Electricians around New Zealand are making the switch to the new PDL Pro Series – a robust feature-packed range that brings innovation to the commercial wiring device market to meet demand for easy-to-install technology, robustness and security.
An easy and logical switch
Designed for use in retail, education, office and public spaces, the PDL Pro Series range is also finding wider applications thanks to its durability and security.
Electrical company Blizzard, which services the greater Wellington region, has been using the Pro Series range since early 2021 and now specifies it into all its commercial projects.
Blizzard’s Head Electrical Manager, Jordan Churchill, says that when he and his team first tried the range they were impressed with its IK08 rating and innovative protected circuit ID panels, among other features. He says making it part of Blizzard’s offering was an easy decision and the switchgear has quickly proven itself on the job.
Advanced Features
Pro Series’ advanced features include protected circuit ID and sockets rated at IK08 for high impact resistance, as well as added security with skins that require a screwdriver for removal.
It is available in black or white and the switches feature 300 series mechanisms and modules such as 16AX mechs, connected dimmers, sensors, timers and C-Bus options for streamlined use and access to parts. Sockets are available in several variants, and in horizontal and vertical orientation. There is also a wide choice of USB options.
Innovation and easy installation
Blizzard recently installed PDL Pro Series in a fit-out for a well-known skincare specialist group in Upper Hutt and Jordan says it was the ideal choice for a space that needed to combine good looks with hard-wearing practicality.
“Pro Series has a really nice gloss finish, which complemented the rest of the cabinetry and overall fit-out, and the range is more resistant to knocks when things are moved around.”
The innovative circuit identification in the Pro Series also creates a streamlined look, as well as improving circuit safety. Circuit ID labels attach to panels at each end of the grid and are protected under clear windows in the plate, so they can’t be damaged or wiped off. Because the labels are on the grids, the correct circuit identification will always be displayed, even if the skins are swapped inadvertently.
Make the Change
It’s a clever feature of the range that has really impressed Jordan. “The number of times that we stick a bit of tape on the front of a plate – it looks good when we fit it off, but three months later all the stickers are peeling off. Having the ability to seal it under the plate keeps it tidy and means that it’s always going to be there.”
Jordan says he and his team have found that the toughened plastic and secured skins of the Pro Series have been a client-preferred option in some rental housing properties too.
“I’ve been into so many properties where switch gear has been damaged by furniture and other items. Pro Series is a product that’s designed to withstand impact and makes it harder for tenants to get in behind the skins and interfere with the electrical circuitry. I know it’s going to keep people safe and look good in a property as well.”
He says installation of PDL Pro Series is straightforward and its strength is a real advantage.
“As things have got more slimline and sleek they’ve become a lot more flexible, whereas Pro Series has a sleek look but toughened plastic, which really helps installation. When something’s a lot tougher the plastic doesn’t bend as much and it sits tidier to the wall.”
Feedback on the Pro Series has been very positive and Jordan says that clients appreciate the easy-to-wipe gloss finish and robust plastic that doesn’t scratch or mark as easily, reducing the risk of damage in public-facing areas.
