Astronomical clocks offer a smart solution for managing your energy consumption. Automating your lighting installations according to solar cycles may be the solution you are looking for! No more tedious manual adjustments of traditional timers, astronomical clocks have the advantage of adapting to the positions of the sun and moon according to the seasons without any human intervention and for optimal energy efficiency.
What is an astronomical clock?
An astronomical clock is not necessarily what you think it is. Forget those large dials that adorn certain European cathedrals, such as the famous astronomical clock in Prague! We are actually going to talk to you about programmable time switches that accurately calculate sunrise and sunset times. Their intelligence allows for daily adjustment to seasonal variations, unlike a conventional twilight switch or lighting timer.
These modular devices take your geographical location into account to calculate the solar cycle. The result? Ultra-precise calculations throughout the year. Their operation is based on astronomical equations related to the Earth's tilt and the movements of the stars.
The latest models, such as Theben astronomical clocks or Legrand and Schneider astronomical time switches, feature digital interfaces and LED displays that make programming simple and intuitive. Some brands even offer Bluetooth or GPS connectivity. These advanced features guarantee optimal energy management in all seasons, whether for sunrise or sunset times in summer or winter.
The way this type of electrical equipment works has improved significantly over time. Today's models are highly sophisticated electronic devices, whereas in the past less reliable mechanical models were used.
Uses of an astronomical clock
Astronomical clocks are useful in many different sectors. However, public lighting remains the flagship application for these devices. Street lights now turn on at dusk, summer and winter alike. No more delays, no more waste. This precision allows municipalities to make real savings.
Astronomical clocks are also useful in:
- The service sector: offices, shops, outdoor car parks, shopping centres... all benefit from them for managing illuminated signs, lighting and other electrical appliances.
- Industry: for managing outdoor lighting. Company car parks and warehouses benefit from lighting that is perfectly synchronised with natural light without the risk of short circuits.
- Agriculture: farms use these astronomical switches for their greenhouses and irrigation systems.
- Residential: at home, these clocks control everything: the garden, the entrance, the automatic gate. Their intelligent programming simulates a presence during your holidays. The programming also allows you to manage the start-up of your hot water tank during off-peak hours.
- For heritage sites: churches, castles and historic monuments are illuminated at the perfect moment thanks to this technology. Gone are the days of premature or late lighting with conventional timers.
Advantages of an astronomical clock
What better advantage than saving on your energy consumption? There is a significant reduction in electricity bills from the first few months of installing astronomical clocks.
What's more, automation gives you complete peace of mind. No more seasonal adjustments to plan for, as with a standard twilight switch! The astronomical clock automatically adapts to changes in daylight hours throughout the year, without any intervention on your part.
Its operating precision far exceeds that of conventional systems such as photoelectric cells, which are often disrupted by bad weather or dirty sensors. Astronomical calculations guarantee optimal triggering regardless of outdoor conditions.
These systems also effectively reduce night-time light pollution. Wildlife will thank you... and so will the planet! The intelligent programming turns off certain lights during off-peak hours, resulting in significant energy savings.
Another advantage is its compatibility with a wide variety of electrical equipment. These modular timers can be easily integrated into your electrical cabinets and boxes. This flexibility makes them the ideal solution for modernising ageing installations without having to replace all your electrical equipment.
Security is significantly enhanced. Smart lighting effectively deters intruders. Sensitive areas remain perfectly lit when necessary, without unnecessary waste.
Have you thought about your equipment? Unnecessary switching on and off causes premature wear and tear on bulbs and LEDs. These clocks extend their service life. An additional saving that is often overlooked but very real!
Manage programming with an astronomical clock
Programming your astronomical clock is fairly simple, unlike other more complex electrical diagrams. You simply need to indicate your location to obtain calculations that are perfectly adapted to your location. Most models already know the main cities. In a rural area? Enter your coordinates manually for optimal accuracy.
Recent models synchronise automatically with the date and time. No more worries after a power cut! This feature avoids many inconveniences when conventional programmers malfunction.
The essential steps for successful programming are therefore as follows:
- Define your geographical location for accurate calculation of sunrise/sunset times
- Configure the date and time
- Customise the delays: adjust the switch-on and switch-off times in relation to natural sunlight hours. For example, you can set the lights to come on 15 minutes after sunset.
- Program exceptions: differentiate between days of the week according to your specific needs
- Add night-time cut-offs: set switch-off periods to save more energy. This is a tip that is widely used for street lighting in municipalities between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
- Test your configuration: use the simulation function to check your settings before confirming them
Another great thing about this type of product is that it can be easily integrated with other home automation systems. The high-end models integrate perfectly with existing systems and you can control everything from your smartphone!
In conclusion, astronomical clocks offer an unbeatable compromise for your electrical installation. Energy efficiency, savings, comfort and ease of use: they have it all. Whether you are a professional electrician or a private individual concerned about your energy consumption, these devices are definitely worth considering, so don't hesitate to check out our range of astronomical clocks from Theben, Schneider and Legrand, available in stock at a fair price on One-Elec.
