Solenoids. Low-voltages. Relays. I have no idea what any of this electrical stuff means. But you guys tell me it’s cool. And these vintage lighting systems certainly are something to look at. So here’s Gretchen’s 1961 GE dual-dial 12-station light control panel circa 1961.
Great looking switches like these were installed with the system.
And these.
Gretchen’s home is a “half Jetsons, half Flintstones” Eichler design that is really wonderful. See it on her blog – eichlerific.blogspot.com – and see these lighting system photos and more on her flickr stream. Thanks, Gretchen!!!
David W. Simpson says
Thought you may like a site for the old GE relay switch wall plates.
http://www.kyledesigns.com/product/SPLVA271-LOW-VOLTAGE/Original-Style-One-Low-Voltage-Device-Wall-Switch-Plates.html
Dave
frank says
I’m an electrician trying to find replacement switches like these. Does anyone know where I might find them.
thanks
David W. Simpson says
Frank, if you cannot find the originals, you can try these GE replacements:
http://www.kyledesigns.com/product/RS2-32-GE-SNAP-IN/Ivory-GE-RS232-Low-Voltage-Light-Switch.html
Again, from the same people who bring you the original wall-plates for the switches.
Dave
Chris says
I have this same system and I am looking for the dual dial control panal one of the dials burnt out. Any Idea where I can find replacement parts? Thanks
Frank Befera says
We have a vintage system in a 1962 built split level home in Duluth, MN. We are interested in renovating the master bedroom control unit. Does anyone have contacts or information where parts or a new one can be obtained. It is 3 separate panels (one for each level). Maybe Justin? Please contact me via email asap!
Justin Anderson says
Hello everyone! I am so surprised to find this thread. I am an electrician from Michigan and I have worked on many of these systems in both residential and commercial applications in my area – trust me the technology is still going strong out there! I have connections to get all replacement parts for these systems including switches, relays, and even the RMS4A master controllers. If any of you with these systems are trying to get ahold of replacement or upgrade parts or even just a little advise from an expert in the area, shoot me an email and I would be happy to assist!
Justin Anderson
TheNaughtyDonkey@Gmail.com
Gretchen S says
That’s cool, Matt! We’ve been using a set of extra switches and solenoids that came with the house. Thanks for the model #’s — very helpful. Do you have a monster solenoid panel too?
Matt from NY says
This is great! I can’t believe it’s front page on retrorenovaton! We just moved into a Upstate New York home built in the 70’s that has the GE Low Voltage System! Our switches (GE RFS-6) and master control panels (RMS4A) in the MB and Kitchen look exactly like yours! I’ve found a local electrical parts supplier that has plenty of new old stock components. I plan on keeping this unique system up and running for years.
Tim Leonard says
Matt – I am also from upstate NY with the same GE low voltage system. Where did you find the replacement relay switches? Mine is a RR-5 which I understand is no longer manufactured. Tim
Norman Corcoran says
I too need a few RFS-^ remote switches. I find them listed but not where to order, Is there still a GE supply?. They used to carry these.
normancorcoran@yahoo.com
Duff Thomas says
I have one of these systems as well… initially I was looking all over for “like” replacement relays and found some scattered around in some electrical house dead storage bins for obscene amounts of money; {edited by pam – consult with licensed professionals, please.}
Martha Hulgan says
Matt,
I live in Ala. and have the same exact system. Lighting apparently hit the programmer on the system door. My lighting system will work as long as the door is off the controller box. Electrical company’s in this area are not familiar enough with this type system to help. Can you tell me the name and number of the company you mention. The company who sold the contractor who built this house is no longer in business, so – we are stumped as to what to do. I am hoping I can get some to either rebuild this programmer or replace it. Also, I hate the look of the two button switches – any suggestions. I have been trying to find a digital or other type of switch that can replace what I have, but so far – no long.
I deeply appreciate finding this site – I thought I was the only person in the world with this system – thought they just sold 1 and that was to my husband who loves gadgets.
Gretchen S says
Tut — I’m sorry I didn’t see your earlier questions (comments were awaiting moderation). The two dials each function independently. One side turns things on and one side turns things off. There is no timer function. The solenoid panel (also on the Flickr set) controls all the low-voltage switches and the majority of outlets throughout the house and garage. Except for a few post-construction items and now our current in-progress remodel. You can see more notes in the Flickr set.
Gretchen S says
Thanks Pam — I L-O-V-E your blog. Thank you for posting great resources and information!
I need to clarify that there are actually two separate homes on my Flickr photostream. One is our wacky ranch and the other is the Eichler. They are about 2 miles apart.
Tut says
Whoa! I’d love to see that dual-dial thingy in action. It’s hard to tell if it’s just a 12-way switch or a 12-zone off/on timer (but with only 12 hours? Should be 24). See if they can provide a movie of it being used.