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Is anyone here using a variac to run their heating coil?
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Rank: Guest
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hi, i'm not using a variac, but why? you seem to a great setup. are thinking of trying something new? are you asking fer someone else? i'm just curious.
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No, I plan to continue to use what I have set up, I'm just curious.
I never really thought about using a varic, heck I hadn't even seen one in years but I ran across one and thought WOW this may be another solution. I haven't actually used one since I gave up electric trains, but I thought maybe someone here was using one and they could share their experience. I imagine they would be cheap enough on ebay. I'm just always looking for new ideas.
You know my moto, 'If it ain't broke, break it! There might be a better way.'
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i did think about it once, but it never really went much further than thinking about it. but if'n anyone does i wouldn't mind hearing how it works fer them.
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I looked into the Variacs a while back. There were several on ebay, but as I remember, you could buy three or four dimmer switches for the same money. They do appear to be well built and specs say they will handle more current. That would probably make for an increased longevity. If you want to control more than 1500 watts, a Variac might be the way to go.
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Thanks Bill, I guess I'll just stick with my Lutron for the time being.
However, understanding that Watts = Voltage*Amps anyone interested in a varaic should know that for a 1500W coil you would need at least a 13 Amp varaic.
Another idea for those of you our there looking for a controller might be a router speed controller. Most of them handle 15 to 20 amps.
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Rank: Guest
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also remember that just saying 1 watt = 1 VA is usually alright, but there is a difference. If you are dealing with VA's and Watts ,cord rated at X Amps and Y Volts = VA's, burner rated at X Watts, its alright, since most burners are resistance generated heat and have a power factor of very close to 1.
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