Historically, before electronic modulation circuits became common, lower heat settings were achieved by connecting a 240 Volt element across 120 Volts for reduced output.
The current drawn by the clock pales in comparison.
A typical transposition sequence.
Highest setting, = #1.
#1. Two 240 Volt elements fed 240 Volts
#2. The larger 240 Volt element fed 240 Volts.
#3. The smaller 240 Volt element fed 240 Volts.
#4. Two 240 Volts elements fed 120 Volts.
#5. The larger 240 Volt element fed 120 Volts.
#6. The smaller 240 Volt element fed 120 Volts.
#7. two 240 Volt elements in series on 120 Volts.
The more mature fellows will remember the once common 8 position switch controlling electric range elements.
That was 7 heats and off.
Bill
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Ohm's law
Not just a good idea;
It's the LAW!