Old GE Low Voltage Light Controls

[Chief919]

So the home I just bought has the old original 1947 GE low voltage lighting controls that use 24v at the switches to run solenoids that control the lighting.

The system for its age is in pretty good shape. I am torn between replacing it all with 110v wiring all the way to the switches or just repairing the few issues with it. I can see the advantages of both, and keeping it will definitely save a lot of money and time and let me move on to other projects that need addressing. The more I learn about the system the more I lean toward keeping it.

The only issue I see right now is that the parts are not as easily available locally, but I think if I set a few solenoids, switches and a transformer on the parts shelf that would handle anything that comes up.

Does anyone have any experience with these systems that can give me advice or tell me keeping it is either workable or insane?

 

[justsam]

My uncle built a custom, high end home in the 50's and had this system. I have not been in the home for years so no good data on the operation today.

I think if YOU have a good understanding of the system, the switches, latching relays, control transformers, etc. I would tend to keep it, but I am a DIY type. I would stay on top of it, so that that other family members do not learn to hate it.

Pick up spares, or figure alternatives to the components. There have been other inquires about these systems on GJ so you might check archives.

 

[Chief919]

My uncle built a custom, high end home in the 50's and had this system. I have not been in the home for years so no good data on the operation today.

I think if YOU have a good understanding of the system, the switches, latching relays, control transformers, etc. I would tend to keep it, but I am a DIY type. I would stay on top of it, so that that other family members do not learn to hate it.

Pick up spares, or figure alternatives to the components. There have been other inquires about these systems on GJ so you might check archives.

I am actually more familiar with low voltage stuff from decades of working on vehicles and equipment, and looking at how the system works it is really simple so understanding it is pretty straightforward for me.

 

[matt_i]

It would probably be a good idea long-term to modernize this, but obviously you can buy yourself quite a bit of time with a few spares & repairs. In my mind its more about what you have the time and inclination to do. Something tells me its going to be a lot of wiring-changing to tear out wiring that supports energizing low-amp coils over to the full-amperage switchgear of current times, working behind wall covering, fishing thru wall cavities to attic or basement...its definitely going to be work.

 

[alfredeneuman]

The GE Relay of today is the same as in 1947 and is readily available. You might be able to get better prices than these:
http://www.kele.com/lighting-controls/rr-7,-rr-9.aspx

It would cost a small fortune to rewire all the lights for 120 volt switching.

 

[Milton Shaw]

Newtone also made a system like this, my daughter in Little Rock used to live in a house with Newtone switches and relays. Was nice when it worked but a lot of work to fix when something quit.

 

[tfi racing]

Here you go-have some real fun with your system!

http://www.gelighting.com/LightingW...nd-Application-Presentation_tcm201-119011.pdf

 

[Two Sheds]

The system is still in production, though it is used mainly in industrial and commercial applications. Spare parts are expensive, though you can find them cheaply on Ebay. Search for RR7 to find relays.

There is a Yahoo group to help with troubleshooting. They have an archive of documentation available for download.
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/gelv/info

I like the system so well I installed a new system in my house. But be aware that most residential electricians don't have a clue about it. Commercial/industrial electricians work on it all the time.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

your other option is to switch to a newer home automation system utilizing the existing low voltage wiring

 

[nadogail]

I have worked on these systems, send me a round trip bus ticket and I will be glad to give you a hand.

 

[Stuff]

The only reason to replace would be if the spouse doesn't like the look of the switches. Even so it would be a lot of work to swap out unless you are remodeling down to the studs.

 

[yeldogt]

My old place at the beach has it -- the parts are available ..... you can get yours to work. I would never rip it out -- the only disadvantage is the lack of dimming. We removed it from the kitchen when we gutted it -- but the all the other is still used