SENSORS/ACTUATORS

ESP32 MicroPython Control Heating Element

This tutorial instructs you how to control a heating element with the ESP32 and MicroPython. In detail, we will learn:

How a heating element works
How to connect a heating element to ESP32
How to write MicroPython code for ESP32 to control a heating element

Hardware Preparation

1	×	ESP-WROOM-32 Dev Module
1	×	USB Cable Type-C
1	×	Relay
1	×	Heating Element
1	×	12V Power Adapter
1	×	DC Power Jack
1	×	Jumper Wires
1	×	Breadboard
1	×	(Recommended) Screw Terminal Expansion Board for ESP32

Or you can buy the following sensor kits:

1	×	DIYables Sensor Kit (30 sensors/displays)
1	×	DIYables Sensor Kit (18 sensors/displays)

Disclosure: Some of the links provided in this section are Amazon affiliate links. We may receive a commission for any purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.
Additionally, some of these links are for products from our own brand, DIYables.

Overview of Heating Element

Pinout

A heating element typically has two pins:

Connect the positive (+) pin (red) to the 12V DC power supply.
Connect the negative (-) pin (black) to the ground (GND) of the DC power supply.

How to Control Heating Element

When a 12V heating element is connected to a 12V power source, it produces heat. To control the heating element with an ESP32, we use a relay. The ESP32 sends signals to the relay, which then controls the heating element. If you need more information on how a relay works, its pin configuration, or how to set it up, check out the ESP32 MicroPython Relay tutorial.

Wiring Diagram

How to connect ESP32 and controls heating element using breadboard (powered via USB cable)

This image is created using Fritzing. Click to enlarge image

How to connect ESP32 and controls heating element using breadboard (powered via Vin pin)

This image is created using Fritzing. Click to enlarge image

How to connect ESP32 and controls heating element using screw terminal block breakout board (powered via USB cable)

How to connect ESP32 and controls heating element

How to connect ESP32 and controls heating element using screw terminal block breakout board (powered via Vin pin)

How to wire ESP32 and controls heating element

ESP32 MicroPython Code

This code switches the heating element ON for five seconds and then turns it OFF for five also, doing this continuously.

""" This ESP32 MicroPython code was developed by newbiely.com This ESP32 MicroPython code is made available for public use without any restriction For comprehensive instructions and wiring diagrams, please visit: https://newbiely.com/tutorials/esp32-micropython/esp32-micropython-controls-heating-element """ from machine import Pin import time RELAY_PIN = 16 # The ESP32 pin GPIO16 connected to the Heating Element via relay pin # Initialize the relay pin as an output relay = Pin(RELAY_PIN, Pin.OUT) # Infinite loop while True: relay.value(1) # Turn on Heating Element for 5 seconds time.sleep(5) relay.value(0) # Turn off Heating Element for 5 seconds time.sleep(5)

Detailed Instructions

Here’s instructions on how to set up and run your MicroPython code on the ESP32 using Thonny IDE:

Make sure Thonny IDE is installed on your computer.
Confirm that MicroPython firmware is loaded on your ESP32 board.
If this is your first time using an ESP32 with MicroPython, check out the ESP32 MicroPython Getting Started guide for step-by-step instructions.
Connect the ESP32 board to the heating element according to the provided diagram.
Connect the ESP32 board to your computer with a USB cable.
Open Thonny IDE on your computer.
In Thonny IDE, go to Tools Options.
Under the Interpreter tab, choose MicroPython (ESP32) from the dropdown menu.
Make sure the correct port is selected. Thonny IDE usually detects it automatically, but you might need to select it manually (like COM12 on Windows or /dev/ttyACM0 on Linux).
Copy the provided MicroPython code and paste it into Thonny's editor.
Save the code to your ESP32 by:

Clicking the Save button or pressing Ctrl+S.
In the save dialog, choose MicroPython device.
Name the file main.py.

Click the green Run button (or press F5) to execute the script.
Check the temperature of the heating element.

Be careful, as handling this incorrectly can cause burns or even start a fire at home. Your safety is very important. If you are unsure, don’t attempt to do it yourself—seek help from someone experienced. We are not responsible for your safety.

Code Explanation

The explanation can be found in the comments section above this ESP32 MicroPython code.

Video Tutorial

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