Load control switch
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A load control switch is a remotely controlled relay that is placed on home appliances which use a lot of electricity, such as air conditioner units and electric water heaters.
A load control switch consist of a communication module and the relay switch. A load control switch operates similar to a pager, receiving signals from the power company to turn off power to the appliance during times of peak electrical demand. Usually, the device has a timer that will automatically reset the switch back on after a preset time.
Most load control switches have only one-way communication, receiving signals from the power company. Some are now two-way, which helps the power company locate faulty load control switches. Many electric cooperatives offer free installation of load control switches to their members, sometimes with incentives.
There is no practical way for electric companies to store electricity for use during peak demand. Load control switches can be a powerful tool to prevent brown-outs and black-outs. It allows the electric companies to respond to emergencies without shutting off all power to customers. They also reduce costs for electric companies by reducing the amount of expensive electricity they need to buy from other companies during peak demand.
