Christmas is coming fast, and I wanted to control all the Christmas lightings from X10. The receptacle outside the house uses GFC. I understand X10 doesn't make one but I was just wondering if a plug-in appliance module can do the job?

The weather in where I live can get very cold in the winter time (-20C). I don't know if an appliance module can handle such a low temperature. If it can handle it, I can go to Home Depot and get a big enclosure to cover the appliance module as well as the whole GFC so it's insulated.

Thanks

Simon

is there an on/off switch controling this outlet?

Mike,

No, the receptacle outside of the house does not have any on/off switch to control it from the indoor. Thanks

Simon

If the outlet outside is ground fault protected, I'd just go ahead and try an appliance module. The worst thing that could happen is water getting in and shorting it. That's what breakers and GFC are for. I've noticed that when plugged in most modules are warm (check yours), and this self generated heat would probably prevent any freezing. I'd probably try dipping the whole thing in that rubber compound you can dip tool handles in, leaving it's plug uncoated and making sure none got into it's outlet by putting one of those childproof outlet cap thingies in it. If your outlet isn't protected by a roof overhang perhaps building a little "hood" for it would be prudent too. OK, that's my 45 cents. What? I only get 2 cents? OK, Nevermind ;->.

Dave

Thanks for the responses. The only thing I'm afraid is the temperature. Here it can easily go below -20C. If the appliance module does freeze up, what would happen? I hope it just stop working, and that's it.

Home Depot has some electrical wall box that is big enough to house the appliance module and I can pretty much seal it nice.

Simon