Override/Bypass Lutron Rania dimmers via z-wave relay switch

Other Devices & Integrations Lighting & Load Control
1

Hi,

I have an existing Lutron Rania dimmer that controls a set of lights.
I would like to be able to turn that same circuit on (full on) from my controller according to some rules (e.g. when the alarm goes off, triggered by some sensors).
Is this possible?
Basically, I guess I’m wondering if I can wire a relay - such as the Fibaro relay switch - in parallel with the Rania.
Do you think this would work without interfering badly with the Rania?

(I know I could replace the Rania with a z-wave dimmer module and get even more functionality, but I’d rather not do that for other reasons, mainly aesthetic.)

Thank you!
Alberto.

2

I’m tempted to say that this should work, provided the Line used for the Fibaro is part of the same circuit as the Line used for the dimmer. But, I’m not familiar enough with the Rania to say if line voltage on the load side would affect the dimmer. I think it would be OK, but I would not choose to do it this way.

It never ceases to amaze me, when people come up with yet another way to connect such a simple circuit, that I had never thought of.

3

Is there room behind the switch (or by the light) to fit a z-wave module with a changeover contact. You could then take the dimmer switched supply to the normally closed contact and a live wire to the normally open. The common goes to the load. This way you do not put the livd back to the dimmer.
That said, I agree with z-waver that it should not hurt anyway but if you are buying a z-wave unit anyway then why not get the changeover type.

4

There is actually room, so I could do that - do you have any suggestions for [Euro] z-wave relays with a changeover contact? I am learning a lot but not familiar with any yet.

Thank you!

5

Having just looked at various models currently available i cannot actually see a true changeover type available. There are plenty of two relay modules and at one time it was possible to configure some so that only one relay operated at a time but I cannot see that option available on the latest models (not something i have needed recently). Perhaps it was not a common requirement and got dropped?

Options

  1. Give Vesternet (UK)(on the web) a call and ask if they have something like this available.
  2. Check with Rania that putting 230v live to both terminals is okay. Voltage difference =0v so it should be fine.
  3. Just go for it anyway and trust that it will be okay.
  4. Use a contact off z-wave relay to operate a cheap 230v relay with c/o contacts. (Worst option in my opinion).
6

Thank you, Slartibartfast!
I called Lutron (your option #2), who confirmed that sending line voltage on the load side too won’t affect the Rania.
In fact, I just realized they also show how to wire a regular 2-way switch in parallel with the Rania masters and accessories, in their wiring documentation.
So… I’ll give it a try, which basically means I end up in your scenario #3 :slight_smile:
I’ll let you know how it goes.