After struggling with the HM-LC-SW2-FM switch for my LED exterior lighting, I found a reliable solution that I’d like to share. Initially, I faced issues with the switch failing due to the high inrush current of the LED lights. The problem arose because the switch wasn’t designed to handle the surge when the lights turned on, leading to frequent failures.
My Journey to a Solution
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Understanding the Problem: I realized that LED lights have a much higher inrush current than their rated power. This meant that my 200W LED setup was causing a surge that the switch couldn’t handle.
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Initial Attempts: I tried using an inrush current limiter, which worked for a while but eventually failed due to the frequent surges, especially since the lights were also used for security alerts.
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The Successful Solution: I switched to using a relay-based system. This involved installing a relay that the HM-LC-SW2-FM controls. The relay, specifically the Finder 22.32.0.230.4320, was designed to handle the inrush currents without issues.
Why This Works
- Durability: The relay has held up well over time, even with frequent use for both lighting and security notifications.
- Ease of Use: The setup is straightforward and doesn’t require complex wiring, making it accessible for most DIY projects.
- Cost-Effective: While there was an initial investment, the long-term reliability has been worth it.
Long-Term Success
This solution has been running smoothly for over a year. It’s been tested through various weather conditions and frequent use, consistently performing without any hiccups. I’m now confident that my exterior lighting is reliable and robust.
If you’re dealing with similar issues, especially with LED lights and inrush currents, I highly recommend considering a relay-based system. It’s a simple yet effective solution that ensures your smart home devices work seamlessly together.
Happy tinkering! 