This is new construction so wires are not yet run. We will have some soffet plugs outside for christmas lights on one circuit . Also on another circuit, we will have some outdoor plugs we would like to use for lights in the bushes. Another plug in the family room will be used for the tree.
Old school would be to have these circuits connected to switches for manual control. Another step in automation would be to wire these to a timer that would let us have them turn on at approx dusk and off at midnight.
We have a centralite system and will have an automation panel (Omni or ELK). We will also have a PC based master automation system. So I am wondering what would be the best way to tie these plugs in so they can be automated at the right season and have the ability to turn on/off like a switch at other times. We had thought to make them loads on the centralite system, but the electrician says the plugs could carry more current (15A or 20A) than the panel is rated for (8A each, 72A total). I am not really sure that the load from christmas lights would be that high, but I guess something that draws higher current could be plugged in those outlets eventually. I am guessing a relay of some sort would be required.
The LiteJet can take an accessory relay panel but it is low voltage, so I guess this won't work. The Elk expansion module appears to be limited to 10A. Surly this is a fairly standard task to automate, but haven't found anything specifically addressing this.
Any suggestions?
Old school would be to have these circuits connected to switches for manual control. Another step in automation would be to wire these to a timer that would let us have them turn on at approx dusk and off at midnight.
We have a centralite system and will have an automation panel (Omni or ELK). We will also have a PC based master automation system. So I am wondering what would be the best way to tie these plugs in so they can be automated at the right season and have the ability to turn on/off like a switch at other times. We had thought to make them loads on the centralite system, but the electrician says the plugs could carry more current (15A or 20A) than the panel is rated for (8A each, 72A total). I am not really sure that the load from christmas lights would be that high, but I guess something that draws higher current could be plugged in those outlets eventually. I am guessing a relay of some sort would be required.
The LiteJet can take an accessory relay panel but it is low voltage, so I guess this won't work. The Elk expansion module appears to be limited to 10A. Surly this is a fairly standard task to automate, but haven't found anything specifically addressing this.
Any suggestions?