X10 Home Automation Wall Switches: The Decorator Collection

In addition to lamp modules and appliance modules, the X10 Home Automation product line includes a wide variety of automated light switches. In this post, we’ll focus on the three wall switches in our decorator lineup.

Decorator Dimmer Switch

The WS12A Decorator Dimmer Switch is a simply but elegantly designed wall switch that coordinates with any standard-sized switch cover. The switch allows for both local and remote dimming and includes a Resume Dimming function that allows you to return to a previous dimming level stored in the module’s memory. The WS12A also includes a Soft Start feature, which allows you to avoid the harshness that accompanies sudden brightness by providing a smooth, 2-second transition from the Off position to the On position. Any X10 Controller can be used to locally or remotely turn lights on or off or dim or brighten them.

Please note that the WS12A is designed to work with incandescent bulbs as well as some types of dimmable alternative lighting, such as dimmable LED or fluorescent lighting; however, the WS13A Relay Switch may be a better choice for use with some types of alternative lighting.

Decorator Wall Switch

The WS13A Decorator Wall Switch appears to be nearly identical to the WS12A Decorator Dimmer Switch; however, the WS13A is only a Relay Switch, designed to work with any CFL, LED, or Halogen bulbs. It can also be used for other switch-operated units, such as large appliances. Controlled by a 20 amp relay, the WS13A Decorator Wall Switch fits with any standard decorator wall plate and can be used to control heavy duty appliances such as 120 volt AC units.

While it operates locally, it can also coordinate with any X10 controllers in order to accommodate remote operation. You can also opt to automate lighting or appliances controlled by the WS13A at preset times, by using the MT13A Mini Timer. While the unit does respond to the “All Lights Off” command, it does not respond to “All Lights On,” which can be especially helpful when leaving your home or retiring for the night.

Decorator Companion Switch

The WS14A Decorator Companion Switch is intended for use as a companion switch, as part of a 3-way or 4-way configuration. As such, it cannot operate independently and requires an X10 Master Switch, such as the WS12A or the WS13A. As a replacement for your existing companion switch, the WS14A allows you to automate appliances or lights that have more than one switch to control them, incorporating those appliances into your X10 home automation system.

The WS14A Decorator Companion Switch is available in either white or ivory paddles. You’ll want to be sure to order a WS12A Decorator Dimmer Switch or WS13A Decorator Wall Switch for the primary switch in your 3-way configuration, as well as an X10 Controller, if you’d like to be able to control the appliance remotely, as well as locally.