511 Variac Dimmers NOT UL Approved?

realkuhl · Post by **realkuhl** » Fri Jul 22, 2005 8:42 am

I just purchased 3 of the Staco Variable Transformers for my basement studio. I purchased the model #511 (http://variac.com/staco_variable_transformer_500_s.htm) from ISE in Ohio. They arrived and look awesome (bigger and heavier than I expected). I just got word back from my electrician that these are not UL approved - so I can't install them in the studio because a permit will be denied if I use them. I believe for 300.00 I can put them thru some sort of UL testing which will then grant me approval. Is this the only way or are is there another option.

Also, it appears that these generate an awful lot of heat - I have to have boxes made that are quite a bit larger for the heat to dissapate.

This is becoming a huge amount of work and money to get lights that DIM properly so any suggestions would be greatly approved !

Regards,
John Lehmkuhl

knightfly · Post by **knightfly** » Fri Jul 22, 2005 8:58 am

According to the pdf

http://instrumentation-central.com/Stac ... engine.pdf

They are CSA listed; some companies refuse to go through the testing for both ratings, as it's more expensive for mass production (I've heard, don't quote me on this) - I'd check with another electrician to make sure CSA isn't acceptable for code before getting too excited.

Have you checked with the supplier on this? Can't believe they've not run into this before, you can't be the first to buy these...

I'm on a machine that doesn't have all my reference SW on it right now, I'll try to do a code check (CSA vs. UL) in the next day or two for you... Steve

realkuhl · Post by **realkuhl** » Sat Jul 23, 2005 3:25 am

Steve, we talked directly to the sales guy and he said they are not tested for UL or anything else. They are basically supposed to be purchased as parts to be used in a product that will THEN be UL tested (more like OEM purchases) - he knew what I planned to use it for (incandescent lighting) but didn't mention the UL or the temperature problems.

I read the PDF over and over that you linked me to - but I can't see anywhere that is says the 511 is a CSA tested product. I really appreciate your help and I'm surprised that others have not had this problem as well.

I'm not giving up, but this is more work that I expected to have dimmers in my room.

Regards,
John Lehmkuhl

knightfly wrote:According to the pdf

http://instrumentation-central.com/Stac ... engine.pdf

They are CSA listed; some companies refuse to go through the testing for both ratings, as it's more expensive for mass production (I've heard, don't quote me on this) - I'd check with another electrician to make sure CSA isn't acceptable for code before getting too excited.

Have you checked with the supplier on this? Can't believe they've not run into this before, you can't be the first to buy these...

Steve

Post by **Aaronw** » Sat Jul 23, 2005 7:51 am

Good ole Portland. Just listed as the 3rd overpriced city to live in for 2005.

I know...originally from Vancouver. And heading that way in August for a visit.

UL required huh. Bummer. Yeah, the codes requirements up there are getting just as bad CA.

Here's my suggestion. Put in a cheap switch that's UL listed, have it inspected, then change it. (I know I shouldn't give such suggestions, but sometimes, you just have to "work around" the politics.)

Or, if you're lucky, he likes whisky.

knightfly · Post by **knightfly** » Sat Jul 23, 2005 9:18 am

John, from the second page of the pdf - Steve

(Granted, this isn't your model; so probably doesn't apply - I didn't notice that the first time through)