Heating controls play a crucial role in ensuring your property home stays comfortably warm while minimising energy consumption. By effectively using these controls, you can reduce your heating bills and lower your carbon footprint.
What are Heating Controls?
Heating controls encompass a range of devices, including timers, thermostats, and plumbing and electronic components, that regulate when your heating system operates and at what temperature. They vary from traditional mechanical styles to modern, internet-connected controls that can learn your habits and adjust settings automatically.
What Heating Controls Should I Have?
A basic central heating system typically requires a programmer (time control), at least one room thermostat, and thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) if you have radiators. For systems with a hot water cylinder, a cylinder thermostat is also essential. Beyond these core components, numerous additional features can enhance your heating system's efficiency and ease of use.
Types of Heating Controls
- Programmer (Timer Control): Schedules when your heating system turns on and off.
- Room Thermostat: Measures room temperature and controls the heating system accordingly.
- Programmable Room Thermostat: Combines the functions of a programmer and room thermostat.
- Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs): Control the temperature of individual radiators.
- Programmable TRVs: Offer programmable settings for each radiator.
- Smart Heating Controls: Connect to the internet and can be controlled remotely.
- Hot Water Thermostats (Cylinder Thermostats): Regulate the temperature of your hot water cylinder.
- Boiler Thermostat: Controls the temperature of the water in your boiler.
- Weather Compensation: Adjusts heating output based on outdoor temperature.
- Load Compensation: Adjusts heating output based on the number of radiators in use.
- Boiler Interlock: Prevents simultaneous operation of heating and hot water.
- Heating Zone Controls: Allow for separate temperature control in different areas of your home.
