Your Guide to Creep Action Thermostats: How They Work and When to Use Them



Temperature regulation is a critical aspect of various industries. From manufacturing to consumer appliances and beyond, precise and stable temperature control can impact processes and outcomes. One piece of equipment that excels in providing accurate temperature control is the creep action thermostat. In this article, we will explore what creep action thermostats are, how they function, and the wide array of applications where they excel.

The Advantages of Creep Action Thermostats

At Calco Electric, we are proud to offer creep action thermostats that live up to the highest of performance expectations. These thermostats are renowned for their exceptional accuracy in maintaining a set temperature in many different types of appliances. Two specific benefits of this type of thermostat are as follows:
  • Precision and Accuracy - Creep action thermostats are designed to meet tight precision tolerances. They contain two dissimilar metals that are bound together. As the thermostat works to regulate the temperature, one of these metals expands faster than the other, creating a gradual, rounded arc. This gradual bending of the metal components allows for precise temperature control. A creep action thermostat employs a coil form of the metals, effectively eliminating the range of temperature fluctuation and ensuring that the temperature remains at the setpoint.
  • Sustained Response - Creep action thermostats offer the consistency of a sustained response. They feature a slow cutout set at a specific trip point. Their slow make and slow break action are triggered around the setpoint, which further contributes to their accuracy and reliability.

Types of Creep Action Thermostats

Within the category of creep action thermostats, there are a few different types that can be selected depending on the task at hand. Calco Electric offers a great variety, including the two categories listed below. Also, remember that the team at Calco is always available to help you find the right part for your needs, so you are welcome to reach out at any time for assistance.
  • JRMC, JRMD, and JRMD-E Creep Action Thermostats - These thermostats use a bimetal slow break and slow make mechanism to regulate temperatures and limit thermal activity. They are also available with gold diffused contacts, adding another layer of durability and precision to their functionality.
  • WAA2 Creep Action Thermostats - Designed for use in certain appliances, these thermostats can be found in medical cushions, car seats, and heating pads, all environments where steady temperature control is necessary.

Applications Where Creep Action Thermostats Excel

It’s helpful to understand the basics of how these thermostats work, but it’s even better to know where they can be deployed effectively. We aren’t going to be able to cover all possible applications in the list below, but this is a good starting point.
  • Medical Devices - A range of different medical devices rely on the use of creep thermostats to keep patients safe while maintaining a precise temperature.
  • HVAC Systems - Managing the temperature within an indoor space is an important job and creep thermostats can play a role in this setting, as well. Not only will such a thermostat keep the space more comfortable, but it can also help to cut down on energy consumption.
  • Refrigeration Units - Like HVAC, refrigeration systems need to hold a steady temperature. Big fluctuations could lead to safety concerns and would use far more energy than is needed for the task.
  • Household Appliances - Many different components that help a house to run smoothly rely on creep thermostats to operate accurately and safely.
  • Lab Equipment - Perhaps nowhere is accuracy more important than within a lab setting, which is why creep thermostats are used in lab devices that have to be as precise as possible.

How Can Calco Electric Serve You?

Creep thermostats are one of the many items we offer to our valued customers. Whatever it is you need, our experienced and knowledgeable team is ready and waiting to serve you. Contact us with any questions, or to place an order, and we’ll jump into action.