X10 Community Forum

🔌General Home Automation => Automating Your House => Troubleshooting Automation Problems => Topic started by: jeffdharlan on January 22, 2011, 10:35:06 AM

Title: Ws12a controlling an outlet
Post by: jeffdharlan on January 22, 2011, 10:35:06 AM

I did some searching, but could not find an answer on this.  If I have a bathroom switch that controls a light fixture and also an outlet, will the WS12a be able to control both correctly.  I am not sure with the dimming functionality how that will affect the outlet.  The outlet will not be used much, but it is still a concern for me.  Is the WS12a not the proper switch for this situation?

Title: Re: Ws12a controlling an outlet
Post by: Dan Lawrence on January 22, 2011, 10:39:06 AM

Here's the specs of the WS12A: www.x10.com/automation/x10_ws12a.htm.  Since it is a dimming switch it will affect the outlet.   

Title: Re: Ws12a controlling an outlet
Post by: Brian H on January 22, 2011, 11:30:57 AM

No.
I believe it is against the electrical code to use a dimmer on an outlet.
Too easy to use a incorrect type load in the outlet. Like a motor or non dimming bulb like a CFL or fluorescent light.

The WS12A steals power through the load so if the fixture does not have an incandescent type bulb in it. That would be another reason it would not work.