Heat sequencers are a component in some electric furnaces. A heat sequencer activates the heating elements and blowers in the furnace in a controlled sequence. A heat sequencer is an electrical device that controls the timing of the activation and deactivation of multiple heating elements and the blower motor in an electric furnace. Contact us today to discuss your heat sequencer switch needs.
When the thermostat calls for heat, it sends an electrical signal to the heat sequencer. The sequencer contains a small heating element that begins to warm up as soon as it receives the signal. As the heater element warms up, it heats a bimetallic disc inside the sequencer. As the temperature increases, the disc bends causing it to close electrical contacts in a specific sequence. These contacts are connected to different heating elements and the blower motor in the furnace. The first set of contacts typically powers the first heating element, followed by the second set of contacts for the next heating element, and so on. The last set of contacts usually activates the blower motor.
By controlling the sequence and timing of the heating elements’ activation, the sequencer ensures that the electrical load is distributed gradually. This prevents a sudden demand for electricity, which could trip breakers or damage the furnace’s electrical components. When the thermostat stops calling for heat, the electrical signal to the sequencer is cut off. The heater element inside the sequencer cools down, causing the bimetallic disc to bend the opposite way, opening the electrical contacts in the reverse order, gradually deactivating the heating elements and the blower motor.
Turning on the heating elements in a sequence helps maintain a stable electrical load, leading to more efficient operation of the furnace. It also ensures that the blower motor activates after the heating elements have warmed up. This process prevents electrical overload
