Content Supplied The Underfloor Superstore
We regularly talk to customers who are bamboozled by the number of choices they face when it comes to selecting the thermostats for their underfloor heating system – Digital, Programmable, Wireless, Network capable and Smart controls are just a few of the options currently on offer so itʼs understandable that selecting the right system can be a headache.
Here we take a look at the options and explain in simple terms the proʼs and conʼs of each:
Dial Thermostats
As the name suggests these are thermostats that are controlled, quite simply, by using a dial to select the required temperature. This is the cheapest method of controlling your heating system but it also offers the least amount of features and because of the ease of turning the dial up and down on a whim can be inefficient when used with underfloor heating.
Pros – Cheap to install, simple to use.
Cons – Lack of features and can be inefficient when used with underfloor heating.
Digital Programmable Thermostats
A digital programmable thermostat allows the user to see important information including the current room temperature and the desired room temperature at a glance via the LCD display. A number of programs can be set per day or per week to suit the end users requirements and lifestyle habits. This enables efficiency gains as the heating is set to come on and go off as and when required rather than staying on for prolonged and unnecessary periods.
Pros – A number of features allows the end user to set programs specific to their needs.
Increases efficiency.
Cons – None, programmable thermostats are the ideal solution for controlling underfloor heating.
Smart Thermostats
A smart thermostat system allows the end user ultimate control over their heating system. Using app technology via a smart phone, tablet or computer, the heating system can be controlled from anywhere and smart systems promise additional energy savings of20-30%. Smart thermostats such as the Heatmiser Neo are sleek and contemporary in appearance and the additional features justify the higher up front cost according to the recent surge inpopularity for these types of systems.
Pros – Complete control over your heating system no matter where you are!
Cons – Additional cost may put some off.
Wireless Thermostats
Wiring conventional thermostats often requires the removal of floorboards or the chasing out of plaster board in walls. Often in refurbishment or retrofit projects or where such work is not possible wireless thermostats are the ideal solution. Connecting to a wireless receiver or wiring centre the thermostats can be located easily and systems such as the Heatmiser Wireless Thermostat range offer a wireless range of up to 100 metres. Itʼs important to be aware that the wireless receiver or wiring centre does need to be heard wired to the boiler to allow the system to work.
Pros – Perfect for retrofit applications
Cons – Cost for multi-zone systems can be expensive in comparison to hardwired
systems.
If you would like to discuss which thermostats may be suitable for you please call our sales team on 01530 414413. Weʼll be happy to talk through your options.
