Using Insteon switch to control a half switch outlet

[daxiang28]

I've been fairly impressed with the Insteon switches that I've installed so far. Has anybody installed these onto a half switched outlet? I understand how it works on the outlet side, but now I have two hot wires coming into the switch (white/black wires). Do I wire nut both of these and then pull a true neutral from another switch in the box for the insteon communication? It's a little different than the line/load config of a light, so just wanted to get some expert directions.

Thanks,
Steve

 

[gatchel]

Smarthome makes an Insteon controlled outlet with a special "key" (Magnet) that allows only certain devices to be plugged in to half of the Insteon duplex outlet. I believe the reason why they make this is because controlling a standard outlet with an unknown load plugged in would not meet code if there were a dimmer or outher electronic switch in line. You may want to look into this more as I am not an expert or an electrician however I did find this elsewhere:




404.14 (E) Dimmer Switches.

General-use dimmer switches shall be used only to control permanently installed incandescent luminaires (lighting fixtures) unless listed for the control of other loads and installed accordingly.


There are also, apparently, special keyed outlets so that you have to rewire the plug on the fixture. I haven't seen them though.



As always there are other factors that may be involved. Check with your local AHJ to see what is code in your area.

 

[daxiang28]

Thanks Gatchel,

I was planning on putting an insteon relay switch just so that my scenes can control the on/off state of table lamps. The switch is already wired for a half switch, but I see what you're saying... Plug a laptop charger into the controlled outlet and dim it by accident. I'll look around for those keyed outlets.

Steve

 

[BLH]

A relay switch is OK.
Some homes do have a mechanical switch controlling an outlet.
A dimmer controlling an outlet is a bad idea.

Does the mechanical switch you now have control the half outlet in question?

I would think you coud rewire the black and white to Line and Neutral for a SwitchLinc Relay. Cap off the red load wire and have it linked an OutletLinc Relay where the original outlet is.