How is the heat anticipator setting determined for a thermostat with an adjustable anticipator?

The correct answer relates to determining the heat anticipator setting through measuring the current drawn by the parts in the circuit directly fed by the thermostat. A heat anticipator is designed to improve the efficiency of a heating system by interrupting the heating cycle just before the space reaches the desired temperature.

To set the anticipator correctly, you need to measure the current that the system components are drawing when the thermostat is calling for heat. This current measurement is essential because it allows for precise adjustment of the anticipator to ensure that the heater turns off at the right moment, preventing overshooting the set temperature.

Setting the anticipator based on the current ensures that it reflects the actual operational characteristics of the heating system in use, leading to better temperature control and increased comfort levels within the space being heated. This method directly correlates the anticipator’s setting with the operational needs of the system, making it a reliable approach for effective temperature management.