Contactors

Contactors are electrically operated switches that let a low-power control circuit switch a much larger load on and off. Our range covers Garo modular contactors in 20A 2 pole normally open and normally closed, 24A and 32A 4 pole normally open, a 40A single pole modular contactor and a 415V 25A triple pole contactor for motors and three phase plant.

Trade buyers get account pricing, and stock contactors ordered before 5pm on any weekday are delivered the following working day across NI and ROI.

TC1-D2510N7 In-Stock

TP 415V 25A Contactor

£24.00 inc. VAT

GK20-2NC In-Stock

Garo 20A 2P NC Modular Contactor

£18.19 inc. VAT

GK20-2NO Ships in 3-5 days

Garo 20A 2P NO Modular Contactor

£18.19 inc. VAT

GK24-4NO In-Stock

Garo 24A 4P NO Modular Contactor

£24.26 inc. VAT

GK32-4NO In-Stock

GARO 32A 4P NO Modular Contactor

£33.12 inc. VAT

GK40-1NO In-Stock

40A 1P NO Modular Contactor

£52.93 inc. VAT

How to choose the right contactor

Contactors appear wherever a timer, thermostat, push button or BMS output needs to control a load heavier than its own contacts can handle. Typical uses include water heating, lighting banks, heaters, pumps and motors.

Modular or panel contactors

Modular contactors - DIN rail devices sized to sit alongside MCBs in a consumer unit or distribution board. Ideal for lighting, immersion heaters and heating loads.
Panel or motor contactors - such as the 415V 25A triple pole unit, designed for motor starting and industrial control panels, often paired with an overload relay.

Key specifications

Current rating - match to the load and its utilisation category; motors and lamp loads are harder on contacts than purely resistive heating.
Number of poles - 1, 2 or 4 poles depending on whether you are switching single-phase or three phase circuits.
Contact arrangement - normally open (NO) closes when the coil is energised; normally closed (NC) opens when energised.
Coil voltage - must match the control supply.

Installation tips

Protect the load circuit with a suitably rated MCB and keep control and power wiring clearly identified. Allow ventilation space between modular contactors, as they produce some heat when energised. Many installers pair a contactor with a DIN rail time switch from our control devices range, or with overload relays and push buttons from control and automation. Space can be found in our boards and enclosures. Follow the manufacturer's wiring diagrams and current wiring regulations.

Why buy from Meteor Electrical

Every contactor comes with the manufacturer's warranty. We hold stock of 5,000+ products at Cookstown, offer Click & Collect at our trade counter and deliver free on orders above £30 / €35 ex VAT.

FAQ's Ask Your Own Question

What are Contactors?: A contactor is an electrical device which is used for switching an electrical circuit on or off. Typically controlled by a circuit which has a much lower power level than the switched circuit.
Why are Contactors used?: Contactors are used for high power circuits/applications. The purpose of contractors is to allow a lower voltage and current to switch a higher power circuit. Contactors are able to switch higher power loads on and off for many cycles.
What is the difference between Contactors and Relays?: Contactors are larger in size in comparison to relays. Contactors are used in circuits with higher current carrying capacity whereas, relays are used in circuits with lower current carrying capacity.
What is Normally Open in Contractor?: Normally Open (NO) is a contact which does not flow current in its normal state. Providing operating power when the contactor is energized will close the contact allowing the current to flow.
What is Normally Closed in Contractor?: Normally Closed (NC) is a contact that flows current in the closed condition. In normally closed switched, the contacts are closed which connects the switch which means they are switched “on”.
What factors should be considered when choosing contactors?: When choosing a contactor, you should consider:

The operating voltage

The size of contacts

Number of operations

Ambient temperature

Type of load supplied
What coil voltage do I need for a contactor?: The coil voltage must match the voltage of the control circuit that will energise it, commonly 230V AC in domestic and light commercial boards. Panel contactors may also be offered with lower voltage coils for control systems. Check the coil rating printed on the device and in the manufacturer's data before wiring it in.
Can a modular contactor switch an immersion heater or storage heaters?: Yes, this is one of the most common uses for a modular contactor. A time switch or thermostat drives the coil, and the contactor's main contacts carry the heater current. Make sure the contactor's resistive load rating exceeds the heater current and that the circuit is protected by a correctly sized breaker.
Why does my modular contactor hum?: A faint hum is normal for many AC contactors while the coil is energised, caused by the magnetic core. A loud buzz or chatter can indicate low control voltage, dirt on the magnet faces or a failing coil. Isolate the supply and have the device checked, replacing it if the noise persists.