Light switches with built-in timer (30 seconds or so)

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GregV

928 posts

Ultimate Geek

#150263 16-Jul-2014 19:28

Not looking for full home automation, or wifi lights, so figured this was a better forum than Gadgets etc.

I'm looking for a light switch to replace a standard on-off switch, but will only stay in the ON state for a short duration (30 seconds or so). Basically enough time for a child to transit a hallway, and not need to be reminded to turn the light off after them!! Ideally the default action would be a short-term ON, but with an option to remain ON.

Had a quick search, but can only find full electronic or 24/7 mechanical programmable ones.

One more thing, as this is a hallway light, there is a switch at each end of the hallway, so that might introduce a challenge, depending on how they are wired. (And yes I plan to get an electrician to carry out any electrical work)

DarthKermit

5346 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

#1090217 16-Jul-2014 19:34

PDL timer module

One of these might suit your requirements. We have one in our bathroom to run the extractor fan for five minutes.

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GregV

928 posts

Ultimate Geek

#1090223 16-Jul-2014 19:44

Exactly what I'm looking for. Thanks!

nigelj

856 posts

Ultimate Geek

#1090236 16-Jul-2014 20:14

GregV: Not looking for full home automation, or wifi lights, so figured this was a better forum than Gadgets etc.

I'm looking for a light switch to replace a standard on-off switch, but will only stay in the ON state for a short duration (30 seconds or so). Basically enough time for a child to transit a hallway, and not need to be reminded to turn the light off after them!! Ideally the default action would be a short-term ON, but with an option to remain ON.

Had a quick search, but can only find full electronic or 24/7 mechanical programmable ones.

One more thing, as this is a hallway light, there is a switch at each end of the hallway, so that might introduce a challenge, depending on how they are wired. (And yes I plan to get an electrician to carry out any electrical work)

Actually, thats a nifty idea for bedrooms too and DarthKermit's suggestion of the 648TM is custom enough to do everything required to give people enough time to turn on bedside lights etc. Very nifty. (Has to be for $51 (Electrical Direct) though)

gzt

17160 posts

Uber Geek

Lifetime subscriber

#1090237 16-Jul-2014 20:16

^that really is ideal. Intelliswitch do one with an led switch finder with minimum time 15 min.

NZ developed, engineer responds to email. Might be open to suggestions for modification.

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RunningMan

8963 posts

Uber Geek

#1090247 16-Jul-2014 20:29

PDL also do a PIR module that fits in a faceplate so wouldn't even need to turn the switch on

aucklander

477 posts

Ultimate Geek

#1091053 17-Jul-2014 21:44

Hi,
it sounds like you are after a timer?
Have a look at this: http://www.pdl.co.nz/product-details.aspx?rcat=products&catid=1222&id=1841
I have two installed at home, one on a toilet extract (timer set at 3 min) and one on a hot air transfer kit (set at 2hrs). It works like this: press the button, the load is ON indefinetely. Press button again the timer function is activated. There are three modes, what I described is one of them, which suits my application.

You may also try and have a look at Clipsal series 319 of Pneumatic Timers. I would go into a trade store and ask to have a look at it. You just press a large button which gradually comes back. When it does, it will switch the lights off. The speed is adjustable.

I hope this helps.

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GregV

928 posts

Ultimate Geek

#1091103 17-Jul-2014 23:01

Hi aucklander,
Yup, DarthKermit pointed me at the same PDL module. Very nice idea, especially with the different modes to choose from on install.

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graemeh

2078 posts

Uber Geek

#1091213 18-Jul-2014 10:26

GregV: Yup, DarthKermit pointed me at the same PDL module. Very nice idea, especially with the different modes to choose from on install.

We have two of these PDL modules for bathroom fans. They are brilliant and should do exactly what you want (just check the minimum on time).

n4

959 posts

Ultimate Geek

#1091216 18-Jul-2014 10:31

I used one of these in our hallway. No mess, no fuss.

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