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Energy saving
brig001
Posts: 398 Forumite
I have used a signal from our house alarm panel to power down appliances which are not required when we are in bed or out of the house. With a couple of PCs, a DVD player, TV, internet router, printer, monitor etc. all connected to this system, I am currently switching off over 60 Watts during the night and when we are at school or work. Since, on average, we are "out" more than "in", and setting the alarm is rarely forgotten, the savings will soon mount up.
The signal used was SW+ which I believe is available on most panels, but is not ideal since it switches when the system is armed and not in alarm condition. I have connected SW+ (via a transistor) to a small relay in the panel, which then sends switched 12 V to the rest of the house. I have used spare cores in CAT V Ethernet cable to feed this signal to other rooms. In each room (lounge and study so far), I have fitted a 12 V relay inline with a four way extension lead to switch power to the appliances.
Just an idea for the more advanced DIY'ers.
Note: If you are not an electrician, please ask one first. I can accept no responsibililty for death/injury from following these instructions.
The signal used was SW+ which I believe is available on most panels, but is not ideal since it switches when the system is armed and not in alarm condition. I have connected SW+ (via a transistor) to a small relay in the panel, which then sends switched 12 V to the rest of the house. I have used spare cores in CAT V Ethernet cable to feed this signal to other rooms. In each room (lounge and study so far), I have fitted a 12 V relay inline with a four way extension lead to switch power to the appliances.
Just an idea for the more advanced DIY'ers.
Note: If you are not an electrician, please ask one first. I can accept no responsibililty for death/injury from following these instructions.
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