How to Use Relays in Your Wiring Projects

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An electrical system is only as reliable as its components. One easy way to increase system reliability and performance is by using relays to switch devices (lights, fuel pumps, fans, etc.) on and off. A relay is an electro-mechanical switch. An electro-magnet (also called a coil) is used to pull a set of contacts, or pins, together.

Why not just use an ordinary on/off switch, you ask? Here are some reasons why relays are better than switches:

1. A correctly wired relay will provide the shortest electrical path (i.e. shortest wire length) between the battery and the device(s) controlled by the relay. Combined with the proper gauge wire, this will minimize the voltage drop between the battery and the device, allowing it to function at peak performance levels.

3. Relays allow you to use the proper size fuse for each device, and to place the fuses closer to the battery.

4. If you use a vehicle’s stock wiring and switches to control aftermarket devices like high output lighting, relays will not overload or stress the OEM components. The average automotive relay can also handle a much higher current load than a switch (about 30 amps vs. 3-20 amps).

Relay Types
It’s important to know a relay’s pin configuration and function before connecting devices to it. Many automotive relays are similar in appearance and pin configuration and will plug into the same relay socket, but are completely different in the switching duties they perform.

The most common type of relay used in automotive applications is the single pole/ double throw (SPDT). Also known as the Bosch relay, the SPDT has a common, movable contact that moves between two fixed contacts, termed Normally Open and Normally Closed. When the relay is off, the common and Normally Closed contacts are connected. When the relay is engergized the common is switched over the the Normally Open contact.

Another type of relay is the single pole/single throw (SPST). The SPST is often found in the wiring harnesses for aftermarket lighting; it has a common contact and two Normally Open contacts that are internally connect.  When the switch is activated, the contacts are connected.

When power is removed from a relay’s electro-magnet, a high voltage spike occurs. This spike can hurt on-board computers or other sensitive electronics. If your system has such devices, it’s a good idea to use replays with a internal shorting diode. The diode forces the voltage spike back into the electro-magnet, where it dissipates as heat.

Relays can help you make an electrical system perform better and run reliably. That’s why you’ll find them in most quality aftermarket lighting systems and wiring harnesses. Once you use them, you’ll wonder why you ever did without ‘em!