Odd phenomenon
#1
11-30-14, 04:26 PM
Odd phenomenon
I changed all the SPST switches in the house to pilot light type Decora switches so they can be seen at night. In my closet I replaced the bulb with a CFL. Being the darkest room in the world, I noted this morning the CFL was flickering ever so lightly. I thought it odd until I realized it had the lighted switch. I guess the neon is allowing just enough current to flow to excite the CFL.
Any one else notice this phenomenon?
Any one else notice this phenomenon?
#2
11-30-14, 05:13 PM
Member
I would check the tightness of the bulb in the socket. I'm no expert but I don't think the lighted switch should affect the light itself. It is getting it's current from your 120v source not the light nor does the neon glow bulb in the switch leak current to the light. The switch should either supply power to the light completely or not at all.
#3
11-30-14, 05:22 PM
Unless the switch has a neutral that is the expected result. The light pulls just enough power through the bulb for the CFL to try to light.
Assumes light is on when the switch is off.
Assumes light is on when the switch is off.
#4
11-30-14, 06:19 PM
Member
Ray,
Is that typical of lighted switches? What's the point of a switch if it does not totally cut the current to the fixture? Also, is it just the CFL bulb or is it typical regardless of any type of bulb?
Is that typical of lighted switches? What's the point of a switch if it does not totally cut the current to the fixture? Also, is it just the CFL bulb or is it typical regardless of any type of bulb?
#5
11-30-14, 07:03 PM
Super Moderator
I've seen that mentioned here before. As Ray said...the current needed for the switch illumination is just enough.
#6
11-30-14, 07:43 PM
Group Moderator
The light is across the switch contacts so when the switch is open the light is in series with the load. A fairly common and safe idea. Some LED lights also behave erratically on a lighted switch.
