Tackling heated cable due to heater

[waiyme]

Hello,

We are currently using a cheap Argos domestic fan heater in our small warehouse. Heater is connected to 15amp extension cable.

Both heater and extension cable will get heated up if we increase the temperature of the heater / long use.

We are thinking to get a Dimplex PFH30R Heat Output 3.0kW. http://www.dimplex.co.uk/assets/kb/technical_specification/0/PFH30R_Spec_Sheet.pdf How do we avoid cable heating up? Should we upgrade the extension cable to 16amp? or use this transformer instead Faithfull FPPTRAN33A 3.3kva Dual Socket Transformer Transformer 3.3kVA | FaithfullTools.com or Heater Transformer 3.3kVA Continuous Rating | FaithfullTools.com

Thanks in advance

 

[Darkwood]

Hi waiyme welcome to the forum

The next time Admin' is on line you may be given access to the DIY section and the thread relocated, this will not effect any posting made.
You question is a little confusing tbh you are asking about a 230v heater then asking about using a 110v transformer? Can you please expand on your question.

If your using any extensions ensure they are rated for the load and you follow the advice usually on the reel that they must be fully unwound to be used with their full rated loading.

This method of heating is very inefficient regarding the task you have put it to and you will be paying high electric costs to run these constantly, the savings of using other systems may be something you may wish to look into although the initial install costs may be high, you will certainly get that back in the savings made.

 

[Octopus]

It begs a question why you are trying to run a 230v heater from a 110v transformer - are you sure about this?

Any extension lead, being used with a heater, should be unreeled all the time its being used!

 

[waiyme]

Hello,

We are a bunch of confused helpless people tbh trying to see what is the best efficient way to go about it. Please be gentle with us. Obviously the transformer was very daft, do ignore it.

The extension cable is definitely unreeled at all time. This is the cable we are using 25 Meters of Black Flex 3183Y 1.5mm 15 Amp 3 Core Flexible Black Cable: Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

This is our setup: 325 sqft warehouse container built-style (close space)
It is not possible to connect the heater directly to main plug, therefore extension cable will be used.
The Dimplex Wall Heater will be used on timer. Does not need blazing hot air, just intermittent hot air to maintain workable condition during winter months.

Electricity cost is not an issue as our rent is include uncapped electricity, but setting up other system is not an option as it is not allowed in our rental agreement ie no drilling, permanent fixture etc.

Appreciate input.

Thanks

 

[Spoon]

I don't think there is anything else to put. Posts 2 and 3 have covered it. Just wait for the OP to come back and clarify things.

 

[waiyme]

Hi,

The transformer thing is daft, please ignore it.

The extension cable is about 30m, unreeled all the way, all the time.

Setting up a proper heater system is out of question, so we we can only implement off-the-shelf solution. Electricity cost is not a big issue.

The warehouse is only about 325 sqft, close space. It will be run on timer and will not be run on full blast on long term, just intermittent to maintain room temperature during cold winter.

Any advise or new solution is much welcome.

Thanks

 

[HandySparks]

How do we avoid cable heating up?

Every cable with current passing through it will heat up. If the current is close to the rating of the cable and on for long enough, it'll heat up enough to feel warm to the touch. This is normal.

A 3kW heater uses about 13A, which is a little less than the 15A cable rating and will be just fine as long as the cable can get rid of the heat. So just make sure that it's not on a reel or coiled up or covered by any sort of material.