this post was submitted on 26 Oct 2023
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Home Automation

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Home automation is the residential extension of building automation.

It is automation of the home, housework or household activity.

Home automation may include centralized control of lighting, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), appliances, security locks of gates and doors and other systems, to provide improved convenience, comfort, energy efficiency and security.

Warning: Working with electricity can result in injury, property damage, or even death if it is not done properly. Please keep this in mind while assisting others. If you are not sure about what you are doing, hire a licensed professional.

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First i had the Meross 3 way switch then it caught fire and melted half of the switch. Now I have the kasa 3 way switch and it’s feeling a bit warm but not hot like the meross switch.

Should I move the switches to a different location or am I SOL? The two switches are in the same electrical box one for the hall and another for the chandelier.

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[–] MikeP001@alien.top 1 points 1 year ago

Multiple bulb chandeliers can draw a lot of power, be sure to confirm your switch can handle the load. That might have been the issue the first time. Generally slightly over ambient is normal, hot to the touch is not.

[–] wivaca@alien.top 1 points 1 year ago

It sounds like the Kasa being just over ambient may be reasonable. Just for safety sake, what is the bulb wattage in the chandelier and how many of them are there? Are they incandescent lights?

As others have said, always stay within the wattage rating of the switch.

Also, when there are 2 switches in a j-box, both dimming, the switches may be even warmer. Again, never to the point of being uncomfortable or worrisome. If you have options like it being a 3-gang and you can put a non-smart switch between two dimmers that isn't a bad idea though it will probably annoy everyone at first because of the change.

[–] Gevangelist11@alien.top 1 points 1 year ago

I would get a digital amp meter and ensure the current is within 80% of rating. If the switch is rated 15 amps, ensure your only loading it to 12 or less.

[–] Silent-Piccolo@alien.top 1 points 1 year ago

Unfortunately, that is normal. We've had Kasa smart plugs for five years. They get a bit warm when in use. Amazon smart plugs doo as well. I don't know why, but these smart devices get a bit warmer than normal devices when in use. Nothing to be concerned about, Our first smart plug was purchased in October 2018 and its still being used to this day. I just yesterday pulled out another smart plug that hadn't been used in almost a year, and hadn't had a load on it since like 2020. I set it up, and it is now controlling a box fan in our living room. I can't comment on any of the smart switches.