Frequently Asked Questions
– General Questions –
What does Powerform Controls do?
Powerform Controls designs and manufactures electronic motor control solutions for single-phase induction motors, specialising in speed controllers, run-on timers, current sensors, and custom electronic solutions. We’ve been serving the Australian air conditioning and air movement industries since 1971.
Where are your products manufactured?
All our products are designed and manufactured right here in Sydney, Australia at our facility in Artarmon, NSW. This allows us to maintain strict quality control, provide fast local support, and quickly adapt to customer needs.
Who uses your products?
Our products are used by electricians, HVAC contractors, building managers, apartment developers, and homeowners across Australia. We serve residential, commercial, hospitality, and industrial applications. Many of Australia’s leading air conditioning and air movement companies trust our products for their projects.
Do you sell directly to the public or only through distributors?
We sell both direct to consumers and through our network of distributors. Whether you’re a homeowner needing one controller or a contractor requiring bulk orders for a large project, we’re here to help.
– Product Selection –
How do I know which speed controller I need?
Speed controllers should be sized based on your motor’s FLA (Full Load Amps) rating, which you’ll find on the motor nameplate. Our controllers include a built-in margin for starting current. If you’re unsure, contact our technical team with your motor details and we’ll recommend the right product for your application.
What’s the difference between a Speed Limiter and a Speed Controller?
Speed Limiters are “set and forget” units designed for air balancing, typically adjusted once during commissioning and mounted on the fan unit itself. Speed Controllers allow end users to adjust fan speed themselves (like kitchen exhaust fans), with installer-set minimum and maximum limits to prevent the fan being turned down too low.
Can your controllers work with three-phase motors?
No, our speed controllers are designed specifically for single-phase induction motors. For three-phase applications, you’ll need a three-phase VFD (Variable Frequency Drive).
What is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD)?
Our VSDs take a 0-10V or 4-20mA control signal (typically from a Building Management System or PLC) to automatically adjust motor speed. They’re ideal for commercial buildings where fan speed needs to respond to changing conditions. You can set minimum and maximum speeds, and setting the signal to 0V/0mA turns the fan off completely.
https://powerform.com.au/product-category/variable-speed-drives/
Will your speed controllers work with EC (Electronically Commutated) fans?
For EC fans, we offer 10k potentiometers specifically designed to interface with EC fan controllers and most modern variable speed drives. And we make Run-on timers for EC motors.
– Run-On Timers & Current Sensors –
What is a run-on timer and when do I need one?
A run-on timer keeps a fan running for a set period after a trigger event. The most common applications are bathroom exhaust fans (running after lights turn off to remove moisture) and laundry exhaust fans (running after the dryer finishes to remove humidity).
What’s the difference between the ISNSE-LC and ISNSE-HC?
The ISNSE-LC (Low Current) is designed for low-power applications like bathroom lights, typically switching at lower current levels. The ISNSE-HC (High Current) handles higher loads and is ideal for laundry applications where you’re sensing when a dryer finishes its cycle.
How does a current sensor work?
Our current sensors detect when power is flowing through a circuit (like when your bathroom light or dryer is on) and automatically trigger another circuit (like a fan). When the original device turns off, the fan continues running for a preset time before switching off.
Can I adjust the run-on time?
Yes, most of our run-on timer models feature adjustable timers that can be set during installation to suit your specific needs, typically ranging from a few minutes to over an hour depending on the model.
– Installation & Technical –
Do you provide wiring diagrams?
Yes, every product comes with comprehensive wiring diagrams and installation instructions. Additional technical documentation is available on our website under Tech Support, organized by product category. If you need specific guidance, our technical team is available to help.
What does “3 wire + earth” connection mean?
This refers to connecting neutral, main winding, auxiliary winding, plus earth. When controllers are connected this way to both motor windings, they operate at their full rated capacity. If connected inline with just the active wire, they need to be derated and may not perform optimally. We can advise on proper connection methods for your specific application.
Are your products suitable for outdoor installation?
Most of our controllers are designed for indoor installation or protected outdoor environments. Check the specific product’s IP rating and specifications. If you need outdoor-rated solutions, contact us to discuss weatherproof enclosure options.
What voltage do your products operate on?
Our standard products are designed for 230V AC single-phase, which is the Australian standard. If you have special voltage requirements, contact us about custom solutions.
– Warranty & Support –
What warranty do you offer?
All Powerform Controls products come with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Because we design and manufacture everything locally, warranty claims are handled quickly and efficiently.
What if my product stops working?
Contact our technical support team first. Many issues can be resolved over the phone or via email. If repair or replacement is needed, we’ll guide you through the warranty process.
Do you provide technical support?
Absolutely. Our team of engineers provides expert technical support from initial product selection through to installation and beyond. We can help with wiring questions, troubleshooting, system design, and application-specific advice. Contact us by phone during business hours or via email anytime.
How long do your products typically last?
Our designs are proven over many years of service with excellent reliability. Under normal operating conditions, you can expect many years of trouble-free operation. We have customers using controllers that are 15+ years old and still going strong.
Every unit is tested before shipping – what does this mean?
Before any product leaves our facility, it undergoes individual testing to ensure it performs perfectly. This quality control step virtually eliminates DOA (Dead On Arrival) units and gives you confidence that your controller will work the first time you power it up.
– Ordering & Delivery –
How quickly can you ship?
We maintain stock of our standard products and typically ship within 1-2 business days for in-stock items. For bulk orders or custom products, lead times may vary. Contact us for specific delivery timeframes for your project.
Do you ship Australia-wide?
Yes, we ship to all Australian states and territories. Shipping costs are calculated based on weight and destination at checkout.
And New Zealand.
Can I get a quote for a large project?
Yes, We offer competitive pricing for bulk orders and large projects. Contact us with your project details and quantities, and we’ll provide a custom quote with discounted pricing where applicable.
Do you accept purchase orders?
Yes, we work with trade customers and accept purchase orders from established accounts. Contact our sales team to set up a trade account.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, direct bank transfer, and purchase orders for approved accounts. Payment details are provided during the checkout process.
– Custom Solutions –
Can you create custom products?
Yes, Beyond our standard range, we design and manufacture specialized electronic equipment for unique applications. If you have specific requirements that aren’t met by our standard products, contact us to discuss custom solutions. We have the design capabilities and local manufacturing flexibility to create products tailored to your exact needs.
What kind of custom projects do you handle?
We’ve created custom controllers for unique industrial applications, modified standard products to meet specific building requirements, developed specialized control systems for commercial HVAC installations, and more. If it involves motor control or electronic switching, we can probably help.
How long does custom development take?
Timeframes vary depending on complexity. Simple modifications to existing products can be quick, while completely custom designs require more time for engineering, prototyping, and testing. Contact us to discuss your timeline and requirements.
How do I contact technical support?
Phone: 02 9460 8881
Email: Available through our Contact Us page
Address: 1/2-8 Campbell St, Artarmon NSW 2064
Our technical team is ready to help with product selection, installation guidance, troubleshooting, and any other questions you may have.
What information should I have ready when I call?
For the most efficient support, have ready
- Your motor’s nameplate information (FLA rating, voltage, HP/kW)
- Details about your application (bathroom fan, kitchen exhaust, etc.)
- Installation environment (indoor/outdoor, temperature)
- Photos if you’re troubleshooting an existing installation.