Central Heating Timers & Programmers
At BES, we offer a wide selection of central heating timers and programmers from leading brands such as Drayton, Honeywell Home, Danfoss and Siemens - it’s a selection designed to support both modern heating installations and straightforward replacement work. From simple mechanical time switches through to multi-channel programmers and wireless combi boiler controls, our range is built around the products installers most commonly specify on site.
With free delivery on qualifying orders and hassle-free returns, you can shop with confidence, knowing you’re getting the best in heating control solutions.
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Central Heating Control Ranges Available From BES
Whether you’re replacing a failed boiler timer, upgrading an older control panel or wiring a new system from scratch, BES will have the timer or programmer you need.
Central Heating Time Switches
Time switches provide straightforward on/off control for heating systems. At BES, we stock a wide selection, including mechanical 24-hour timers, 1-day electronic switches and 7-day digital time switches. Our selection is especially popular for replacement work, where installers need a reliable like-for-like solution for failed or outdated controls.
Our range includes the Honeywell Home 7 Day Single Channel Time Switch, perfect for daily customisation and the Siemens RWB30E Single Channel Time Switch, which is ideal for single-zone heating control and comes with both 24-hour and 7-day programming options. And, if you are looking for a straightforward analogue solution, the Replacement Synchronous Time Switch - 24 Hour offers easy manual operation for your heating system. Other key products include the Drayton LP111 Lifestyle Time Switch and the Danfoss TS710 - V2 Electronic Time Switch, designed to offer simple yet flexible scheduling for homeowners.
Central Heating Programmers
Central heating programmers allow more detailed scheduling and are available in single-channel and two-channel formats. Two-channel programmers are commonly used on system and conventional boilers to control heating and hot water independently, while multi-channel options suit more complex installations.
The Honeywell Home ST9400C 7 Day 2 Channel Programmer is a popular choice for those looking to control both heating and hot water systems with separate schedules. For simple yet effective solutions, the Siemens RWB2E Two Channel Programmer offers intuitive controls, and the PR-3 Multi Channel Programmer gives you versatile control across different areas of your home. Other top products include the Drayton LP522 Two Channel Programmer, and Danfoss FP720-V2 Two Channel Programmer, which provide ease of use and reliable performance for any central heating system.
Combi Boiler Controls
For combination boilers, BES offers wireless clip-in controls designed to integrate easily with compatible combi systems. The Drayton LP20RF Clip-in and Digistat+RF offers wireless control, giving you the freedom to manage your boiler from anywhere in your home. Similarly, the Drayton LP10RF Clip-in and Digistat+3RF is designed for easy installation and comes with advanced control features, perfect for modern central heating systems.
Programmable Thermostats
Programmable thermostats combine time scheduling with temperature control in one unit. A popular choice at BES is the Tower PROG2 Dual Channel Programmer.
Wiring Centres
Our wiring centres provide a central connection point for heating system wiring, making them essential for multi-zone systems and installations using motorised valves. Multiple terminal configurations are available to suit different system layouts. Choose from top options such as the Wiring Centre - 12 Way, the Drayton LWC1 Wiring Centre, the Honeywell Home Sundial Wiring Centre and the Danfoss WC4B Wiring Box - 23 Way Terminals.
Junction Boxes & Wiring Connectors
Junction boxes and wiring connectors help keep heating control wiring tidy, secure, and accessible. These components are particularly useful when replacing older control panels or upgrading wiring infrastructure. Two of our most popular junction boxes are the Honeywell Home 10 Way Junction Box, which offers simple installation and secure connections for smaller systems, and for larger installations, the Junction Box - 16 Way provides ample space for multiple connections. A popular connector is the 3 to 5 way wiring connector.
Time & Temperature Control Packs
For those seeking an all-in-one solution, our Danfoss TS710 Time Switch & RET1001M Thermostat Pack combines both a time switch and a thermostat, providing precise control over both time and temperature in a single, convenient package.
What Are Central Heating Timers & Programmers?
Central heating timers and programmers control when a heating system operates, helping manage comfort, efficiency, and running costs. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are important differences:
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Time switches (timers) switch heating on and off at set times only
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Programmers offer more advanced scheduling, often with separate control of heating and hot water
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Programmable thermostats combine time and temperature control in one unit
The right choice depends on the boiler type, whether hot water needs to be controlled separately, and whether the installation is a new system or a like-for-like replacement.
How to Choose the Right Heating Control: Mechanical vs Digital vs Wireless
Understanding the existing wiring and boiler setup is key to selecting the correct controller.
Mechanical (analogue) time switches are commonly used as direct replacements in older systems. These 24-hour timers are simple to operate and ideal where minimal changes to wiring are required.
Digital time switches and programmers offer improved accuracy and flexible scheduling, including 5/2 or 7-day programmes. These are widely used in domestic installations where users want weekday and weekend control.
Wireless and RF controls are particularly suitable for combi boilers or retrofit work where running new cables is impractical. Wireless controls allow flexible thermostat placement and quicker installation.
When installing or replacing a heating timer or programmer, installers should consider the boiler type (combi, system, or conventional), channel requirements (heating only or heating plus hot water), existing wiring configuration, including switched lives and neutrals and compatibility with wiring centres or junction boxes.
Why Shop Central Heating Timers & Programmers from BES?
Buying heating controls from BES means working with a supplier that understands the realities of installation and maintenance work. With decades of experience serving the trade, we offer a carefully selected range that covers everything from legacy mechanical replacements to modern digital and wireless controls. Efficient order processing, next working day delivery options, and a straightforward 30-day returns policy help keep jobs on track.
Apart from our range of timers and programmers, we also stock a wide choice of central heating thermostats and control packs as part of our central heating controls range.
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Ensure your central heating system runs efficiently and according to your schedule with our range of timers and programmers. If you need assistance or more information on any of our products, contact our expert team at 0800 801090.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a timer and a programmer?
A timer generally controls on/off times only, while a programmer offers more detailed scheduling and often separate control for heating and hot water.
Which heating controls are best for combi boilers?
Wireless or clip-in controls are commonly used with combi boilers, as they simplify installation and reduce wiring requirements.
Can I replace an old mechanical timer with a digital programmer?
In many cases, yes, but wiring compatibility should always be checked before installation.
Do you stock replacement mechanical heating timers?
Yes, BES stocks a range of 24-hour mechanical and synchronous replacement time switches.
What is the difference between Drayton and Honeywell heating programmers?
Drayton heating programmers are commonly used for replacement installations, particularly where compatibility with older wiring layouts is essential. Honeywell Home programmers offer a broad range of digital options and are often specified where more advanced scheduling or long-term durability is required.
Are Danfoss heating controls suitable for replacement work?
Yes, Danfoss heating timers and programmers are widely used for both replacement and new installations. Many models are designed to replace older controls while offering improved digital interfaces and flexible programming options.
How do Siemens heating programmers compare to other brands?
Siemens heating programmers are known for precise time control and clear user interfaces. They are commonly specified in both domestic and light commercial environments where reliable scheduling and consistent performance are needed.
Which heating control brand is best for replacing older mechanical timers?
For direct replacements of mechanical or synchronous timers, installers often look for models that match existing wiring and mounting arrangements. Brands such as Drayton, Honeywell Home, Danfoss, and Siemens all offer suitable replacement options, depending on the original control and system layout.
Are different brands of heating timers interchangeable?
In many cases, heating timers and programmers can be swapped between brands, but wiring configurations, channel requirements, and boiler compatibility should always be checked before installation.