3kw heaters install, timer switches

James2249 · Feb 20, 2024

Evening Gents

just after a bit of advice and what would you do differently. I have wired up 3 kw heaters in 4mm tuff cable (40 meter distance, separate circuits, b20 mcb warehouse). I used these energy efficient timer switches to save energy. I have managed to get the wires in but it’s tight, I feel if I remove the cover it pull the connections out from circuit board inside. Thinking about ditching the switches, any ideas what I could. I don’t want a metal glad switch in case people forget to switch it off.

Eterna IP66 16A Electrical Outdoor Time Delay Switch (Switch I installed)

Thanks

James · Feb 20, 2024

small board with some contactors in it close to the source of supply.
then you only need 4 core +E in a small size to run from the board to the switches.

davesparks · Feb 20, 2024

I doubt the terminals in those are suitable for 4mm, more likely designed for 1.5mm as they are limited to 16A.

You could use the time switch to operate a contactor to switch the actual load, either one contactor to switch all 3 at once or individually. Thai has the added advantage of reducing the load on the timeswitches and potentially extending their lifespan.