Modular Switch and Outlet System

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Fri Apr 01, 2011 10:43 pm

Has anyone ever seen, used or heard anything about these before? It's a modular wallplate system that accomodates switches, outlets and connectivity modules that you assemble to suite your application. They are carried in a couple big box stores like Lowes and Home Depot though not much selection in stock. I am redoing electrical and these look like a great fit for my needs. They cost much less than thier "marine" counterparts of similar design. Any thoughts?

http://www.euroloftinc.com/home.html

rossjo · Post by **rossjo** » Sat Apr 02, 2011 10:48 am

Haven't seen them - just AC?

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Sat Apr 02, 2011 2:27 pm

Haven't seen any specs on them yet Ross, but I suspect AC only given that thier web site seems to be centered around residential.

captainmaniac · Post by **captainmaniac** » Sat Apr 02, 2011 3:02 pm

Not sure if you are specifically looking for the space-age look of this product, or just looking for the modular approach. I have seen stuff at Home Depot where the faceplate has several openings in it (anywhere from 1 to either 6 I think) and you can snap in module(s) for whatever purpose you have (cable, phone, ethernet, etc). Don't know if I have seen any plug in modules for it for light switch or electrical outlet though... just the utility stuff.

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Sat Apr 02, 2011 3:29 pm

Captainmaniac, I know the connectivity product you're reffering to. This stuff is different. You can mix and match a maximum of three items; connectivity, switches and outlets. Most H Depot stores may only carry the wall plates, though the H Depot web site lists all the items you can buy through them on line. I recall a switch module for example is under $8 CAN. I like the set up because I want to incorporate more on one plate rather than cut another hole.

koviak · Post by **koviak** » Sat Apr 02, 2011 4:14 pm

Just remember cubic inch capacity of the outlet box, don't overstuff it. Count all current carrying conducters as one, grounds with pigtail are one also. devices are 2 cu.in. Boxes are labeled with fill capacity, I have seen some nightmares before.
Dennis (Master electrician)

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Sat Apr 02, 2011 10:50 pm

Thanks Dennis. I am planning on replacing current boxes with deep plastic ones for that reason.

Dennis, if these don't mention a DC rating, can they safely handle a lower DC load that is less than the stated 15 amp AC? ie would they handle 10 amp DC OK? I know DC has arcing issues to consider. Any thoughts?

koviak · Post by **koviak** » Sun Apr 03, 2011 7:40 am

Short answer is yes, but contacts may wear quicker from arcing as these are not snap action switches. If load is low enough this would take a good while to occur. Hope you are not combining 12volt and 120volt circuits in the same box as this is very dangerous.

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Sun Apr 03, 2011 8:54 am

No no no. Deffinately keeping both electrical systems separate. Nice to know though that I can use the same switches and keep everything looking uniform. Thanks for the input Dennis.