The operation of modern climate equipment is not complete without the use of thermostats. These are small devices thanks to which the user can control the microclimate parameters. In particular, such devices are used in sets of underfloor heating systems, air conditioners, boiler stations, etc. Today you can find a wide variety of device versions on the market of accessories for heating systems, but a mechanical thermostat is considered the most affordable, simple and reliable solution in this segment.
The principle of operation of the device
Classical models of this type work on the principle of changes in the structure of certain substances against the background of an increase or decrease in temperature. In this case, we are talking about gas mixtures enclosed inside the structure. Under the influence of temperature fluctuations, the expansion or reduction of the filling volume of the section in which the active substance is contained occurs. These processes act on the sensitive membrane, making appropriate adjustments to the readings. At the same time, a mechanical thermostat for heating serves not only to reflect the current temperature regime, but also allows the user to configure the device for a specific work program. Advanced control relays, for example, can be programmed, although this operating principle still applies for the most part to electronic models.
Varieties
The main sign of separation of models of this type is considered to be the installation method, although it is not the most important from the point of view of operational nuances. Nevertheless, manufacturers themselves distinguish wall and hanging devices. That is, the first ones are integrated into the wall niche and practically merge with the surface, and the mounted ones can be mounted in a rack or a special supporting structure. Again, in terms of operation, the presence or absence of a climate control sensor is more significant. A typical mechanical thermostat contains the very substance that determines the temperature regime directly in its housing. However, in modern models, even of a mechanical type, an external method for tracking microclimate parameters is increasingly found. This means that the thermostat is divided into two components: a sensor that records the temperature at the installation site, and a control relay.
Features of models for boilers
Domestic boiler plants are considered one of the most complex units in the heating equipment category. Therefore, the thermostat must work with a wide range of operating parameters. Moreover, it is in the maintenance of boilers that two- and three-channel models are often used. They allow you to separately control not just different parameters, but, in fact, the device. An illustration of this approach can be a device that simultaneously controls the functions of the boiler directly in the form of a combustion chamber, and in a separate order - a boiler water heating system. In addition, it is thermostats for heating boilers that are often produced with remote sensors and the possibility of programming.
Main characteristics
When evaluating thermostat parameters suitable for a particular case, several characteristics should be considered. The maximum load power will be basic, but the same thermostats for heating boilers with an indicator of 3.5 kW will quite fit for the most powerful household unit, so there are no special difficulties in this choice.
It is much more important to calculate the optimal temperature ranges with which a particular modification can work. For example, most indoor devices have a scale of 0 to 40 ° C. But if necessary, you can find versions that capture the negative range by an average of 10-15 degrees. Another important parameter is the body material. Usually a mechanical thermostat is made of plastic, but for harsh operating conditions it is worth considering the possibility of using a metal model, although it is heavier and, as a rule, more expensive.
Thermostat manufacturers
The market offers enough solutions for any needs, including those for boiler control requirements. In particular, the BMT 1 mechanical thermostat from the Ballu manufacturer has proven itself from the best side due to its functionality, reliability and high-quality assembly. True, this model has a fairly narrow range of operating temperatures from 10 to 30 ° C, so it may not be suitable for any boiler.
Electrolux offers its broader control over temperature conditions in its Basic ETB line. It is also worth paying attention to offers from companies DEVI, HEAT-PRO, TIMBERK with modifications of TMS, etc. But, if we discard the temperature scale, then the standard Ballu mechanical thermostat will outperform its competitors due to the low price tag of 700 rubles.
How to install the device?
First of all, preparatory measures are carried out, which may consist in creating a niche in the wall according to the type of outlet. Next, cabling is laid. It is important to consider that, in addition to connecting the main supply line, the device must be paired with the equipment. Another thing is that the same wire laying can be avoided by buying a wireless model. For example, modern convectors with a mechanical thermostat are already equipped with radio devices in the basic configurations, saving the user from unnecessary installation hassles. But, far from all units support the wireless principle of interaction with control equipment, and this nuance must be taken into account in advance. The same applies to the installation method of the remote sensor, which will also require careful preparation of a special point for fixation. Another thing is that the sensor will not require intervention in the wall. For him, it is enough to prepare the mounting bracket, on which a small case will be planted. All necessary accessories of this kind are usually included in the basic sets of thermostats.
How to use a mechanical thermostat?
Immediately after installation, you must turn on the equipment at the optimum temperature for the middle range. You should not expect a quick gain of the necessary indicators - for a boiler, for example, it can take several hours, depending on the version. Further operation will depend on the capabilities of the device itself. For example, the simplest room thermostat mechanical assumes only the possibility of turning on / off with the installation of the desired mode at the moment. More technological models can be configured for a week or even a month of operation with automatic change in operating indicators depending on the weather on the street or time of day. This technique works like a smart home component.
Conclusion
Against the backdrop of a massive shift to digital technology, it may seem strange to acquire a mechanical device. But there can be serious reasons for this. First of all, the independence of the device from the electronic principle of operation adds to its reliability. In addition, models of this type are cheaper and not so sensitive to failures in the wiring. The same convectors with a mechanical thermostat will not suffer in the event of a power surge or overload in the network. But you should take into account the negative factors of this choice. To the shortcomings of mechanics, experts attribute an error of 2-3 degrees and the sensitivity of the filling to physical influences. For example, even a light blow can affect the accuracy of readings in the future. But for the sake of justice, it should be noted and the desire of manufacturers to minimize these disadvantages. This is evidenced by the increase in accuracy through the use of modern element base, and the supply of buildings with additional protective coatings with water-repellent and shockproof materials.