Difference between revisions of "Incandescent Lights Only"
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| − | The main reason why the X10 Wall Switch Module cannot be used to control a fluorescent fixture is because it is a two-wire device and is hence wired in series with the load. The switch itself needs to stay powered up | + | The main reason why the X10 Wall Switch Module cannot be used to control a fluorescent fixture is because it is a two-wire device and is hence wired in series with the load. The switch itself needs to stay powered up. Because it does not have a neutral connected to it, it gets a small neutral feed through the bulb even when it is off. |
| − | The control signals, which are transmitted onto your house wiring, have to pass through the incandescent lamp (the load). | + | The control signals, which are transmitted onto your house wiring, have to pass through the incandescent lamp (the load). A fluorescent light contains a ballast which acts as a block to the X10 signals and makes it impossible to control the switch remotely. Therefore, a compact fluorescent light does not permit a clean neutral connection through it back to the switch. Also, this ballast is an inductive load. Controlling such a load could permanently damage the Wall Switch Module. This is why the WS467 should '''NOT EVER''' be used to control any kind of appliance, like a ceiling fan. A Wall Switch Module for controlling fluorescent fixtures, the [http://www.activehomepro.com/accessories/acc_wallswitch_ws13a.html WS13A], is available from [http://www.x10.com www.x10.com]. |
| − | X10 | + | X10 also has a version for controlling ceiling fans and dimming inductive loads, the[http://www.activehomepro.com/accessories/pro/xpdi3_iw_wa1_s.html XPDI3]. Note however, that the XPDI3 and WS13A are commercial grade switches that require a neutral connection. There often is no neutral wire available at the location of the switch you are replacing. Therefore, we recommend that these switches should only be installed by a qualified electrician. |
Revision as of 21:42, 14 February 2008
Question
Why can’t I use the X10 WS467 Wall Switch Module to control a fluorescent light?
Answer
The main reason why the X10 Wall Switch Module cannot be used to control a fluorescent fixture is because it is a two-wire device and is hence wired in series with the load. The switch itself needs to stay powered up. Because it does not have a neutral connected to it, it gets a small neutral feed through the bulb even when it is off.
The control signals, which are transmitted onto your house wiring, have to pass through the incandescent lamp (the load). A fluorescent light contains a ballast which acts as a block to the X10 signals and makes it impossible to control the switch remotely. Therefore, a compact fluorescent light does not permit a clean neutral connection through it back to the switch. Also, this ballast is an inductive load. Controlling such a load could permanently damage the Wall Switch Module. This is why the WS467 should NOT EVER be used to control any kind of appliance, like a ceiling fan. A Wall Switch Module for controlling fluorescent fixtures, the WS13A, is available from www.x10.com.
X10 also has a version for controlling ceiling fans and dimming inductive loads, theXPDI3. Note however, that the XPDI3 and WS13A are commercial grade switches that require a neutral connection. There often is no neutral wire available at the location of the switch you are replacing. Therefore, we recommend that these switches should only be installed by a qualified electrician.