As always, the answers by ClearMan must first meet all national, state and local building codes.  If questions regarding electrical wiring arise, please consult a certified electrician.  Be sure all power is turned off before beginning any wiring. 

Always think safety first.

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Can I wire a ClearMirror® to a switch other than the one for the bathroom light?

I didn't install the ClearMirror®  squarely on the back of the mirror. What will happen to the adhesive if I pull off the pad and re-stick it?

Is the ClearMirror®  really safe to use on all types of mirrors and backings?

Can I use a ClearMirror®  to keep my bath mat warm?

Can I order custom shapes and sizes of ClearMirrors®?

Can I install a ClearMirror®  horizontally?

I read something about not installing ClearMirrors® on exterior walls. Why not?

Can I add a plug to the standard dual leads of a Original ClearMirror® and then plug into a clock box outlet?

Can I use regular cleaning supplies on the mirror?

Can I run the ClearMirror®  electric wire leads right through the wall?

The closest power supply to wire my ClearMirror®  is in the ceiling above the sink.  What should I do?

Can I wire a ClearMirror® to a switch other than the one for the bathroom light? 

CM: Yes you can. In fact we encourage you to wire your ClearMirror® to a device that you most typically turn on and off while a shower is running.  Other switches could include your bath fan, a separate switch for a light in your shower, or even a separately installed programmable stat.  We are even developing a switch that will turn your ClearMirror® on and off automatically when it senses condensation in the room! Stay tuned...

I didn't install the ClearMirror® squarely on the back of the mirror.  What will happen to the adhesive if I pull off the pad and re-stick it?

CM: Unfortunately, you won't like the results.  The adhesive is silicone based and even though it requires time to permanently "set-up", the adhesive is designed to be extremely sticky and will probably be ruined if the pad is removed.  If the adhesive doesn't co-operate, please send me a check for $5 along with your CM#  and we would be happy to mail you new adhesive strips.

Is the ClearMirror® really safe to use on all types of mirrors and backings?

CM: Our research and testing has shown that a majority of new construction mirrors are silvered with a high quality coating that resists medium to high temperatures over a long period of time. Some less expensive mirrors are coated with products that resemble spray paint and may not be able to handle long-term temperatures in the 100 to 150 degree range (which is the estimated heat index of ClearMirrors®).  We have found that mirrors thicker than 3/16" usually have a quality silvering which avoids damage.  If there is any doubt, please check with your mirror manufacturer who will have this product information.  NewHome, or any distributor, does not warrant damage or discoloration by a ClearMirror® for any mirrors.

Can I use a ClearMirror® to keep my bath mat warm?

CM: No. The ClearMirror® line of products have been tested and listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for use as a bathroom mirror defogger only.  Neither use your ClearMirror® for any reason other than a mirror defogger nor handle when connected to an electrical supply.

Can I order custom shapes and sizes of ClearMirrors®?

CM: Yes. Beyond our growing standard  size list, we would be more than happy to hear your custom request. We will try to accommodate all requests, however some may not be possible to manufacture.  Please be prepared for higher relative pricing for any custom quote. We have produced units as large as 3' x 4'!

Can I install a ClearMirror® horizontally?

CM: Absolutely. If you find that a wider view fits your needs better, perhaps for two people to share at once, go right ahead.  The installation directions will have to be altered by yourself or your contractor, paying particular attention to the ClearMirror® height, sink centering and the cutout location.  Additional properly gauged wire may be required to make the connection. NOTE: You may also install them side by side for larger fog free areas.

I read something about not installing ClearMirrors® on exterior walls. Why not?

CM: Nearly 5 years ago, we had some mirrors installed on exterior walls that cracked. We determined the homes were new construction, during the winter and not kept to normal livable temperatures. If the home is kept warm during construction and the exterior envelope is complete you should be fine. If in doubt, keep unit inoperable (disconnected or covered with duct tape) until final electrical.

Can I add a plug to the standard dual leads of an Original ClearMirror® and then plug it into a 'clock box' outlet?

CM: We wouldn't suggest altering any ClearMirror® product. Keep in mind our units are UL listed for their intended application and installation method. And in this case we do not know what effects this could have on safety or the units operation. We do have a UL listing to manufacture units with an ALCI cordset (plug), however due to additional cost, this unit is only available on custom orders greater then 25 units.

Can I use regular cleaning supplies on the mirror?

CM: Yes.  Using normal glass and mirror cleaners on surface of your ClearMirror® equipped mirror is fine.  Do not use any substances which are combustible, toxic, wax or oil-based because these could emit harmful fumes or discolor your mirrors surface when heated. NEVER, allow ammonia based products, or silicone adhesives to come into contact with a mirror backing. You can literally watch the silvering turn black.

Can I run the ClearMirror® electric wire leads right through the wall?

CM: If they are unprotected you cannot. The typical dual leads of a Shower or Original ClearMirror® are only 18 gauge. For most state electrical codes you can only run non-sheathed cable (Romex) or UL listed electrical conduit through the wall. With approval from your electrical inspector you may be able to run the 18 gauge wire leads through a conduit to a remote connection (keep in mind the maximum standard length of Original and International ClearMirror® leads is 42"). We can manufacture a unit with non-sheathed cable exiting the heater, however due to additional cost, this unit is only available on custom orders greater then 25 units.

The closest power supply to wire my ClearMirror® is in the ceiling above the sink.  What should I do?

CM: In some homes built in the early 70's and before, this overhead light placement was typical.  As you might imagine this may take some additional wiring work.  Measure the distance up the wall from the ClearMirror® height to the ceiling and then over to the light fixture.  The solution is to run a properly gauged wire from the fixture gang box (sized per code), through holes drilled in the walls top-plate and down to the ClearMirror® cutout.  Then wire the ClearMirror® to this new extension as normal.

If faxing your questions is easier, send them to the attention of ClearMan at 651.739.0403. Send any mail inquiries to ClearMan at 425 Weir Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125, USA. Thank you for dropping in to read the latest ClearMirror® information.