Remote light switch

[polygonum]

I need to replace our exterior light - and want to end up with something that works the way I want.

First off - we need two lights - one for round by the bins and one for near the back door. That means one light will be fed from shed (which has mains), the other from indoors (actually, indoors also has mains :-) ).

A standard PIR results in too many unwanted illuminations. And that will worsen with the bin light. So am thinking of using a simple remote control. Something small enough to keep in pocket or handbag. And I shall be changing over to LED lamps so only low power switching.

And it would be good to be able to choose "switch on forever" occasionally, but most often "switch on for 2 minutes". I don't think I need anything much else - but life does have a habit of throwing up surprises.

Going round the many remote switching systems, I note that many are ludicrously expensive, or do not have key-chain switches, or they are too large, or ... And I am getting tired of looking. So thought I'd ask for suggestions.

I could use either 13-amp sockets or wired-in - a system that allows for either would be good. And I might at some point wish to add third light at the front - so maybe four channels would be a sensible minimum - though the two at the back could switch together happily enough.

[Harry Bloomfield]

on 11/10/2012, polygonum supposed :

We have a set of four plug in wireless (radio) remote controls. The remote control has separate on and off buttons for each of the four, plus a master on and off buttons. The system works fine.

Separate on / off buttons are essential, rather than a single sequential on - off button, unless you can see what you are switching - which in our case we cannot.

It lacks the on for 2 minutes function and the keyfob sized remote, but cost sub £18 at Aldi several years ago.

[Mike Barnes]

polygonum :

Not trying to be funny, but have you considered using an LED head torch when going to the bins? Much simpler.

[polygonum]

Yes - but no. Athough described as "the bins" it is actually our drive. So a light is useful for other things as well. And we would need two head torches - at least - to be sure of having one in the right place.

[S Viemeister]

That's what we do.

[rbel]

When I started looking for remote lighting switches a couple of weeks ago I found this range of relatively inexpensive kit at TLC - I am not aware how effective and reliable it is.

[polygonum]

> --

Thanks - looks like it would do what I really need. But am somewhat floored by the price - for the cost of the key fob I can buy a set of four switched 13A socket/adaptors and a single remote! Actually, make that five!

[John Rumm]

>>>>> --

There is allot to be said for well aimed and setup standalone PIRs. You can cut the false triggers down to very occasional, and they are far cheaper than remote options.

Another option might be outdoor switches... perhaps momentary action ones you position in a convenient place, and give them a push when passing when you need light, and they stay on for a couple of mins and then go out.