Fibaro switch stuck with LED load

Other Devices & Integrations Lighting & Load Control
#1

Hello guys

I have read on the forum that it is not the first time this happens.
I have a 200 Watt leds connected to 1 double switch but I am suffering from stucking!
From the manual switch or from vera the the leds would not turn off/on but if i hit the fibaro it will work like for couple of times and the problem happens again

I have used an external relay with 5 Ampere capacity to control the LEDs. For 2 days i think everything is fine. Do you think this is solved for ever using this relay?

#2

It sounds as though the Fibaro’s relay contact s getting welded by switching a highly-reactive current. This can often be fixed by adding a contact arc-suppressor (aka Snubber) across the load to prevent the high-voltage spike during switch-off.

Your external relay may be fine if it is rated for reactive loads. Otherwise it may also get welded unless you fit a Snubber across the load.

You can probably find a contact arc-suppressor/Snubber in your local electronics store. Look for one with a 100nF capacitor and a 47 or 100 Ohm resistor. It must be rated for use on your supply voltage. Proper ones have UL markings.

#3

Since it is hard to find such a device where i live :frowning: i was trying to find something makes me SAFE
I found this in the market

What do you think?
Need your exp

Thanx

#4

This relay appears to be suitable only for resistive loads. There is no rating in the data sheet for inductive loads. With a 12 amp rating, the bigger contacts are perhaps less likely to weld but it could still happen.

There are relays that are designed to switch inductive loads - like motors. They use different contact metals and stronger springs. Unfortunately a relay coil is also an inductive load so, if you use a big relay, you may still need to fit a contact arc-suppressor…

#5

Thank you

I will try to buy one online

Thanx alot :smiley:

#6

Home you dont mind me saying but 200W of Led seems like quit a lot. :slight_smile:
I have had quite a bit of trouble with them due to a high inrush current, in particular the low voltage versions.

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#7
I have had quite a bit of trouble with them due to a high inrush current, in particular the low voltage versions.

Yes that is the problem with the type of converter that uses a switching circuit in place of a large transformer. When connected, they draw a large current to charge-up the reservoir capacitor. This can also cause a relay contact to weld. They should have internal current limiting to protect their own rectifier and avoid damage to the supply-side switch!

Did you need to use an external surge limiter to prevent damage to your switch?

#8

[quote=“Yarryman”]Home you dont mind me saying but 200W of Led seems like quit a lot. :slight_smile:
I have had quite a bit of trouble with them due to a high inrush current, in particular the low voltage versions.

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Yes. This is why a 65w equivalent led bulb that draws steady state 12-14w cannot be considered a 12-14w load on a switch or dimmer. The ripple current in the bulb front end is higher than a 12-14W average would suggest. So you end up only being able to drive 8 of these bulbs with a 600W dimmer, not the 40+ bulbs a simple average wattage would suggest.

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#9

i have the same problem but this time the relay is already welded and wouldnt unweld…is there a way i can open the switch and change this relay? or another way that i can fix this?

#10
...is there a way i can open the switch and change this relay?

Most things are possible if you try hard enough. You may have a problem sourcing an identical relay, though. Unless you are experienced with repairing devices like this, I would not recommend this approach. Any modification could result in an electrical hazard or increased fire-risk.

I suggest you contact your supplier to see if you can return the module for a replacement under warranty.