Do I need a relay

[bigoledude]

I have a wafer thermostat and two 100 watt halogen spots for my heat source. Do I need a relay?

 

[NYREDS]

Not being sure what a relay is I don't understand the question. That said, if it's wired so the thermostat operates the heat source it will work.

 

[HatchCraft]

No relay needed, But a relay will extend the life of the micro switch.

 

[JimnTer]

How many amps is your microswitch rated for? It will say on the side of it. 2 X100 watt bulbs draws about 1.67 amps at 110 volts. If your switch is rated lower than 1.67 amps at 110 volts, you will need a relay, but I would say if its rated for less than 2 amps you should add the relay. If you are pushing the switch near its maximum capacity, it will shorten its life. If the switch is rated for more than 2 amps at 110v there is no advantage to adding a relay.

 

[moetrout]

How many amps is your microswitch rated for? It will say on the side of it. 2 X100 watt bulbs draws about 1.67 amps at 110 volts. If your switch is rated lower than 1.67 amps at 110 volts, you will need a relay, but I would say if its rated for less than 2 amps you should add the relay. If you are pushing the switch near its maximum capacity, it will shorten its life. If the switch is rated for more than 2 amps at 110v there is no advantage to adding a relay.

I agree with this advice. I use to work for Honeywell and we often use to use relays to separate the programmable thermostats from the furnace control so I have some experience in this. If you need any help wiring it PM me and I'll draw up a schematic for you. I suspect, since you knew to ask about using a relay, you already have this covered.