Switchlinc outside?

[timster]

I've got a weather resistant outlet box outside about 3 inches above the ground. Although the cover plate has a seal, the rust on the 5 year old standard switch makes me think moisture had gotten inside. I'd like to replace the old manual switch with a switchlinc. Do you think it will hold up against the moisture?

 

Thanks.

[LeeG]

No better than the standard outlet did. Maybe not as long with the electronics due to the high moisture level that must exist so close to the ground.

 

I have had an Icon switch installed in a water tight enclosure with a foam sealed hinged cover for many years. However, it is mounted a good 6' above water level (mounted on a dock) with good air circulation around the entire box.

[Xathros]

I have 2 Toggleinc switches installed in my barn. While they are inside, it is not climate controlled and they are exposed to the full range of temperature and humidity swings here in New England. I have seen condensation on the metal box that the switches are installed in on a few occasions. After 2 years in there they still work as well as they did on day one.

 

You might consider a switch cover like one of these:

http://www.zorotools.com/g/00010990/k-G0817476?utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Google_Shopping_Feed&kw={keyword}&gclid=CKK167KelLkCFcme4AodRmQAyw

 

-Xathros

[oberkc]

My working theory is that "sealed" covers keep moisture and humidity IN. When I install outside, I make no attempt to seal anything. Rather, I do my best to keep direct exposure to rain minimized and, should moisture make its way past this first line of defense, a drain path out.

[apostolakisl]

My working theory is that "sealed" covers keep moisture and humidity IN. When I install outside, I make no attempt to seal anything. Rather, I do my best to keep direct exposure to rain minimized and, should moisture make its way past this first line of defense, a drain path out.

 

I'm in this camp. I would describe it as "sheltered".

 

I have switchlincs for 4 years now in a third garage which is unheated/uncooled and no problems. Of course I have also had a number of switchlincs go bad that lived their whole lives at 72 plus/minus 2. I have never let any of them get wet.

[arw01]

I wonder if a micro-module with the existing or changed to momentary switches might be a better solution long term? I have not bought one yet to examine how tight the case looks to be, but they are so small, that my thinking is, less surface area means less moisture condensation!

 

Alan