timers

This category of products includes timers, i.e. devices of simple design, which are used to control the electrical installation in pre-programmed periods. This fixture is a perfect example of a basic form of home automation. Using programmers, it is possible to precisely determine when the selected device is to be cut off from the source of electricity. This, in turn, makes it easier to manage the work of selected equipment, and thus the power consumption. Time programmers should be of interest primarily to those who want to effectively reduce their electricity bills.

How do timers work?

Timers (also known as timers, dials, or timers) require prior setup. This is a very simple and intuitive process. In most cases, after installing the equipment, it is enough to manually set the time at which the device connected to the network should turn off. Usually, the whole thing is done using a knob or buttons. It all depends on the type of timer you have. Just connecting the programmers with the equipment operating at home is also extremely simple. The switch must be connected to the power source, while the controlled device (usually lighting) is connected to the regulator.

What are timers used for?

The use of timers is very wide. As already mentioned, they are mainly used to control lighting. With this type of fixture, you can specify a fixed time at which the lights in a given room will simply turn off. This is an extremely convenient and economical solution. Interestingly – in this way, you can control not only general lighting, but also its special types. Programmers are commonly used by owners of aquariums, for example. Using regulators, they control the lamps in such a way that, for example, algae do not appear in the glass vessel. Switches can also help in managing garden lighting. In this case, it is possible to specify whether the lamps installed outside are to be lit only in certain evening hours or all night long.

What's important – Programmers are not only used to control lighting. Their benefits can be used even by people who have electric boilers for hot water in their homes. If necessary, you can precisely specify when this type of equipment is to work. This allows you to significantly save on energy consumption. More and more often, programmers are also used to control ordinary electronics and household appliances. This is a solution that is commonly used, for example, in the so-called smart homes.

It is also worth realizing that timers are used not only in homes, but also in offices or industrial facilities.

Types of timers

Currently, there are various models of timers on the market. Generally, they can be divided according to two criteria: the mechanism of action and the method of assembly.

When it comes to the types of circuit breakers that differ in their internal structure, there are mechanical and electronic models on the market. In the first of them, classic clock solutions are used, usually driven by a stepper motor. In this case, a simple knob and the appropriate pins are used to determine the time to turn off the power flowing to a given device. Mechanical programmers are the simplest type of this type of equipment. They are very easy to use and they don't consume much energy. Compared to other models, however, they show low precision of operation (intervals of about 15 minutes). They are also quite loud.

An alternative to mechanical programmers are digital models. They have a more technologically advanced electronic control system. Thanks to this, it is possible to stress the power supply in a more advanced way, e.g. by setting the sequence on a weekly basis. These types of switches have displays that additionally facilitate the operation of the equipment. Compared to mechanical regulators, they are of course more expensive. In addition, due to the additional functions, their operation is difficult. It is also worth noting that digital programmers consume more energy.

Timers are also classified according to the method of assembly. Three basic types of equipment can be distinguished here:

• adapters, i.e. programmers powered by an electrical outlet – the most classic, connected directly to the network with a simple plug. Perfect for the simplest home solutions.
• programmers for DIN rail – adapted for installation in a fuse cabinet. Designed, for example, to control lighting circuits. Installed with clamp cables.

What to pay attention to when choosing a timer?

When buying a timer, it is worth considering several important parameters. First, you need to decide what specific features you want. Mechanical models will suffice for absolutely basic control. However, if we want to be able to program the work cycle, e.g. on a weekly basis, it will be necessary to invest in a more advanced digital solution. In addition, it is important to check under what maximum load power a given model can work. This will allow us to determine which specific devices we are able to safely connect to the programmer. It is also recommended to pay attention to security certificates. This is especially true for circuit breakers that are to be used outdoors. It is important that in this case the equipment is resistant to, for example, moisture or dust.  

Timers available in the EL12.pl shop

On EL12.pl we have a very wide selection of time programmers. We offer both simple models with a mechanical structure, as well as digital copies equipped with high-end displays. Everyone should find a suitable solution with us. The assortment of the EL12.pl store includes only regulators from reputable manufacturers of this type of equipment. We have models from such companies as ABB, ETI Polam, Finder, Hager, Kanalux, Legrand, Eaton, Orno Polska, Theben and Zamel. We offer primarily units that support a rated current of 230 V, although among the available models there are also those that can work under lower loads. In addition, the offer includes regulators operating at a rated current of 16 and 60 A.

Before purchasing, please check whether the model is currently in our warehouses. Such information is always on the product card, just below the technical specification. In the absence of the selected equipment in stock, the execution of the order may be extended to several weeks. As a standard, however, purchases are delivered to the indicated address within three working days.