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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Tampa, Fl
    Posts
    155

    Default Mystery Black Box

    Does anybody know what this small black box is attached to the condensing unit. It is about the size of a pack of cards/cigarettes. It has two red l.e.d. lights on it.

    I don't know if this had anything to do with the device, but the unit would turn on/off on it's own throughout the inspection even though the thermostat was set to it's lowest setting.

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  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Tampa, Fl
    Posts
    155

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    Sorry, here is the photo

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  3. #3
    David Bell's Avatar
    David Bell Guest

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    Need to know what it is wired to. Contactor? Pressure switch?


  4. #4
    Join Date
    Jul 2008
    Location
    Utah
    Posts
    390

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    Some electrical utilities companyies have a program that permits them to cycle residential condensing units on and off to shave demand peaks off of the grid. In Utah-in my area the electrical company offers a one time "gift", like $25 or something to permit them to install this on your condensing unit.

    In fact the State legislators have been working on a program to force home owners to do this.


  5. #5
    Join Date
    Oct 2003
    Location
    Rockwall Texas
    Posts
    4,521

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    Never have seen one myself. Just curious if it could be some type of alarm device in case someone was attempting to steal the unit. I've heard of such devices but have yet to come across one in the field. I understand that one of the larger alarm protection service companies have such a device.

    Just a thought.

    rick


  6. #6
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Tampa, Fl
    Posts
    155

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    Yes, part of the alarm system was an afterthought I had when I left the inspection. I also wondered if it was shutting down the unit anytime a door was open for any length of time...there was an alarm at the house and the keypad did beep as is typical when doors and windows were opened. I have seen such devices on hotel room doors/windows, but wouldn't think anyone would put it on their own home.


  7. #7
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Location
    St Paul, MN
    Posts
    1,630

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    MinnesotaHomeInspectors.com
    Minnesota Home Inspectors LLC
    ASHI #242887 mnradontesting.com

  8. #8
    Chuck Lambert's Avatar
    Chuck Lambert Guest

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    Quote Originally Posted by Rod Butler View Post
    Some electrical utilities companyies have a program that permits them to cycle residential condensing units on and off to shave demand peaks off of the grid. In Utah-in my area the electrical company offers a one time "gift", like $25 or something to permit them to install this on your condensing unit.

    In fact the State legislators have been working on a program to force home owners to do this.
    The ones I see around here from the utility companies are much more sofisticated looking and are actually attached to the unit. The power conduit enters and exits the unit so the utility company can shut it down at any time.

    Chuck


  9. #9
    Join Date
    Aug 2008
    Location
    richmond b.c
    Posts
    10

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    maybe its a lightning surge protector?

    looks like the ones you mount on a electrical panel


  10. #10
    David Bell's Avatar
    David Bell Guest

    Default Re: Mystery Black Box

    Having the 2 red lights on it I'd have to think it's a tattle tale device that could monitor system pressure and notify a tech to intermittant problems. It could be wired to the high and low pressure switches.


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