[avocadocomputers2]

Re: Can I reduce the heating element power?

I’ve looked for high power dimmer switches but all I can find are standard lighting dimmers and they are only about 6 amps or so. Presumably I would need something like a 20 amp dimmer?

Secretly shorting out the thermostat isn’t a bad idea either. The wife would be so impressed at how quickly the machine could do a 40 degree wash but unfortunately she’s not daft enough not to see through a scam like that.

[avocadocomputers2]

Re: Can I reduce the heating element power?

Would anyone know what size rheostat I could use to say half the heating power?

[avocadocomputers2]

Re: Can I reduce the heating element power?

I don’t have a problem washing with cold water only. It’s just the wife – she insists on at least a 40 degree wash for all the kids clothes.

I don’t really want to alter the thermostat – I’m happy with it heating up to 40 degrees. I just need it to take a bit longer to get there by using a lower powered heater.

Is it possible to get a replacement heating element that uses less power?
Or simply add a current limiting resistor?

[avocadocomputers2]

Re: Can I reduce the heating element power?

Kwatt, It’s a Balay TS745.

[avocadocomputers2]

Re: Can I reduce the heating element power?

I just need to reduce the current that the heater draws. The temperature isn’t a problem, the washing machine can just keep heating for a longer period of time until it gets up to 40 degrees.

Maclee, I like your idea of adding a diode. Any idea where could I find one though?

Cheers,
James

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