Kasco De-Icer Thermostat Controller | C-20 Model
- MPN:
- 120350
Description
Automatically Control When Your Kasco De-Icer Runs
The Kasco C-20 De-Icer Controller combines an adjustable air-temperature thermostat with a 24-hour timer so you can control both when your de-icer is allowed to run and how cold it must be before it turns on.
Instead of operating your dock de-icer continuously throughout the winter, the Kasco C-20 lets you schedule operating periods and choose a temperature threshold. In normal automatic operation, the connected de-icer runs only when the timer is in an ON period and the outside air temperature is at or below the thermostat setting.
The Kasco C-20 is designed to control one 120V Kasco de-icer and is especially useful for docks, piers, boat slips, marinas, boathouses, pilings, and other waterfront areas where you want more control over winter de-icing operation.
Why Add a Kasco C-20 to Your Dock De-Icer?
The Timer and Thermostat Work Together
In normal AUTO operation, the Kasco C-20 energizes the de-icer only when both control conditions are satisfied.
First, the 24-hour timer must be inside one of your programmed ON periods. Second, the outdoor air temperature must be at or below the thermostat setting.
If either condition is not met, the connected de-icer remains off.
An indicator light illuminates when both controls are calling for operation and the de-icer outlet is energized.
0°F to 40°F Thermostat Range
Set the temperature threshold based on your local winter conditions and desired de-icing schedule.
24-Hour Mechanical Timer
Program operating periods throughout a full 24-hour day.
15-Minute Timer Segments
Each timer tripper represents 15 minutes. Longer operating periods help establish stronger water circulation for de-icing.
6°F Thermostat Differential
The thermostat shuts the de-icer off approximately 6°F above the temperature at which it turns on.
Need the de-icer too? Shop Kasco Dock De-Icers .
Features
Kasco C-20 Features
Adjustable Thermostat
Select an outdoor air-temperature setting between approximately 0°F and 40°F.
24-Hour Timer
Schedule de-icer operation at specific times during the day and night.
Automatic Operation
In AUTO mode, the Kasco C-20 runs the connected de-icer only when both the timer and thermostat conditions are met.
Temperature-Only Mode
Move the AUTO/ON switch to ON to bypass the timer and control operation using the thermostat.
Operating Indicator
The indicator light illuminates when the controller energizes the connected de-icer outlet.
Outdoor Enclosure
The Kasco C-20 is housed in an outdoor-use enclosure designed for vertical installation with the cover closed.
120V Operation
Designed for one compatible 120V Kasco De-Icer connected to a GFCI-protected 120V power source.
Power Cord Included
The Kasco C-20 includes an approximately 3-foot power cord for connection near the installation location.
How It Works
How the Kasco C-20 Decides When to Turn Your De-Icer On
The Kasco C-20 can use both its mechanical timer and outdoor-air thermostat to control your Kasco De-Icer.
Example
Suppose you set the Kasco C-20 thermostat to 25°F and program the timer for an overnight operating period.
- If it is 20°F and the timer is ON, the de-icer can run.
- If it is 35°F and the timer is ON, the thermostat keeps the de-icer off.
- If it is 20°F but the timer is OFF, the de-icer remains off in AUTO mode.
Programming
How to Set the Kasco C-20 Timer and Thermostat
- Set the current time.
Turn the clear inner timer dial clockwise until the clock displays the correct current time and the TIME NOW indicator lines up correctly. - Select the desired operating periods.
Push timer trippers toward the outer ring for the periods when you want the de-icer available to operate. - Use four trippers for one hour.
Each tripper represents approximately 15 minutes. Longer operating periods are generally preferable to rapid short cycling. - Set the thermostat.
Turn the thermostat dial to the outdoor temperature at which you want the de-icer to turn on. - Select AUTO for combined control.
In AUTO mode, both the timer and thermostat must call for operation before the de-icer turns on. - Observe the de-icing area daily.
Adjust the temperature and operating periods as weather, wind, snowfall, ice formation, and site conditions change.
Operating Modes
Use Time, Temperature, or Both
Time + Temperature
Set the AUTO/ON switch to AUTO. The de-icer operates only when the timer is ON and the air temperature is at or below the thermostat setting.
This is the standard Kasco C-20 operating method.
Temperature Only
Set the AUTO/ON switch to ON. This bypasses the timer and allows the thermostat to cycle the de-icer according to outdoor temperature.
Primarily Time Based
Set the switch to AUTO and turn the thermostat to its highest setting. The timer then becomes the primary operating control.
If the ambient temperature rises above the thermostat's highest setting, the de-icer will still shut off.
Specifications
Kasco C-20 Specifications
| Product | Kasco C-20 Timer & Thermostat De-Icer Control Panel |
|---|---|
| Kasco Part Number | 120350 |
| Primary Use | Automatic control of one compatible Kasco 120V De-Icer |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Units Controlled | 1 Kasco De-Icer |
| De-Icer Compatibility | 120V Kasco De-Icer models |
| Thermostat Range | Approximately 0°F to 40°F |
| Thermostat Differential | Approximately 6°F between ON and OFF temperatures |
| Thermostat Switching Tolerance | Approximately ±2.7°F |
| Timer | 24-hour mechanical timer |
| Timer Increment | 15 minutes per tripper |
| Recommended Minimum Operating Cycle | Approximately 1 hour |
| Control Modes | Combined time and temperature control or temperature-only operation |
| Indicator | Indicator light illuminates when the controlled outlet is energized |
| Power Cord | Approximately 3 ft nominal length |
| Installation | Upright on a vertical surface or post |
| Power Source | GFCI-protected 120V outlet required |
| Minimum Distance From Open Water | At least 5 ft |
| Outdoor Use | Yes, with enclosure properly mounted and closed |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Installation
How to Install the Kasco C-20 Controller
- Choose a vertical mounting location.
Mount the controller upright on a wall, post, or other secure vertical surface. - Keep it out of direct sunlight.
A shaded location provides a more accurate reading of outdoor ambient temperature and helps prevent internal heating. - Stay at least 5 feet from open water.
The Kasco C-20 should be installed a minimum of 5 feet from the open-water de-icing area. - Mount above ground moisture.
Position the enclosure high enough to reduce exposure to standing water, flooding, snow buildup, and ground moisture. - Use a GFCI-protected 120V outlet.
Install the controller close enough to the power source that the C-20 cord has sufficient slack and is not under tension. - Connect the de-icer.
Feed the de-icer power cord through the opening in the bottom of the enclosure and make sure the connection is fully seated without strain. - Install the enclosure closure plate.
Use the supplied closure plate to maintain the enclosure's outdoor-use integrity. - Allow the thermostat to acclimate.
After installation, allow at least one hour for the Kasco C-20 to reach the outdoor ambient temperature before evaluating thermostat operation. - Close the enclosure.
Operate the controller with the cover closed to help protect the internal components from moisture, weather, and salt air.
For complete installation details, review the Kasco C-20 Installation & Operation Manual .
Winter Operating Tips
Get Better Results From Your Kasco De-Icing System
The best Kasco C-20 settings depend on your climate, water depth, de-icer size, dock layout, wind exposure, snowfall, current, and how quickly ice forms around the structure.
Favor Longer Cycles
Longer operating periods generally build stronger localized circulation than many very short cycles.
Watch Overnight Conditions
Ice often forms faster during colder nighttime hours, so many installations benefit from additional overnight operating time.
Adjust After Snow or Wind
Wind, snow cover, and falling temperatures can increase freeze rates and require longer operating periods.
Observe Daily
Check the open-water area every day and adjust the Kasco C-20 settings when conditions change.
C-10 vs. C-20
Kasco C-10 vs. Kasco C-20 De-Icer Controllers
Both controllers automatically manage a 120V Kasco De-Icer, but the Kasco C-20 adds time-of-day control for more flexible winter operation.
| Feature | C-10 | Kasco C-20 |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Control | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature Range | 0°F to 80°F | 0°F to 40°F |
| 24-Hour Timer | No | Yes |
| Control by Time of Day | No | Yes |
| Primary Use | Temperature-based automatic control | Time and temperature-based automatic control |
| Power Cord | Approximately 8 ft | Approximately 3 ft |
| Voltage | 120V | 120V |
| De-Icers Controlled | 1 | 1 |
Choose the Kasco C-20 if you also want to determine what times of day the de-icer is allowed to operate.
View the Kasco C-10 Temperature Controller or compare Kasco de-icer thermostat and timer options .
Safety
Kasco C-20 De-Icer Controller Safety
Water and electricity require careful installation and operation. Follow the Kasco C-20 instructions, de-icer instructions, electrical codes, and local safety requirements.
- Connect the Kasco C-20 only to a properly grounded, GFCI-protected 120V circuit.
- Use the controller with one compatible 120V Kasco De-Icer only.
- Mount the controller at least 5 feet from open water.
- Keep the controller upright on a secure vertical mounting surface.
- Operate with the enclosure cover closed.
- Do not mount the thermostat in direct sunlight or next to a heat source.
- Do not lift or move the controller or de-icer by its electrical cord.
- Never operate the de-icer dry on shore or on a dock.
- Never enter the water while the de-icer is operating or plugged in.
- Disconnect power before servicing or removing the de-icer or controller.
- Mark open-water and thin-ice areas with appropriate warnings and safety measures.
Care & Storage
Protect Your Kasco C-20 Between De-Icing Seasons
Keep the Door Closed
Operate the controller with the enclosure closed to reduce exposure of the timer and thermostat components to moisture and salt air.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Excessive solar heating can cause the thermostat to sense a warmer temperature than the surrounding outdoor air.
Store Indoors Off-Season
When the Kasco C-20 is not being used during warmer months, store it indoors and away from salt air when practical.
Inspect Before Winter
Check the enclosure, cord, plug, timer, thermostat, mounting hardware, and de-icer connection before putting the system back into service.
Warranty
Kasco C-20 2-Year Limited Warranty
The Kasco C-20 is backed by a 2-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship under normal use and service.
Keep your original purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
Need Kasco services, troubleshooting help, replacement-part guidance, or assistance with a Kasco product purchased from Weeders Digest? Contact Weeders Digest Product Support or call 877-224-4899.
FAQs
Kasco C-20 FAQs
What does the Kasco C-20 do?
The Kasco C-20 automatically controls one 120V Kasco De-Icer using an outdoor air-temperature thermostat and a 24-hour timer.
What temperature range does the Kasco C-20 use?
The Kasco C-20 thermostat operates over an approximately 0°F to 40°F temperature range.
Does the Kasco C-20 have a timer?
Yes. The Kasco C-20 includes a mechanical 24-hour timer that allows you to program operating periods throughout the day and night.
How precise is the timer?
Each timer tripper represents approximately 15 minutes. Longer operating periods are generally better suited to establishing effective de-icing circulation than repeated short cycles.
Do the timer and thermostat both have to be on?
In normal AUTO operation, yes. The timer must be inside an ON period and the outdoor temperature must be at or below the thermostat setting before the Kasco C-20 energizes the de-icer.
Can I bypass the timer?
Yes. Set the AUTO/ON switch to ON to bypass the timer. The de-icer will then cycle according to the thermostat setting.
Can I use only the timer?
You can make the timer the primary control by setting the switch to AUTO and turning the thermostat to its highest setting. If outdoor temperature rises above the thermostat's highest setting, the controller will still shut the de-icer off.
What is the 6°F thermostat differential?
The Kasco C-20 does not turn on and off at exactly the same temperature. If it turns on at the selected temperature, it shuts off approximately 6°F warmer. This helps prevent rapid short cycling.
How accurate is the thermostat?
The switching point can vary approximately ±2.7°F from the actual outdoor ambient temperature. Observe the installation and fine-tune the setting as needed.
How many de-icers can one Kasco C-20 control?
One. The Kasco C-20 is designed to control one compatible 120V Kasco De-Icer.
Does the Kasco C-20 work with a 240V de-icer?
No. The Kasco C-20 is intended for 120V Kasco De-Icers.
Does the Kasco C-20 need a GFCI outlet?
Yes. Install the Kasco C-20 near a properly grounded, GFCI-protected 120V outlet.
Does the Kasco C-20 have built-in GFCI protection?
The Kasco C-20 must be connected to a GFCI-protected 120V power source. Do not use the controller as a substitute for the required protected circuit.
How far should the controller be from open water?
Install the Kasco C-20 at least 5 feet from open water.
Can I mount the Kasco C-20 in direct sunlight?
It is not recommended. Direct sunlight can heat the enclosure and affect the thermostat reading. Mount the controller in a shaded location away from other heat sources.
How should the Kasco C-20 be mounted?
Mount it upright on a secure vertical surface or post. Keep the enclosure above areas where ground moisture or flooding could reach it.
How long should I wait after installing it before testing the thermostat?
Allow at least one hour for the Kasco C-20 to acclimate to the outdoor ambient temperature.
Can the Kasco C-20 reduce de-icer electrical usage?
It can reduce unnecessary operating time by preventing the de-icer from running outside your programmed time periods or when outdoor temperatures are above the selected threshold. Actual energy savings depend on the settings, weather, de-icer model, and site conditions.
Should I use lots of short timer cycles?
Longer operating cycles are generally preferred over many short cycles because they allow the de-icer more time to establish water circulation.
Do I still need to check my de-icer every day?
Yes. Automated Kasco C-20 control does not replace regular observation. Check the de-icing area daily and adjust settings as weather and ice conditions change.
Can I leave the Kasco C-20 outside all summer?
For longer service life, store the Kasco C-20 indoors and away from salt air when it is not being used during the off-season.
What warranty does the Kasco C-20 have?
The Kasco C-20 includes a 2-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship under normal use and service. Keep your original purchase receipt.
Where can I get Kasco services or product support?
For Kasco services, troubleshooting help, product questions, or assistance with Kasco equipment purchased from Weeders Digest, contact Weeders Digest Product Support at 877-224-4899.
What is the difference between the Kasco C-10 and Kasco C-20?
The C-10 controls a de-icer based on outdoor temperature only and operates over a 0°F to 80°F thermostat range. The Kasco C-20 adds a 24-hour timer and uses a 0°F to 40°F thermostat range, allowing you to control both temperature and time of operation.
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