The Truth About Switchable Glass: Why Power Cycling Matters

Last Updated on September 8, 2025 by SwitchGlass

One of the biggest misconceptions about switchable privacy glass is its operating states. Many people believe the glass is clear when powered off and frosted when powered on. In reality, it’s the opposite:

• OFF = Translucent / Frosted

• ON = Clear / Transparent

This distinction is more than technical—it’s critical for the long-term reliability of your panels.

Why You Must Power Down

Switchable glass should be powered down for at least four hours every 24 hours. Without this downtime, the liquid crystals remain polarized. Over time, this can cause:

• Crystals locking in place (leading to incomplete frosting)

• Micro-cracking in the bus bars, causing premature failure

Proof That It Works

In our workshop, we still have a panel made over 15 years ago that performs as perfectly as the day it was built. Its longevity is directly linked to regular powering on and off, giving the panel the downtime it needs.

Best Practice

• Educate users: Off = frosted, On = clear

• Use timers or automation for downtime

• Avoid 24/7 “always on” operation

By respecting these simple rules, your switchable glass will perform beautifully for decades.

Switch it off, to keep it working on.