construction.

What retrofit involves

A retrofit module, like Tixa Retrofit Pro, sits inside the existing switch box behind the plate. It receives the same wires your current switch does and adds radio control. Your appliances, wiring and switch positions stay exactly where they are. A room takes an hour or two.

The comparison

Civil work: rewiring needs it; retrofit needs none.
Time: rewiring is days to weeks; retrofit is hours per room.
Rented homes: rewiring is usually not allowed; retrofit can be removed when you leave.
Phasing: rewiring is all at once; retrofit is room by room.
Failure mode: if a central controller fails, everything stops; retrofit modules fail per room and the physical switch still works.
Cost: rewiring carries labour, cabling and controller cost; retrofit is mostly the modules and panels.

When rewiring is still the better call

Large villas under construction, with dozens of circuits, motorised curtains in every room and a dedicated electrical room, can justify a centralised system. If that is you, plan it with your electrical consultant before the slab is cast.

Frequently asked questions

Is retrofit less reliable than a wired system?

No. Each room runs independently, and the wall panel keeps working as a normal switch even if your internet is down.

Can retrofit control curtains and geysers?

Yes. Curtain and blind controllers, geysers and ACs are all supported through Tixa modules and the app.

Can I move from retrofit to a wired system later?

You can, but most households never need to. Retrofit scales to a full home without a central controller.

Key takeaways

Finished or rented home: retrofit.
New build with open walls and a big budget: consider wiring.
Retrofit lets you start small and keep your switches working as switches.