Solution - Electrical Load Control

Beyond the predefined solution categories, any electrical device that can be switched with simple ON/OFF logic can be integrated. The PIERRE controller sends a 12V DC control signal to a relay or contactor, and that relay or contactor switches the power supply or the control circuit of the connected device.

The Integration Rule

If the device can be controlled by switching a relay or contactor, and that relay or contactor can be activated by a 12V DC signal from the controller, the device can be added to the system. The device itself does not have to be a smart device.

Configuring an Unlisted Device

• Where there is no dedicated device type in the PIERRE Partner application, configure the output as a standard ON/OFF device — for example as a light output. The control logic is the same.
• Rename the output to match the actual device.
• Change the image or icon of the I/O point so it appears correctly for the end user in the Smart PIERRE application.

Examples

• Coffee machine — switched on in the morning from the app or from a wake-up scene.
• Electric kettle — simple power control, where this is suitable and safe for the device type.
• Microwave oven — power enable and disable, so the system controls when the appliance is available.
• Bathroom mirror demister — switched with bathroom use or as part of a bathroom scene.
• Electric fireplace — switched from the app or from an evening scene.
• Aroma diffuser — activated by schedule, scene or user command.
• Aquarium equipment — lights, filters or air pumps, where they are suitable for ON/OFF control, following schedules or automation rules.

Technical Notes

• Check that the appliance tolerates having its power cut. An appliance that needs to be shut down in sequence, or that loses its settings, is not a candidate.
• Never switch power to an appliance that must not run unattended, and never to one with a heating element that has no independent thermal protection.
• Size the relay or contactor for the appliance's inrush current, not only its rated current.
• Where the load exceeds the relay rating, switch through a contactor: the relay drives the coil, the contactor carries the load.