Since launching our EdgeConnect™ screwless termination receptacles, we’ve continued to roll out additional wiring device solutions with this patented termination method. Energy efficiency remains a growing trend across America with increasing investments aimed at reducing energy consumption in new buildings and renovation projects. The California Building Standards Code created Title 24 to require energy efficiency standards across the state. The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) is another code developed to set minimum efficiency standards for new construction. As codes and standards for energy efficiency continue to evolve across the country, we remain committed to building out a product offering that meets your needs.
Understanding energy efficiency regulations
Energy efficiency applies to newly constructed projects as well as additions and alterations of both residential and commercial buildings. Codes are updated every few years with revisions focused on efficiency goals and implementing new technologies or processes.
Standards apply to both residential and commercial buildings. While the requirements primarily target new construction, there are implications for existing buildings as well. Renovations and major retrofits often need to comply with the latest standards, meaning older buildings may require updates to their electrical systems to meet current regulations.
Many of these environmental standards require that for every standard receptacle used on a job site, a controlled counterpart must be installed within six feet. They also stipulate that at least 50% of receptacles are required to turn off automatically. A simple way to ensure you comply is to purchase all the receptacles for the building as ½ controlled. This means one outlet of the two outlets on the duplex receptacle can be controlled while the other remains energized.
Controlled receptacles maximizing energy efficiency
Energy efficiency standards like Title 24 are paving the way for controlled receptacles to reduce unnecessary electricity consumption. When equipment remains plugged into controlled receptacles, a continual load (or vampire load), is drawn even when devices are powered down.
Our controlled receptacles, now featuring patented EdgeConnect technology, are designed to meet and exceed efficiency requirements. With these receptacles, builders and property managers can be confident they are meeting their energy saving goals, while also adhering to national regulations.
We offer controlled receptacles including full and ½ controlled devices for 15A and 20A, standard and tamper resistant solutions with screw termination, SNAPConnect modular terminations, and EdgeConnect screwless termination options.
Controlled receptacles allow users and facility managers to maintain continuous power to the outlets that need it, while allowing others to shut off for optimal energy and cost savings. The ½ devices ensure that one outlet remains controlled while the other offers continuous power, aligning perfectly with energy efficiency requirements.
These receptacles meet additional standards like the National Electrical Code (NEC) and American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 90.1 which requires controlled receptacles in certain areas to promote energy management and safety. The user can schedule the receptacles to automatically switch off when the space is unoccupied or at certain times of day. The controlled marking on the receptacle must be visibly marked to differentiate them from uncontrolled receptacles.
Learn more about EdgeConnect™ technology
EdgeConnect™ technology features patented spring terminals that improve installation time by 80% and eliminate the need for screwdrivers or additional tools. Simply insert the wire and press the color-coded plungers for a consistent, reliable connection. The spring clamp applies continuous pressure that only strengthens with time, never allowing for any strand relaxation in the termination.
Now that you know more about how controlled receptacles can help you save energy, see how EdgeConnect meets ever-changing requirements and explore the entire product line today.
