How to Install a Central Heating Timer

A central heating timer controls the interval for which a central heating system works. Having such a device is useful not only because it reduces your electricity bill, but also because it reduces your carbon footprint.

It does this by either turning off the entire central heating system or a part of it after a specified amount of time. Simply put, your heating system does not keep on running and wasting valuable fuel. To bring about a general improvement in your home or building, follow the steps below to incorporate a timer in your central heating system.

Tools and Materials Required

• A central heating programmer with a timer feature that is compatible with your central heating system
• A wall-plate
• A fuse
• A screwdriver and some screws
• Drill
• A pair of gloves

Step 1 – Take Appropriate Precautions

As you will be working with live electricity, make sure that you have the main breaker set to off before starting the installation process. Make sure that you use your drill with caution and wear gloves during the whole process to prevent injuries. Incorporate a fuse into the circuit to protect the programmer from power surges. After you have gone through these precautions, it is time to move on to installing the programmer.

Step 2 – Choosing a Programmer

Choosing the correct programmer can be a tricky task. It is highly dependent on the type of heating system. In general, if you need to control your water boiler and heater separately then choose a dual circuit programmer. Otherwise, a mono circuit programmer will suffice. It is useful to purchase the model and make which provides detailed installation instructions.

Step 3 – Installing the Wall Plate

Consult the instructions booklet provided with the wall plate to accurately execute this step. A wall plate is the node through which signals travel from the programmer to the central heating system. Generally, this plate has to be drilled into the wall. In this case, use the drill with extreme caution to attach the plate according to your convenience. Wall plates come in different shapes and sizes; while some have a 9 pin interface, others come with a 16 one. Contact your dealer to learn more about compatibility with your programmer.

Step 4 – Installing the Programmer

Using the instructions, plug in the programmer on to the wall plate or screw using a screwdriver. Check the terminals and turn on the main breaker. It is as simple as that. Test your programmer to determine if it is functioning properly. If it isn’t, call an electrician or engineer for professional troubleshooting. It is important that you read the instructions manual carefully to determine the correct method of using the programmer to set a time. If two hours of heating are sufficient to last you for an acceptable period of time, then set the timer so as to save up on your electric bill. Make sure you put away your tools and clean up the work area to prevent any accidents from occurring.