For those with DIY fans & X10

[Matt L.]

Last summer, I constructed a DIY fan bank using computer fans. This was a wonderful and affordable method for cooling my tank, and it has saved me a lot of energy. There is just one problem: the transformer I use interferes with the X10 signal. Even a signal noise isolator does not work.

Does anyone have a transformer they've used with success?

If not, is there such a thing as a 120V solenoid, whereby power from one circuit could be shut off and on by an X10 signal sent to another circuit?

Please pardon my electrical ignorance in terminology

Matt

 

[Jennifer]

A heavy duty relay would do they trick. It must have a coil operating voltage of 120v ac but I think it is possible. Would placing the transformer for the fans on a different circuit work.

 

[Nonmouse]

Have you tried changing the "house code" on the X10 system? IIRC, that can sometimes help with interference from noisy electronics. You might also check out the X10 Community Troubleshooting Forum...

 

[Matt L.]

I did try different channels but to no avail. The idea of a solenoid seems promissing, but I can't figure out what kind to get.

Matt