Are there any X-10 modules that are weather resistant?
I use AHP and need to control something from an outside outlet.
Thanks
Doug
We use a "wire-in" appliance module inside the transformer case for our exterior low-voltage lighting. It's been working fine for a couple of years. There are hinged covers available for outdoor receptacles that are large enough to close over a standard plug-in module to protect it from the weather. Try your local Lowes or HomeDepot.
For a cleaner appearance, you can replace the exterior GFI outlet with a X10 switched receptacle, and install a GFI circuit breaker for that circuit.
Jeff
Quote from: dlittle on January 03, 2009, 03:45:34 PM
Are there any X-10 modules that are weather resistant? I use AHP and need to control something from an outside outlet.
Black & Decker used to have the "freewire" line on X10.... which included the
Outdoor Module (http://www.smarthome.com/2000BE/Black-Decker-500-Watt-Outdoor-Lamp-Module-FWLROD/p.aspx).
Although no-longer available.... this is the stuff to search EBay for.
Not sure if they can still be found. X10 made home control devices for Black and Decker. The modules where X10 compatible.
The Black and Decker FWLROD is a weather resistant module. Looks like a 2' extension cord with a box in the middle of it. No dials to set. Programmed like a LM15A Socket Rocket. Power on and within 30 seconds send the address you want from a controller three times and it will then be programmed.
You would still have to plug it into an outdoor outlet.
One of my local surplus stores had them for $5.00 ea awhile back. Along with most of the B&D Line.
Quote from: Brian H on January 03, 2009, 06:50:41 PM
One of my local surplus stores had them for $5.00 ea awhile back. Along with most of the B&D Line.
I picked-up a couple from SmartHome.... wish I'd got more.
Thanks all.
Looks like I may just switch out the outlet to an X-10 style.
Quote from: dlittle on January 04, 2009, 11:23:52 AM
...Looks like I may just switch out the outlet to an X-10 style.
That's what I did for my front porch. In my case I was already down line from a GFI outlet. If you're not, be sure and take Jeff's advice and put in a GFI breaker. i.e. It's ok to replace a GFI outlet with an X10 one but it's
not ok to remove GFI protection. If your home is really old enough to predate GFI wiring code, this is a good time to update. (I'm not sure when the code went into effect but it's been many years now.)
Do not wire an outdoor outlet without GFI protection.
I believe the GFI requirement was introduced back in the early 80's. Our last house was built back in 85, and had a single GFI receptacle up in the master bedroom that powered GFI-protected receptacles for the entire house, including basement and exterior receptacles (not the kitchen). As you can imagine, that became a problem as hairdryer wattages increased. It also resulted in the loss of a freezer worth of food while we were away on vacation. Ah, the unintended consequences of regulations... Before the GFI requirement, those receptacles would have all been on independent local circuits. Of course, as GFI prices came down, it became cost effective to do local control.
Jeff