Save Money with the Right Heating Controls

Millions of homeowners waste significant amounts of fuel by using incorrect control settings so don't make the same mistake! For those looking to cut costs and save energy, installing the correct heating controls with an A-rated boiler can save you up to 23% on your heating bills. Follow our simple heating control guide so that you can run your central heating system cheaply and efficiently.

What are heating controls?

Heating controls are a vital part of your boiler-powered central heating system. They regulate the temperature of your home and work by automatically turning the heating on and off based on settings input by the user. Ideally, your full set of heating controls should include a timer or programmer, a room thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves.

Timers

Timers are the most basic type of heating control available. They switch the heating and hot water On and Off over a 24 hour period. Want your heating to turn on once or twice a day without having to lift a finger? Then a basic timer is most suitable for you.

Programmers

For those with a more varied day-to-day pattern, a programmable thermostat is a better option. Unlike a timer that works by setting the heating at the same times every day, a programmer allows you to turn on the heating at different times for different days of the week. With an easy-to-use digital interface, they are a simple way to maintain greater control over your heating system.

Common programmer options include:

5/2 Day Central Heating programmers 1 heating setting for the 5 weekdays, 1 heating setting for the weekend.

7 Day Central Heating Programmer different settings for every day of the week.

Room Thermostats

Whilst a programmer is a master switch that turns the boiler on and off, a room thermostat lets you determine how warm you want your room to be. It works by monitoring the temperature of the room and turns the boiler on and off to maintain your desired temperature. If you fancy a change in temperature, simply alter the thermostat settings manually.

Programmable Room Thermostats

Programmable room thermostats offer maximum flexibility and are brilliant options for homes where occupancy is varied throughout the day or week. They allow different temperatures to be set for different periods of time and standard timing periods include 24 hour and 7 day. Most even provide a night setback feature so you can maintain a comfortable room temperature throughout the night. For a fuss-free installation, wireless models offer reduced fitting costs and prevent damage to the decor. Alternatively, a wired model means you never have to worry about replacing the battery from time to time.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats are the latest innovation in heating technology and promise a whole new level of heating control. They connect to your home's internet and give you the luxury of controlling your heating from your smartphone, tablet or desktop. The most premium models can even learn your heating habits and independently set your preferred temperatures at particular times of the day. Able to monitor your heating usage and stop you spending more than you have to, they are a must-have for the cost-conscious homeowner.

Popular Smart Thermostats include:

Nest Learning Thermostat

Worcester Wave

Heatmiser NeoAir Smart Thermostat

Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)

It is important to install a TRV on each radiator within your home so can control the temperature of individual rooms. If you don't frequent the guest bedroom much, then choose a lower TRV setting to save money and reduce your energy consumption. TRVs do not control the boiler, but work by controlling the flow of hot water to the radiator to maintain your desired temperature.

Browse the range of heating controls available at PlumbNation here.