TrickleStar power strips are designed to improve energy efficiency by automatically cutting power to devices when they’re not in use. The system features a “control” outlet and “switched” outlets. When a device plugged into the control outlet is turned on, the switched outlets receive power. However, sometimes things may not work as intended, leaving you with switched outlets that don’t seem to turn on.
Don’t despair! Here’s a comprehensive guide to diagnose and resolve common issues with TrickleStar switched outlets.
Step 1: Understanding the Basics
- Control vs. Switched:Ensure you’re plugging the device you want to control other items (like your TV) into the ‘Control’ outlet. The devices you want to power on/off automatically (e.g., sound system, game consoles) should be plugged into the ‘Switched’ outlets.
- Power Thresholds:TrickleStar power strips often have different sensitivity settings (usually Low, Medium, High). These settings determine how much power your ‘control’ device needs to draw to trigger the ‘switched’ outlets.
Step 2: Troubleshooting Checklist
- Power to Control Device:
- Double-check that the device plugged into the “Control” outlet is actually turned on and drawing power. If it’s in standby or off, it won’t activate the switched outlets.
- Threshold Setting:
- Experiment:Try changing the sensitivity threshold to a lower setting. Start with the ‘Low’ setting to see if it makes a difference.
- Modern Devices:Many modern devices are designed to be energy-efficient, so they may not draw enough power even when turned on to trigger the switched outlets, especially at higher sensitivity settings.
- Consult the Manual:Check the TrickleStar manual for your specific model for instructions on changing the sensitivity setting.
- Plugs and Connections:
- Ensure all devices are securely plugged into their respective outlets. Loose connections can prevent power from reaching devices.
- Overloaded Switched Outlets:
- Check if you’ve exceeded the wattage capacity of the switched outlets. Reference the TrickleStar specifications for your model to determine the maximum load it can handle.
- Power Strip Functionality:
- If possible, try plugging a simpler device like a lamp into the ‘Control’ outlet. If the lamp turns on/off with the control device, then the power strip itself is likely functioning correctly.
- Faulty Outlet:
- Try plugging your devices directly into a regular wall outlet to test if the devices themselves are causing the issue. If your devices work elsewhere, it may indicate a problem with the TrickleStar outlet.
Advanced Troubleshooting
- Older Control Devices:
- Some older electronics might draw a continuous low level of power even when technically ‘off’. This might keep the switched outlets powered constantly. Consider using a smart plug on the ‘control’ device to ensure it’s fully powered down when not in use.
- Alternative Control Strategy:
- If your devices aren’t compatible with TrickleStar’s system, explore smart plugs or power strips with remote control or scheduling functionality. These alternatives offer more granular control over your devices’ power states.
Seeking Further Help
- TrickleStar Support:Consult the TrickleStar website (https://tricklestar.com/) for FAQs, manuals, and support options. They may have specific troubleshooting guides for your model.
- Community Forums:Seek help from fellow TrickleStar users on online forums or communities. Someone may have encountered a similar problem and found a solution.
Important Reminders
- Safety:Always unplug the TrickleStar power strip before inspecting cables or troubleshooting connections.
- Compatibility:Not all devices are ideal for use with a setup like TrickleStar. Do your research to ensure compatibility before purchasing.
By following these troubleshooting steps systematically, you should be able to identify the root cause of your TrickleStar switched outlets not working and get them functioning as intended.