Overheating WS467 Wall Switch

[Edward222]

I just installed a wall switch (WS467) for my outside flood lights.  After about an hour I checked it and the face plate was extremely hot so I disconnected it.  It worked great but I was afraid it could cause a fire.  Has anyone else had this problem?  Perhaps I overloaded it.  I know it says 500 watts max, but I am not sure what the watts are on the two front flood lights.  I just would hate for a fire to start in the wall.

Any thoughts or comment out there? 

Edward Mcintire

[JeffVolp]

The amount of heat generated is a function of the load and how well the heat can get out of the electrical box.  Since it is getting very hot, be certain your load isn't over 500 watts.  Even at 500 watts, the switch will have to dissipate about 5 watts.  A metal switch cover will help conduct some of the heat out of the box if it is plastic.

FYI, the round screw-in floodlight bulbs are normally 150 watts max, but the large rectangular halogen lights can be 300 or even 500 watts each.

Jeff

[Edward222]

Thank you Jeff

[TakeTheActive]

I just installed a wall switch (WS467) for my outside flood lights.  After about an hour I checked it and the face plate was extremely hot so I disconnected it...

...Any thoughts or comment out there?

What is the TOTAL PRINTED/STATED WATTS of *ALL* of the floodlights that you are controlling with this one (500W MAX) WS467 switch?

[Edward222]

There are four flood lights on this one switch, each most likely 150 watts.

[JeffVolp]

There are four flood lights on this one switch, each most likely 150 watts.

That would certainly explain why it's running hot. 

Years ago the standard floodlight was 150W, but now you can find them in lower wattages.  Just reduce the wattage of the bulbs to get the total comfortably under 500W.  The switch will still run warm, but at least you won't be overstressing it.

Jeff