Is Your Nanoleaf Controller Turning Yellow?
Nanoleaf is a popular brand of smart lighting that has gained a following for its ability to create unique lighting designs. However, users of Nanoleaf have reported a common issue of yellowing in the controller. If you’re wondering why your Nanoleaf controller is turning yellow, we’ve got the answers for you.
Heat From The Electrical Current.
The first cause is overheating in the circuit, which can be seen in the picture. When electrical current runs through the controller, it generates heat that can cause the plastic material to turn yellow. This yellowing is often seen in one small part of the controller.
Uneven Power Distribution
Uneven distribution of electrical current is another issue that can cause yellowing in Nanoleaf controllers. When you have a large Nanoleaf setup, you are most likely going to use multiple power supplies. It’s easy to forget to balance the power distribution, leading to one of the power supplies or controllers powering most of the light panels and creating too much heat on one power supply or controller.
Natural Yellowing
Another cause of yellowing in Nanoleaf controllers is natural yellowing over time. This is a common issue with plastic materials and occurs as they age. The plastic material in Nanoleaf controllers is no exception and can turn yellow over time due to exposure to light and air.
Recommended Solutions
Warranty
If your Nanoleaf controller is still within the warranty period, you can contact Nanoleaf support to get a replacement for free. However, if your controller is out of warranty, it’s recommended to replace it with a new one by purchasing one. It’s unlikely that Nanoleaf will send you a replacement if the controller is out of warranty. However, it’s worth contacting Nanoleaf support through email or social media to ask for a replacement after the warranty period.
Voluntary Shapes Controller Replacement Program
Nanoleaf has also announced a voluntary Shapes Controller Replacement Program for customers experiencing yellowing in their controllers. This program aims to replace affected Shapes controllers with updated ones that have undergone improved design and manufacturing processes. If you believe that your Shapes controller is affected by this issue, you can check the eligibility requirements and register for the replacement program on Nanoleaf’s website: https://helpdesk.nanoleaf.me/en-US/voluntary-shapes-controller-replacement-program-68923.
Fire and Electrical safety
It’s important to note that the worst-case scenario that can happen is an electrical fire. However, this is rare, and if it were a widespread issue, there would be a mass recall of the product that would be all over the news and social media platforms. Basic fire safety measures, such as having a fire extinguisher nearby, can help mitigate any potential safety concerns.
Avoiding sunlight
Another way to prevent yellowing in your Nanoleaf controller is to avoid direct sunlight exposure. Sunlight can cause plastic materials to deteriorate and turn yellow over time, so it’s best to keep your controllers away from windows or other sources of direct sunlight.
By following these tips and being mindful of the potential causes of yellowing in Nanoleaf controllers, you can keep your smart lighting system functioning properly and looking great for years to come.
Conclusion
In short, yellowing in Nanoleaf controllers is a common issue that can be caused by overheating in the circuit, natural yellowing over time, or uneven distribution of electrical current. If your controller is within the warranty period, you can get a replacement for free from Nanoleaf support. If not, it’s recommended to purchase a new one. Remember to practice basic fire safety measures to mitigate any potential safety concerns.
References
Heat and discoloration of unit
Nanoleaf controller turning yellow?
Experiences with discoloring panels