Browse our large selection of low-voltage wall switch plates, remote control relays, switches, solenoids, brackets, mounting straps to find original GE, Remcon or Touch-Plate equipment compatible with your new or existing low voltage wiring system. Wall switchplates for older GE & Bryant systems are offered in old style, new style (snap-in), RFS, and bracket mount series.
Why Choose a Low Voltage Electrical System (or Keep the One You Have)?
If you have one of the high-end low voltage electrical systems what were installed in midcentury homes, congratulations. While removing a low voltage lighting system and replacing it with standard lighting would be very expensive, these systems actually have a number of advantages:
- Energy Savings - Because they use less current, you'll save money on your electrical bills.
- Insurance Discounts - Safer to use because of the lower voltages, you may qualify for discounted rates on your homeowners insurance.
- Convenience - Low voltage systems can be set up to allow you to control all of your home's lighting from one location, for example in the kitchen or the master bedroom.
- Flexibility - Low voltage switches can be wired in parallel to create 3-way switches wherever you need them for no addition cost for new or specialized switches.
Vintage low voltage wiring systems installed throughout the U.S. during the 1950's, 1960's and 1970's were created with modern living in mind, giving homeowners more flexibility and control over the functionality of their home. Inspired by industrial systems that relied on relay switches to control motors, lights and other industrial equipment, vintage remote control wiring systems used relays to switch a current; these relays, in turn, were controlled by small light switches operating at a low voltage comparable to that of a doorbell. Because the relays only required a brief impulse to switch the current, the light switches were momentary (the low volt current only flowed for as long as the light switch was pressed) and this allowed for safer electrical wiring as well as less energy consumption. In addition, each momentary switch could be wired to perform the same function as a single pole switch, 3-way switch or 4-way switch, so one could operate a single light from multiple remote locations without complicated wiring.