Evolve LRM-AS and Dimmable CFLs

Other Devices & Integrations Lighting & Load Control
1

Hello All,

I’m a new VeraLite owner and currently have only a single Z-wave device (a kwikset lock).

So the next thing I want to add are Z-wave switches.

I’ve been through the forums, the FAQs, and the HomeSeer comparison matrix, and I think I have settled in on the Evolve switches/dimmers as being the most likely choice for me.

The Homeseer matrix http://store.homeseer.com/store/HomeSeer-Z-Wave-Dimming-Wall-Switch-Comparison-W16C64.aspx says the Evolve LRM-AS can control dimmable CFL loads.

Based on my reading, because these require the neutral wire, they route the load that powers the switch back on the neutral instead of having to route it through the lights. So basically if the switch is off, then there is no current through the CFLs and no chance of buzzing.

But I’m new to this so I wanted to confirm that.

Has anybody used the Evolve LRM-AS with dimmable CFLs and do they make any noise when the switch is off? What about under full load?

I guess I have the same question about the LSM-15 (plain on-off switch). Any buzzing with CFLs when the switch is off?

The dimmer is going to power about 8 dimmable CFLs. The switch will handle 3 non-dimmable CFLs.

Thanks,

Doug

2

Yes, no buzzing when the switch is Off. Off is Off.

Yes, no buzzing from the switch when the switch is at 100%.

I have seen individual CFL bulbs buzz, but not usually. I suspect that they are not really dimmable, despite labeling.

3

Excellent. Thanks!

Doug

4

I have had dim able CFL on a Leviton dimmer with pretty mixed results. They did dim but when using multiple CFL they all dimmed differently. Also the usual problem of CFL kicked in - it took a while to get bright.

In the end I swapped them for LED - much better now.

5

@viennaxmas - I also have gone LED rather than CFLs. But, the cost of LEDs is still quite high compared to CFLs and even more so compared to incandescent bulbs.

6

I’m going to eventually switch to LEDs, once the price comes down a bit more. (And my CFLs start to die.)