Sensors
We are all familiar with motion sensors in office and commercial environments but did you know the same technology can also be installed in the home? Sensors provide automatic switching of lighting and motor loads such as exhaust fans. Occupancy sensors (Auto-ON) provide the convenience of hands-free switching when entering and exiting a room which can prove very useful in rooms where a resident might have their hands full like a laundry room or garage. Vacancy sensors (Manual-ON) are practical in high traffic areas such as hallways, children's rooms and bathrooms. They provide maximum savings by requiring users to manually turn on the light, eliminating false-on triggers, but still provide the convenience and assurance of lights automatically switching off. Actual savings from sensors vary depending on usage patterns and occupant habits. However, energy savings, convenience, reduced frequency of bulb replacement and ease of installation are all compelling reasons to replace standard switches with sensors.
Smart Sensing
With ambient light sensitivity, Leviton Occupancy Sensors are "smart" sensors. They detect when there is ample natural light in a room and will not automatically switch lights ON if illumination is not needed. This ability, along with passive infrared (PIR) technology, makes these devices "smart" and capable of enhancing life at home through built-in technology that requires no programming.
Installation and Placement Considerations
Leviton sensors primarily use passive infrared technology (heat) to detect movement so there are a number of factors that must be considered when choosing where to install them: - They require an unobstructed line-of-sight for accurate detection-any furniture or obstructions that block the sensor's view will prevent occupant's movement from being detected - Size and shape of the area needing coverage should be in line with the range of the sensor selected - Locate a clear line-of-view of the area to be covered, perpendicular to the likely movement - Type (minor or major motion) of activity in a space - Mounting height of the sensor and obstacles within the space - Airflow that can falsely register as motion - Location that is not close to HVAC ducts, IR cameras, incandescent light cans and heat sources
Humidity Sensor and Fan Control
Another type of sensor is the Humidity Sensor and Fan Control. This specialty sensor detects excess humidity in a room and automatically activates the ventilation fan to reduce excess condensation* which helps to lessen the appearance of mold and mildew and provides a more comfortable and healthy environment. It can replace a single pole switch and is ideal for bathrooms, basements, home spas and laundry rooms. The Humidity Sensor and Fan Control uses state-of-the-art technology to continuously monitor the air in a room and automatically turn on the ventilation fan when it detects a rise in humidity. The device features easily adjustable settings for sensor sensitivity, humidity level and automatic time out which can be set to meet the specific ventilation needs of a room. Regular use of this sensor helps reduce energy usage by automatically operating the fan only when needed, reducing continuous or unnecessary use.
Installation Recommendations
When deciding to install a Humidity Sensor and Fan Control in a bathroom application to control an exhaust fan there are a number of factors to take into consideration. - If the bathroom is a large space, the device should be placed within close proximity to the shower/tub (steam/vapor source) to most effectively measure/monitor for excess humidity - Ceiling heights in excess of 8 feet may affect the sensor's ability to properly detect shower/tub steam - The sensor requires a closed room to properly operate - Opening a door during operation may temporarily interrupt the operating cycle - Changes in season may affect operation of the sensor due to ambient air temperature and humidity
* The Leviton Humidity Sensor and Fan Control will not independently eliminate condensation. It must be used with a properly sized and rated ventilation fan in an enclosed space.
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