I’m trying to figure out what I need to control my pool light. The light control box states that it is x10. Do I need to purchase a bridge of some sort? Can I just change the light switch to a z-wave switch? I I currently have a Vera 3 that is running the most current update.
Thanks in advance!
In order to run X10 on the Vera you will ether need an X10 computer interface like this http://www.thehomeautomationstore.com/sw31a-cm15a.html and the Mochad plugin, or you could use an Insteon PLM plugged in to the Vera. (A PLM can be found here : http://www.smarthome.com/2413U/PowerLinc-Modem-INSTEON-USB-Interface-Dual-Band/p.aspx ) If you go the PLM route, make sure you are buying a PowerLinc-Modem, and not a PowerLinc-Controller. They are two completely different beasts.
As for replacing it with something Z-wave, that is going to depend on how it is wired up. You mention a “light control box”, but later ask if you can just change the light switch to a z-wave switch. If the only thing that controls the light is a light switch that happens to be x10 compatible, then you should be able to replace it with any other kind of switch. If there is a special kind of control box involved, you will probably need to talk to an electrician or someone that knows more about pools than I do.
If it is just a light switch, you will probably want to make sure it is a relay (normal on/off, non-dimmer) switch.
@fba: thanks for the detailed response! “the box” is the controller I have inside the house. When I open the actual timer unit to the pool pump it also has a push button type light switch inside that only controls the light. That’s what I was hoping I could change for one that is zwave compatible.
Does the push button light switch look anything like this? WS467 Wall Switch Module – X10.COM
It is basically a rectangular button with a little switch under it. If so, then you are dealing with a pretty stock standard light switch. You should be able to replace a switch like that with a Z-wave switch.
If you wanted to be 100% sure before you spend the money to get a Z-wave switch, you could run down to the hardware store and buy a regular old light switch for a couple of bucks. If you can install that and control the light, then you most likely can use a Z-wave switch.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a pool (too cold here), so I can only provide general information. Also, if you are not comfortable playing with electricity you will probably want to hire an electrician to do it for you. If you are comfortable with electricity, make sure to shut the power off before you do the work or else your wife will mock you for months. (Not that this has happened to me or anything… ;D
Thanks again fba!! That IS the exact switch, and I’ll be switching it out this weekend!!
PS: I live in Vegas where pools are pretty much a necessity!