Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will my Universal Control Device save energy?
A. Yes, the UCD does save energy. With lighting representing 20% - 30% of an average electric bill, reducing lighting costs is one of the simplest and fastest ways to save on your electric bill.
Q. What types of mixed loads can I use on my UCD?
A. We do not recommend mixing load types as this may interfere with optimum dimming range for each load type.
Q. Are there benefits to dimming my lights?
A. There are numerous benefits. The UCD allows you to create just the right amount of light you want for a particular room, activity or ambiance. What is unique to the UCD is the technology to control various types of light sources. Rather than a standard dimmer which works best on incandescent lighting, the UCD allows you to control more than one type of lighting.
Q. How difficult will it be for me to install my UCD?
A. Installation of the UCD is simplified because it replaces your current standard switch. This installation does not require any special wiring and can be installed in less than 20 minutes.
Q. What type of light bulbs can I use with my UCD?
A. The UCD is compatible with compact fluorescent lamps, linear fluorescent lights with most standard electronic or magnetic ballasts, cold cathode compact fluorescent lamps, halogen lamps, and incandescent lamps.
Q. What is the benefit of a UCD over a regular, standard dimmer?
A. Most dimmers are not recommended for use with CFL’s. The UCD is compatible with various lighting sources. In addition, the UCD outperforms most conventional dimmers in dimming range ability.
Q. What is the biggest benefit to being able to dim my CFL’s?
A. While CFL’s provide significant cost savings over incandescent lighting, they can create a harsh atmosphere where the lighting is too bright for comfort. The UCD allows individual preferences and softening of CFL output.
Q. Does the ground wire need to be connected?
A. For the Universal Control Device the ground must be connected for the dimmer to operate.
Q. Will the dimmer get warm and is this a safety concern?
A. Solid state dimmers generate heat during normal operation. The dimmer may feel warm to the touch which is expected and completely safe. Dimmers should not be used on loads exceeding their recommended wattage.
Q. Are there any bulbs the UCD may not dim?
A. Some lamps may contain components that could interfere with dimming. If you have a particular question regarding a certain lamp, contact technical assistance.
Q. Why does my light fixture make a buzzing sound?
A. The fixture making a buzzing sound is usually created by the ballast in mid-level dimming range. To remedy this problem a lamp debuzzing coil may be required.
Q. What would cause my lights to flicker or change intensity?
A. You may be experiencing cross talk between dimmers that are sharing the same neutral wire. Voltage spikes occur during operation of solid state dimmers and these spikes may feed back to the dimmers by the common neutral wire. To avoid such cross talk run separate neutrals for each phase.
Q. How much will I save on my electric bill after I install a power factor correction unit?
A. The amount saved will vary depending on your inductive load amount, the age of the motors in your appliances/equipment and the price per kilowatt you pay for electricity. In general, savings of 8% - 25% are realized.
Q. Where do I install the power factor correction unit?
A. The unit can be installed indoors or outdoors beside your circuit panel or meter. The unit should be installed by a licensed, qualified electrician.
Q. What does the water treatment protection product do?
A. The system increases the efficiency by eliminating clogs and mineral buildup.
Q. How much will I save after installing the water treatment system?
A. The amount you will save will depend on your water usage, the amount of buildup that is removed, and by prolonging your appliance/equipment life.
Q. How difficult is it to install the insulation?
A. It is quite easy. The insulation barrier gets installed over your existing insulation to prevent unwanted air loss.
Q. How much will I save after installing the insulation?
A. Your savings will depend on several factors such as average temperatures for your region, the age of your home or business, and where you install the insulation.