Energy prices are constantly growing, so for many issues of energy saving are extremely acute. Therefore, manufacturers are developing a huge amount of heating equipment that can save fuel. But to buy such a unit will not be enough. To spend resources more rationally, you need a temperature controller or thermostat. This device will allow you to keep the set temperature in the room. There are thermostats not only for boilers, but also regulators for radiators, regulators for water, for soldering equipment. Consider the features and principle of operation of these devices.
Thermostats for heating equipment
In order to be able to control the level of energy consumption in heating equipment, they are equipped with heating temperature controllers. These devices make it possible to spend energy more efficiently by switching off the boiler when the room temperature reaches the desired level set by the user in advance. There are regulators for electric boilers, gas and even solid fuel. They produce regulators for convectors, as well as a wide variety of heaters.
In order to achieve economical operation of the heating boiler, the regulator will start the unit when the coolant temperature drops lower than the set value. The boiler will shut off when the set value is reached. This method will avoid the increased consumption of gas or other fuel, when in some rooms the windows face the sunny side and in order to heat them, less thermal energy is needed than for other rooms.
Even if you lower the temperature slightly, within one to two degrees, the level of energy consumption will decrease by four to six percent.
In addition, with the help of a temperature controller, you can select the mode of operation of the boiler, in which the temperature regime in the absence of people or at night will be lower. Due to this, you can significantly save. Electricity and gas consumption are reduced by 30 percent or more.
Therefore, if the boiler is not equipped with a built-in thermostat, you must definitely purchase it separately and install it. A small device will help solve the problems of energy overruns.
Varieties of thermostats for boilers
If you equip the heating unit with this device, you can maintain the climate with high accuracy. Elements control the operation of the heating system using actuators. Electromechanical and electronic temperature controllers can be distinguished . The mechanical thermostat has a button to turn it on or off. There is also a rotary lever for adjusting the temperature regime.
Electronic devices are more perfect, accurate and intuitive to use. They allow you to adjust the daily temperature cycles. So, the boiler will automatically switch to the user-defined mode. Devices depending on the model can regulate the entire heating system, or individual heating units. The classification includes wired devices and wireless with remote control.
Features of the mechanical thermostat
These devices depend on the quality of the conductors, and should also have reliable protection against mechanical damage of various kinds. The quality of the signal that is supplied to the controller greatly depends on this. During installation, there may be problems with masking the signal line.
Wireless devices
In the case of a wireless boiler temperature controller, the signal is transmitted at a radio frequency. The device is equipped with two blocks:
- The first is installed next to the boiler and connected to special terminals on the boiler.
- The second is installed indoors.
Blocks communicate with each other via a dedicated communication channel. The control unit has a display and a keyboard for setting.
Digital and analog instruments
Depending on the level of automation, the wireless thermostat can be analog or digital. The latest equipment is based on microcircuits, due to which the device is capable of fixing and working in several modes. Analog temperature controllers are controlled by a mechanical controller that is connected to a rheostat.
Application and arrangement of mechanical thermostats
Most often, such devices are found in gas heating installations. This can be explained by the fact that most manufacturers of boilers make devices that are compatible with mechanical regulators.
You can make a thermostat with your own hands. It will not be more complicated than an electronic temperature regulator of a soldering iron on triacs or other elements.
Mechanical thermostat is arranged as follows. Inside it there is a special membrane, which is filled with a special gas. When the temperature deviates from the norm, the volume of gas inside the membrane changes. It triggers the closing / opening mechanism of the boiler power systems. This is the simplest, but widely applicable method of controlling the boiler, when the work depends on the temperature of the air in the room, and not the coolant.
Using a mechanical temperature controller, the user can set the desired temperature by turning the knob with the divisions. It is connected to the membrane. The walls of the membrane approach or move away from the control contacts - this is how the temperature regime is set in which the contact will connect or break.
Market Review
Temperature regulators for residential premises from the Siemens company have proven themselves excellently. So, the models RAA21, RAA31 have a wide range of settings. The equipment has a nice design and is installed as a light switch. At the same time, the integrity of the interior is not violated. As for the cost, the estimated price is about one and a half thousand rubles.
Benefits of Electronic Wireless Thermostats
Programmable thermostats allow not only to control the operation of the heating system. The management process is remote. You can set the operation mode not only from temperature, but also from the time of day.
By acquiring such a solution, one can count on serious energy savings. If you buy an expensive device, then it is able to recoup itself within two seasons.
Most modern models can work according to the GSM standard. This means that the boiler can be controlled remotely using instant SMS messages. More advanced models allow you to control boilers even via the Internet. Also, manufacturers are developing applications for smartphones.
Baxi
One of the most promising products is the thermostat from Baxi. The device allows you to adjust the temperature in various rooms. In addition, the most economical operation of the boiler is provided with this device. The cost of the device model AURATON 2030 RTH is approximately seven thousand rubles.
Thermostats for electric boilers
Electricity for the operation of heating equipment can also be saved using thermostats. Even low-cost models can save up to 30 percent of electricity. With the help of a thermostat, chaotic on and off of boilers can be eliminated. You can determine the optimal temperature regime, operate the boiler in a simplified mode and ensure complete operation safety.
Solid fuel boilers and thermostats
The efficiency of this equipment depends on the volume of air that is supplied to the combustion chambers. A special damper is used to adjust the air. The more it is open, the more intense the burning process will be. Accordingly, the temperature of the coolant will increase.
The temperature controller allows you to change the position of the damper, thereby regulating the temperature of the water or antifreeze in the heating system. When it grows, a special rod of a special alloy begins to increase. Due to this, a lever is actuated that changes the position of the shutter.
Thermostats for radiators
As you know, the temperature in different rooms in the house cannot and should not be the same. In addition, it is not necessary to support one or another mode. For example, in a bedroom it is better to lower the temperature to 18 degrees. This will in the best way affect the quality of sleep.
The temperature controller on the radiator will allow you to create certain temperature conditions in different rooms. Also, the device saves the resource of heating equipment and reduces the amount of consumables that are needed during the maintenance process. It is possible, without turning off the riser, to block radiators in the event of an accident.
Three types of these devices can be distinguished:
- Mechanical, where the adjustment of the coolant flow is carried out manually.
- An electronic device that uses a remote temperature controller sensor.
- Semi-electronic. Adjustment is carried out by a thermal head.
What is the best choice for living space? Mechanical devices are notable for their low cost, ease of use, clarity and reliability. In the process of use there is no need for additional electricity. Adjustment is carried out by changing the amount of coolant entering the heating system. This controls the heat transfer of the radiator. It is an excellent regulator of air temperature.
Electronic controllers can be of two types: closed and open. The first units have no automatic temperature detection function. They are manually configured. The temperature that will be maintained in the room is regulated.
Open models are programmed. For example, if you lower the temperature in the room by only a few degrees, the operating mode may change. To trigger certain modes automatically, a timer is provided.
Finally
As you can see, thermostats are the necessary devices in the heating system of a private house or apartment. They allow you to create the necessary microclimate in the living room and save energy or fuel. They must be installed in the heating system of the house and apartment. The temperature controller in the heating system will allow the owner not to overpay for energy. In this case, the temperature in the living room will always be comfortable and stable.