Need Recommendation: 220w (US) on/off connected switch

#1

I just installed a GE DuraStation EVSE Level 2 charger.

When not in use it draws 2w (AC) constanty. That adds up.
I wanted an intelligent switch/relay toturn it on/off.

I know the GE Zwave module is out there. It’s also expensive.
Is there something (relay module) I can control via a Particle Photon/Arduino that’s not going to overheat from long periods of being on with current draw? The unit is a 40a draw unit. So any relay would have to handle that…

I realize the photon will have a draw as well, but it would be negligible in comparison, and I’d also put a light sensor, motion sensor and temp probe on the board as well, so it’d give me some use in the garage while now adding some smartness to the charger.

#2

I’d suggest posting on the ST forum where JD might have some ideas… I know he’s recommended high load devices in the past but can’t find his posts (he has soooo many!)

#3

One method might just be to use a dumb 40A relay toggled by a cheap 110v smartswitch.

#4

I am also considering setting up a 220V relay that can be switched by low voltage DC (e.g. 5V USB). In my case it would be used to switch off my well pump in case of a leak before the automated shutoff valve. It would be best to wire the load normally-closed and only cut the power when DC voltage is applied in case the controller stops working or has to be serviced.

Come to think of it, I wish I could do something like this on the oven as well since it somehow manages to use 16W 24/7 just to run the digital clock. Can’t think of a way at this point to allow it to be turned back on that wouldn’t suck. Will probably get a new oven before I ever care to deal with that :slight_smile:

#5

There are plenty of relays that can do what you are looking for.
My issue is high amp draw. I need one designed for continuous high amp load. I’m thinking an air conditioning contact breaker.

#6

http://www.ezzwave.com/direct-wire-indoor-outdoor-smart-switch/

#7

How much are you willing to spend to avoid the 2W draw though? It would take about 40 years to break even for me.

#8

Hahahaha
Right!!

The main reason i want it is so i can write schedules in WC, and throw up a button to press to override schedule.

This is a dumb charger, so I’d have to program the car to charge at off peak times rather than use the program i created already to control the plug. Formerly i used the level1 (110) Charger that came with the car with an iris plug.

You plug the car in and forget about it. WC scheduled the plug. If you needed it to charge regardless because full batt was necessary regardless of electric rate, there was an iris button next to the door. Press it and it only would “turn on” the plug.

I’d like to replicate that functionality. If i can get some relay and quack a photon to it then i can get ST to talk to it.

Or like Robin’s idea if there’s a 110switched relay that handles 220 load, it’s a piece of cake with a zwave switch