Electric Controls Products
Showing 1 to 1 of 1 products
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of Fused Spur Electric Controllers in an electric heating system?
A Fused Spur Electric Controller serves as a critical safety device and control unit for your electric radiators or towel rails. Its main technical function is to provide a dedicated local isolation point from the main electrical circuit which is a mandatory requirement for fixed electrical appliances. Beyond safety this device allows you to manually switch the power to the heating element on or off and often integrates a fuse to protect the equipment from electrical surges or faults ensuring your system operates securely.
How does the Greenbrook Electrical Fused Switched Spur Unit With Boost Timer improve energy efficiency?
The Greenbrook Electrical Fused Switched Spur Unit features a specialized Boost Timer which is a highly effective problem solving tool for reducing energy waste. Instead of leaving an electric towel rail running continuously this controller allows you to activate the heating element for a pre set duration such as one or two hours. Once the timer countdown finishes the unit automatically cuts power to the radiator preventing it from consuming electricity unnecessarily when the room or towel is already dry.
Why is a fused spur connection unit considered a mandatory safety device for electric radiators?
Electrical regulations dictate that fixed appliances like electric radiators must have a means of isolation from the mains supply for maintenance and emergency purposes. A fused spur connection unit acts as this safety isolator allowing an electrician or homeowner to safely cut power to the specific radiator without turning off the electricity for the entire house. It also houses a specific fuse usually 13 amps that protects the heating element cabling from overheating or carrying excessive current.
Can I use a Fused Spur Electric Controller with any type of electric heating element?
Generally yes a Fused Spur Electric Controller is compatible with most standard electric heating elements used in radiators and towel rails provided the wattage of the element does not exceed the ampere rating of the spur unit usually 13 amps. It acts as the power gateway for the element. However for precise temperature control it is often used in conjunction with a thermostatic element or a separate room thermostat to manage heat levels while the spur handles the power supply and timing.
What is the difference between a standard thermostatic element and a Fused Spur Electric Controller with a timer?
A thermostatic element is installed directly inside the radiator to measure the water temperature and cycle the power to maintain a specific heat level. In contrast a Fused Spur Electric Controller with a timer is an external wall mounted unit that controls when the power is actually delivered to that element. For the most efficient system you typically use both a thermostat to regulate heat intensity and a timer spur to regulate the operating hours and ensure the heating is not left on accidently.
How do I install a Greenbrook fused spur timer for my bathroom electric towel rail?
Installing a Greenbrook fused spur timer involves wiring the unit into the mains ring final circuit or a dedicated radial circuit. The unit requires a permanent live and neutral feed from the mains and sends a switched live and neutral load out to the electric radiator. For bathroom installations strictly adhere to electrical zones regulations often placing the fused spur outside the bathroom or in a safe zone while a pull cord might be used inside for switching to ensure protection against moisture ingress and electrical shock.
Does the boost timer feature on electric controllers retain its settings after a power cut?
Most modern electric controllers and boost timers like the Greenbrook models are designed with non volatile memory or battery backup for their internal clock settings. However simple mechanical boost timers usually do not have complex memory settings to lose as they function on a manual countdown press. If the power cuts during a boost cycle the heating will stop and typically you will need to manually press the boost button again once power is restored to restart the heating cycle.
Can I use a Fused Spur Electric Controller for a dual fuel towel rail system?
Yes a Fused Spur Electric Controller is an excellent solution for dual fuel towel rails. In summer when your central heating is turned off you can use the electric element to heat the towel rail independently. The fused spur provides the necessary electrical connection and control for this summer heating mode allowing you to use the boost button to dry towels without needing to fire up the main central heating boiler thereby saving significant gas energy.
What technical specifications should I check before buying a Fused Spur Electric Controller?
Before purchasing you should verify the amp rating to ensure it can handle the load of your radiator usually 13A is standard. Check the dimensions for back box compatibility the Greenbrook unit is 87mm by 87mm fitting standard single gang boxes. Also consider the IP rating if installing near water sources and look for features like an integrated neon indicator light which provides visual confirmation that the heating element is active helping you troubleshoot connection issues easily.
How does a fused spur controller help in troubleshooting a faulty electric radiator?
If your electric radiator stops working the fused spur controller is the first point of diagnosis. The unit usually contains a replaceable fuse link. By safely isolating the unit and checking or swapping this fuse you can determine if the issue is a simple blown fuse due to a surge or a deeper fault with the heating element itself. The isolation switch also allows you to safely disconnect the radiator from the grid to test the element resistance with a multimeter without exposing live wires.