Trouble Shooting Guide

1. Quality / Performance

Given the time and cost associated with a failed product, Quality is our Number 1 Goal. Over 30% of manufacturing time is spent on Quality Controls steps to assure that you have the most reliable photocontrol available. For over 50 years, Quality and Performance has been our central mission.

2. Good Information Saves Time and Money

Fact — Almost 100% of all field issues can be resolved simply by following our Trouble Shooting/Testing Guide. Over half (1/2) of our returns are classified as “Fully Operational”. This is a strong indicator that the user incorrectly installed the photocontrol. The testing procedures found in this guide are the same as those we perform at the factory for returns.

Properly installed and tested, your Precision photocontrol should perform flawlessly for years. As you read the installation instructions, here are five (5) basic areas to consider when ordering our photocontrols.

During Installation:

  • Proper Voltage
  • Correct Wiring
  • Know the total lighting load (wattage and how many lighting fixtures) are to be switched
  • Directional Orientation
  • Understanding the Time Delay feature

Installation Procedure:

A. Always turn off the power at the fuse or breaker box before installing a photocontrol.

B. Proper Voltage — Make sure that your line voltage matches with the model you purchased. With the exception of our dual rated (105-285V) models, a 120-volt model will not work on 240 volts and will, in fact, be destroyed. Using a 240V control on 120 volts, the unit will not work but will not be destroyed.

C. Lighting Load — Most of our best selling models are rated at 1000VA or 1800VA. The VA rating is equivalent to the same number of incandescent watts or a “tungsten load”. For an inductive or ballast load (HID or High Pressure Sodium), the power factor (ballast load) must be taken into account to determine if the right photocontrol is being used. Generally speaking, we recommend not exceeding 1000 watts HID when using an 1800VA model or a 400-watt ceiling for 1000VA models.

D. Directional Orientation — For best results be sure to position the photocontrol “window” away from obstructions and in the direction of the most natural light. Mounting under eaves or in front of trees will cause the photocontrol to turn on earlier in the day. Make sure that your mounting is also directed away from any artificial light sources that can interfere with normal operation at night (cycling on and off).

E. Understanding Time Delay Feature — With the exception of our electronic, locking type series (5 second response time), most of our models operate with an inherent time delay. When the photocontrol is powered up, the light or lights will stay on initially for approximately 60 seconds. Once the light turns off, cover the entire photocontrol housing with a glove or some other dark covering. After 60 to 90 seconds, the light should turn back on.

3. Troubleshooting Guide

Before referring to this guide, please be sure you have read all operational material literature and have installed the unit according to directions. Also, make sure you are using the correct model for the correct application.

Very important. Make sure you have followed the installation procedures. If you need to call for additional technical help, we will inquire if this testing was done. If you would still like to return the unit, even after consulting our guide, please refer to our Return Procedure as outlined in the Warranty.

Of the six possible wiring combinations for the direct wire-in control, only one is correct. Listed (to the right) are those combinations and the results.

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4. Wiring Diagrams

Always verify the incoming hot, load and neutral wires. Color codes cannot always be counted on as uniform or accurate, particularly on an old installation. If you’re replacing an older photocontrol, make sure to note which were the hot, load and neutral wires. The color codes on the photocontrols are correct. Most problems can be solved by referring to our trouble shooting guide link. If you still need help, call customer service weekdays 9AM to 5PM at 1-800-775-5862

5. Warranty

Precision Multiple Controls, Inc. products are guaranteed to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year (or longer—warranty periods listed below) from the date of shipment. Precision will replace, without charge, any unit which fails because of defective workmanship or materials during the guarantee period and which is returned to Precision, transportation prepaid. The guarantee does not apply to (a) damage caused by accident, units struck by lightning, abuse or mishandling, dropping; (b) units which have been subject to unauthorized repair, opened, taken apart; (c) units not used in accordance with directions, such as on an incorrect power supply.

Precision is not responsible for any other loss or damage which may arise through use of this product. The guarantee expressly does not include any other costs such as the cost of removal of defective parts, installation, labor or consequential damages of any kind. Precision Multiple Controls assumes no responsibility for proper selection and installation of its products.

The foregoing is in lieu of all other guarantees expressed, implied, or statutory, and Precision Multiple Controls neither assumes nor authorizes any person to assume for it any other obligation or liability in connection with said products.

Model Warranty Period
A-105 through A-1068W
 5 Years
T-15 through T-368 5 Years
ST-15 through ST-19 5 Years
ET-15 through ET-168 5 Years
LM-2275 through LM-7275 2 Years
EC series 2 Years
ESC series 2 Years
P-2275 through 102FAA 1 Year
8660 through 8694 1 Year
“CD” & “SD” Time Switches 1 Year
Permatrol® Multiple Relays 1 Year
Spring Wound Timers 1 Year
HPS Starter 1 Year
LCA & LCS
 1 Year

In order to reduce time and warranty cost of returning products outside the warranty period, we ask that you check the label on the control indicating the start of the warranty period. Below is shown where the mark can be found.

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