The thermostat for the boiler not only saves our money by reducing the volume of gas, but also increases the life of the equipment. Such a device is definitely worth having in service, but what should it be?
How does the operation of a gas boiler with a thermostat change?
The diversity today is simply amazing. They have many modifications, operate on various types of fuel. But it is very important to ensure the correct management of such units. This will reduce energy consumption, and therefore reduce costs, extend the life of the equipment and achieve an optimal microclimate in every room. All these tasks are within the power of special temperature controllers.
Gas boilers have a cyclical scheme and turn on after the temperature of the water or other coolant drops to a certain value. At the same time, the rate of heating and cooling of the water in the system and the air in the room is different. Often the room still has the right temperature, and the coolant in the system has already cooled down, so the gas boiler burner turns on. This leads to an undesirable change in the microclimate, excessive fuel consumption and wear of the heating equipment. It is inconvenient to regulate this process manually. By installing a special device, you will avoid such problems.
These devices are equipped with a sensor that measures the temperature in the room. You yourself set its optimal values, and as soon as it gets cooler in the house, the device immediately turns on the pump and starts the gas boiler. After exceeding the specified threshold, the heating equipment is automatically turned off.
What can be a thermostat for a boiler?
Today, the choice of such devices is quite large, you can find wired and remote models, programmable and simple, mechanical or electronic. Depending on the type and number of functions, the cost will differ. Now let's look at the main differences between existing thermostats.
The simplest and cheapest, of course, are mechanical models, and this is precisely their main advantage. Such equipment is easy to operate and relatively easy to repair. And the probability of failure is reduced to a minimum. The more expensive is electronic equipment, which is also very unpretentious.
But programmable temperature controllers are already complex devices. To install them, configure them correctly and change the parameters, you will have to tinker a bit. However, having done these operations 1-2 times, then you will easily cope with similar tasks. They provide more precise control, have many functions. For example, in some models, you can set the desired temperature in the "day" and "night" modes or program the heating system depending on the days of the week. The remote control is very convenient. True, all this will affect the cost of the device.
If you prefer wired thermostats, pay special attention to installation. It is important to ensure uninterrupted communication between the control device and the heating equipment. Wireless regulators provide start-up and shutdown of the gas boiler using a radio signal from the control point to the executive one. The first is installed in the selected room, and the second directly on the boiler.
Is it difficult to install the sensor?
The maximum efficiency of thermostats for gas boilers is possible only after proper installation. What is so difficult here? Let's run through the instructions.
How to install a thermostat for a gas boiler - step by step diagram
Step 1: Choosing a thermostat
It is desirable that the thermostat is of the same company as the boiler. This will greatly simplify the installation process. If you decide to use wired sensors, then they must be installed before the repair work begins, otherwise you will have to damage the finish in order to lay the cable. It is also necessary to calculate the heated area before buying a device, this will help to avoid equipment downtime.
Step 2: Choosing a Location
When it comes to remote devices that are installed anywhere, it is important to choose the right room. It is advisable to choose the most visited, for example, the living room. Sometimes it is placed in the coldest room, it all depends on the needs. The sensor must be located in an open area. It should be excluded from cluttering it with furniture, curtains and other household items. It is also not allowed to place in the vicinity of electrical and heating appliances. It is also undesirable to expose the device to sunlight or drafts. If valves with thermal heads are installed in the room where the control sensor of the thermostat is installed, then they must be replaced with ordinary ones with manual adjustment. Otherwise, they may distort the readings of the device, and the system will not work correctly.
Step 3: Connection
First you need to carefully read the attached instructions, diagram and act only in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. You can connect the device either using the terminal on the gas equipment or by connecting the cable. It all depends on the chosen model. The control element must be placed at a height of 1.5 meters from the floor and on the inner wall. This is due to the fact that warm air is at the top, cold air, on the contrary, is concentrated from below, and the outer walls are colder. Before connecting, be sure to de-energize the object, and then connect zero, phase and ground.
Step 4: Setting up
Now you need to set the required parameters. Usually there are buttons on the front panel of the device, with their help the necessary settings are made. In this case, the technical documentation of the device is again useful, which describes the programming process in detail. The step and heating temperature are set. There is also a thermostat delay function. For example, with short-term drafts, the device detects them and does not turn on. More expensive models may have a number of other options.
.If you are in doubt about whether you need to purchase expensive equipment, then you can always experience the effect on cheaper and simpler mechanical models. Avoid downtime and replace batteries in a timely manner.
An integral part of the heating system of a modern house is automatic control equipment. Among the owners of houses, cottages and apartments, room thermostats and programmers are gaining popularity, which allow you to control energy consumption by maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Types of thermal control in heating systems
Regarding the principle, thermal control is carried out in three types:
- by coolant temperature;
- according to the air temperature in the room;
- according to the heat loss of the dwelling.
Coolant temperature control is relevant for houses with an area of \u200b\u200bless than 60 sq.m. This method is used in most modern homes. Regarding the information that comes from the temperature sensor, the operation of the boiler burner stops or resumes. Regulation is carried out by setting the desired temperature mark on the panel of the boiler equipment.
Regulation according to the air temperature in the room is acceptable for dwellings with an area of 60-350 sq.m. Manufacturers produce thermostats of various modifications - with the ability to install programs, wired, wireless, etc. The use of a thermostat allows you to reduce energy costs by up to 25%. In rooms with an area of more than 350 sq.m. professionals recommend installing weather-dependent automation. In this case, the boiler equipment will make up for the heat losses of the house. A special sensor reads the temperature on the street, and according to these indicators regulates the operation of the boiler.
Features of room thermostats
Before you buy a room thermostat for a gas boiler and an electric boiler, you should carefully understand the mechanics of such a device. The room thermostat is a device for automatically regulating the operation of boiler equipment in accordance with the air temperature set by the consumer. The thermostat is equipped with temperature sensors, which are installed in an area remote from direct exposure to heating devices. Information from temperature sensors is fed to the thermostat. The room thermostat monitors the temperature of the air in the home. The equipment does not allow the room to overheat or overcool excessively. Thanks to this, energy is significantly saved and a comfortable microclimate in the home is created.
The room thermostat is designed to maintain a set room temperature around a pre-programmed schedule. Regulators can control the operation of boiler equipment, heating radiators, water-heated floors and other heating devices.
Depending on the connected heating device, room thermostats have some design features. For example, a thermostat for boiler equipment must have a relay output of the "dry contact" type. For electric underfloor heating, thermostats with a power relay are used.
Varieties of thermostats
Regarding the connection, thermostats are divided into two classes:
- wired;
- wireless.
A wired thermostat uses a cable to transmit the signal. The cable also supplies power. Wired thermostats are distinguished by an affordable price and are often used in those facilities where the fine finish is not completed, there is a need to lay a cable from the heating device.
In those houses where the repair is completely over, it is more rational to use wireless thermostats. The devices send a control signal to the slave receiver via a radio channel. Wireless devices consist of two functional blocks. The first is represented by a controller with an LCD screen and a keypad for ease of operation. The second block is the executive device. The first block is placed in any convenient place in the dwelling at a distance of up to 50 m from the second receiver block. The second block is installed directly at the boiler and connected to it.
The wireless room thermostat for the boiler has a working range of up to 30 meters. In the event of a signal loss, the built-in microprocessor controller is able to operate based on the data stored in the last 24 hours. The temperature control accuracy of the device is up to 0.2 °C. Management here is simplified to two function buttons (increase and decrease in temperature).
According to their functional component, thermostats can be programmable and non-programmable. By programming the thermostat, you can set the temperature for each day at certain time intervals. Such a temperature change schedule will significantly save on heating. Non-programmable devices maintain a constant temperature. They are able to manually switch day / night modes or support an anti-freeze function.
Programmable thermostats are equipped with a variety of useful features. For example, the "vacation" option provides energy savings by lowering the temperature at the time of absence of people up to several days. After the function is disabled, the thermostat switches to normal operation.
The most modern devices are digital wireless thermostats. They connect to external devices via a radio signal at a frequency of 868 MHz. Due to wireless technology, devices become mobile - they can be moved to any convenient place without the need for laying electrical cables. To organize a complex configuration, zone regulation is used. In this case, the room is divided into separate temperature zones, an individual program is set for each of them.
Benefits of using a room thermostat:
- the possibility of remote control of boiler equipment;
- the ability to change the mode of heating and cooling;
- automatic maintenance of a comfortable temperature in the home;
- saving up to 40% of the coolant.
Installation Requirements
The room thermostat should be located in a place with good air circulation. It is mounted on an internal wall, at a height of about 1.5 m from the floor. The thermostat should not be placed in a drafty area, near heaters, in places exposed to direct sunlight. Locations with high levels of moisture condensation should be avoided. Since wireless devices are radio frequency, they are placed outdoors. Devices must be installed at a distance of at least 30 cm from any metal objects and electrical equipment.
Boiler room thermostats
The price of equipment for the boiler depends on the complexity of the development. The main factors affecting the cost:
● installation method (the simpler, the more expensive);
● control method (remote or wired);
● the ability to adjust the temperature range;
● complexity of automation (self-adaptation or custom mode).
The range of thermostats in the online store "SantehMarka"
Among the variety of devices, CEWAL devices have gained popularity. The brand produces mechanical and electrical room thermostats. They carry out temperature control in heating and cooling systems. Thermostats are able to control boiler equipment, circulation pumps, etc.
Salus room thermostats are no less in demand. In the manufacturer's assortment, you can find thermostats for controlling the boiler; circulation pump; hot water temperature; warm floor. The most popular and inexpensive are thermostats from the manufacturer Salus (Salus) and Valtec (Valtek).
The Salus thermostat, made in China, has earned the trust of customers in many countries around the world. It can be either wired or wireless. Salus is easy to install due to the ready-made accessory panel.
The Valtec thermostat performs not only temperature control functions, but also works as an integral part of the heating equipment safety system. The range of goods Valtek will be able to satisfy any whim of the buyer.
To reduce the cost of electricity or gas, you should take the opportunity and buy the described devices. Such an innovation will provide reasonable cost savings, and Santech Marka will help you make the right choice.
To prevent overheating and high loads on boiler equipment, special devices are installed. These are thermostats for gas boilers. In today's article, we will try to tell you in detail about this part, as well as consider its design and purpose.
What is it for?
During operation, the boiler heats the water in the system, after which it moves through the radiators. And if the pressure level of the liquid or its temperature exceeds the norm, after a while an accident will occur in the system. So, in order for the system not to be subjected to frequent overheating, it is understaffed with thermostats. Often, several parts are used in a room. Temperature controllers for gas boilers are mounted at their outlet, as well as on each battery. This is necessary in order to control the heating temperature of the liquid.
It is worth noting that gas equipment is a subject of increased danger. If used incorrectly, burners cannot burn fuel properly, which causes gas to fill the combustion chamber, increasing the risk of explosions and fires. As a result, the boiler overheats, and the water in the system is converted into steam (in this case, the pressure on the pipes increases significantly). Of course, modern boilers are able to turn off during significant overheating, since special sensors are provided in their design. But, as practice has shown, when the temperature rises too quickly and somewhere far from the heating element, they are not able to respond to these changes in time. As a result, the system overheats. Under such circumstances, only a local fuse helps, that is, a thermostat for a gas boiler. It gives a signal in a matter of seconds, so you don't have to worry about the risk of overheating the system.
Design and principle of operation
What are these elements made of? The thermostat (including for the AOGV gas boiler) consists of several strips of metal. The latter have different coefficients of linear expansion. These strips work as an electrical switch contact in the heating circuit. Due to the difference in the coefficient of the two metals, they are deformed, after which the chain is broken. The steel strips are in contact with the valve closing mechanism. When the temperature rises above the nominal value, the contact goes down. Further, at the level of the valve, access to water, steam and gas is blocked. Thus, the operation of the boiler stops, and the radiators cool down naturally, exchanging heat with the air in the room.
What happens next? After the steam / water temperature drops to normal, the thermostat will open the valves and restart the boiler. It should be noted that frequent overheating of the system may damage the design of valves and fuses. Therefore, after each such situation, it is necessary to check the integrity of important mechanisms.
As you can see, a remote thermostat for a gas boiler has the same principle of operation as a car thermostat - as soon as the temperature rises, a special valve opens in the system and the liquid is pumped in a large circle. True, in the case of a car, the sensor is not able to turn off the internal combustion engine.
Varieties
When buying this element, it is important to take into account a number of parameters and characteristics of the particular heating system that is used in your room. Below we will consider which thermostats for gas boilers exist and how each of these types is characterized.
Indoor
This type of thermostat works exclusively with free air flow. That is, there should not be any elements blocking air circulation near it. It can be a curtain, a closet or other furniture located next to a heat source (radiator). This is the most popular thermostat for a gas boiler (including Beretta). These devices can also be used for heated towel rails.
The room thermostat is a device that regulates the operation of the heating boiler depending on the current room temperature. That is, the sensor does not work taking into account the heating of water in the tubes. In this way:
- The heater (in our case it is a gas boiler) in the absence of an installed thermostat turns on and off depending on the water temperature.
- A heater with a room thermostat operates depending on the heating of the air in the room.
That is why thermostats for gas boilers are not recommended to be covered with any decorative covers, forced with furniture and other things. By the way, this type of device is equipped with a convenient digital display and can be programmed at the touch of a button.
TRV
This abbreviation hides a special type of elements - thermostatic valves. These devices do not directly control the boiler. By their structure, they only reduce the flow of water through the battery, and only if the temperature rises above normal. Most often, expansion valves are mounted in places where the level of water pressure is the lowest. of this type, as well as room ones, it is not recommended to install under covers and other design devices. The fact is that if there is a violation of the air circulation in the room, the device will not measure the exact level of heating of the system, and accordingly, it will be useless in your home.
Remote controllers
Experts recommend installing zone remote controllers together with these devices. These devices will help control the air temperature in a room or in a separate section of the room using infrared rays. As soon as the system begins to boil, the sensors will send a signal to the boiler or regulator valve, after which the heater will stop working.
Cylinder thermostat
This type of device is recommended to be installed if a 2-circuit boiler is installed in the room. At the outlet of the system, water reaches very high temperatures (more than 80 degrees), and in order to prevent pipe deformation and leakage, such liquid regulators are mounted before passing to the battery. It is worth noting that the cylinder thermostat is fully programmable. This means that the owner can independently set the temperature at which the boiler will turn off for a certain time. Most of these regulators are adjusted in the range of 60 degrees Celsius.
"Smart" thermostats for gas boilers
These devices, in their principle of operation, are very similar to direct-acting water regulators. They also monitor the state of the system and, if necessary, turn off the boiler until the liquid temperature stabilizes. In addition, "smart" thermostats are able to turn off boiler equipment, also controlling the amount of hot water pumped through the pipes. In the event of an emergency, the electronics react quickly and close the valves in the system. This type of device can be both digital and electronic. The latter consist of several components - a display, a board and contacts.
How to install correctly?
Judging by the reviews, for a gas boiler it is quite possible to install it indoors with your own hands. And it doesn’t matter if the device is mounted on metal, cast iron or aluminum batteries - the whole process is similar and requires a minimum of tools.
So, how to properly turn on the regulator in the heating system? The first step is to drain the water from the pipes. So we will discharge the central heating system. Most often, this requires opening one valve located at the water inlet to the system. Next, the pipes are purged, and the adapter is unscrewed. How to do it? In order to disable the adapter, you need to perform several manipulations.
- Put a lot of pieces of rags. It can be rags or towels. It is important that they all consist of terry or cotton - this way more water will be absorbed into them. Alternatively, you can use an ordinary sheet of paper or cardboard.
- Press the old valve body with an adjustable wrench. The second wrench is needed to loosen the nuts that hold the valve to the pipe and adapter. Then we boldly remove the mechanism from the radiator. In some cases, it is necessary to use a battery valve that is built into the radiator.
The next step is to mount the new device. Before installation, it is important to thoroughly clean the internal threads. A piece of clean cloth is best for this. After the thread is wrapped with a special locking tape (white stripe) clockwise. It is recommended to smooth it after each new turn. Next, the screw element is connected to the corner gaskets.
When installing, the blind nut should be replaced, as well as the old steel collar made of copper pipe. If the latter does not slip off, carefully and accurately cut out its parts and tear them apart with a compact screwdriver.
After the thermostat for the gas boiler is installed (you can see a photo of the finished element in working condition below), you need to tighten the nut, which is located between the adapter and the valve. The latter should be held with an adjustable wrench. It is important not to overtighten the threads, otherwise the system may depressurize.
Next is the installation of a spare protection system. To do this, the pipes are filled with water again. After the system is completely filled with fluid, check all connections for leaks. If the valve is located in a large room (for example, a living room), it is left completely open. In the case of a small room (kitchen or nursery), you need to close it halfway.
Some models of heating boilers are endowed with electronic circuits necessary to expand the functionality and more convenient control of the microclimate in the house. The equipment turns out to be a complex, but pleasing abundance of service capabilities - from automatic temperature control in the circuits to control of external auxiliary units. An undeniable advantage is the ability to connect additional control modules. For example, a thermostat for a heating boiler will maintain the set temperature and provide convenient heating control.
What are room thermostats for?
Owners of simple heating boilers do not have to think about the convenience of climate control in the house. Most often, all adjustments on such boilers come down to one simple knob for selecting the degree of heating of the coolant - a simple scale with numbers from 0 to 9 is used here. In the autumn cold, the equipment works on one or two, and in severe frosts, users set the knob to higher numbers.
Thus, the simplest thermostat is used here, focusing on the temperature of the coolant in the system. The required heating level is set manually, and then a simple thermoelement based on a bimetallic plate starts working in the boiler - it turns on the ignition, provides gas supply to the burner. This scheme is used in many simple models.
More advanced boilers regulate the temperature of the degree of heating of the premises as follows:
Models with a remote sensor will regulate the temperature of the exact place where the sensor itself is installed.
- By electronic sensor for controlling the temperature of the coolant in the heating system;
- By remote air temperature sensor;
- By air temperature outside the premises;
- According to the sensor located in the remote room thermostat.
Weather-dependent sensors are used by consumers extremely rarely - people are used to relying on their own feelings. Therefore, they choose to control the temperature of the heating medium or control the temperature of the indoor air.
A remote thermostat for a boiler is an external control module installed at an arbitrary point in a household or apartment. It includes a room temperature sensor and controls. The main function of this miniature device is to monitor the set temperature based on the readings of the thermocouple. With a decrease in temperature, the controller sends a command to turn on the heating to the boiler, and after reaching the set value, turns off the burner.
Thermostats for heating boilers also have additional functionality:
- Adjusting the temperature in the hot water circuit is not the most necessary regulator, but some models have it;
- Setting the day and night temperature conditions - the equipment will automatically lower the night temperature to the set mark;
- Heating control according to a given program - the thermostat will turn the boiler burner on and off, focusing on pre-entered data. For example, we can program equipment for a week ahead;
- Management of external equipment - these are indirect heating boilers, solar collectors and much more.
Due to the remote design, thermostats provide the convenience of controlling the operation of a heating boiler, which can be located in any remote room - this is a kitchen, bathroom or basement.
The functionality of thermostats varies widely. The simplest modifications are a single adjustment knob with a mechanical scale. More complex devices are equipped with several regulators and electronic displays, which display various data. Accordingly, the prices for such devices are higher - they are more advanced, giving users many service functions.
How thermostats for heating boilers work
The thermostat for a gas boiler is a full-fledged remote control panel. Judge for yourself - if the boiler is hanging in the kitchen, then in order to reduce the temperature in the heating, you will have to get up from the sofa and visit the kitchen room. If a thermostat were installed in the room, it would be enough to turn the knob or press the button to lower the temperature. Worst of all, if the heating equipment is mounted in a hard-to-reach place - in this case, you simply cannot do without a remote control panel.
In programmable thermostats, you can set different temperature conditions for day and night.
The basis of any thermostat for a heating boiler is a temperature sensor. It analyzes the air temperature in heated rooms, controlling the operation of the burner and other components. By setting the knob or buttons to +22 degrees, you can leave the equipment alone - it will ensure that the set temperature is reached. Whatever the outside temperature is, the room temperature will stay the same.
A programmable room thermostat is more complicated - here we can set a specific heating program. For example, in the daytime we set +23 degrees, and at night we set +20 degrees (at a lower temperature, sleep will be stronger and healthier). We can also set the temperature in the hot water circuit or adjust the degree of heating of underfloor heating.
A more complex and advanced room thermostat for a gas boiler will be able to work with several heating circuits at once, providing separate temperature control.
Pros and cons of room thermostats
The thermostat for a heating boiler is just a convenient addition that provides temperature control and management of various service functions. This device is not a mandatory unit of the heating system, in some cases you can do without it. The room temperature controller is useful in large households and in multi-room apartments, when the boiler may be too far away - in this case, the temperature can be adjusted, for example, from the living room.
Let's look at all the advantages of a thermostat for a heating boiler:
Once you set up such a device, you can enjoy a comfortable temperature in your home for a long time.
- Ensures compliance with the specified temperature regime - you can create a comfortable environment in an apartment or house without additional effort;
- Automation of the heating system - the programming function is responsible for this;
- The use of a thermostat will reduce gas consumption by the heating boiler - thereby saving on utility bills.
Unfortunately, it is not without its drawbacks:
- A wired room regulator for a gas boiler requires a cable to be laid - this is easier to do at the stage of building a house than to lay it on top of a repair;
- The cost of equipment - advanced thermostats are quite expensive. Otherwise, you will have to do without additional functions.
The disadvantages are not the worst, so you can put up with them. After all, you have to pay for convenience.
The main types of thermostats
A room thermostat for a heating boiler is a necessary and convenient thing. But there are so many of these thermostats on sale that your eyes run wide. Let's see how these devices differ from each other and what are the features of their work in heating systems. To begin with, let's discuss the division into electronic and mechanical models - by the way, the latter are much cheaper, but inferior in functionality.
Mechanical models are simple and reliable.
A mechanical thermostat for a heating boiler is a temperature controller with the simplest internal device. Inside we will find a simple thermocouple based on a bimetallic plate (sometimes other types of sensors are used) that control dry electrical contacts. The appropriate regulator is responsible for setting the temperature. Thanks to a simple device, the equipment is distinguished by its low cost. But there is no automation here.
Please note that the thermostat for the heating boiler and the room mechanical thermostat for the heating boiler are two different devices - the first is the internal unit of the heating equipment.
An electronic thermostat for a heating boiler is a more advanced device. Temperature control in it provides an accurate electronic sensor that records temperature changes with an accuracy of tenths of a degree. The simplest modifications have a minimum set of functions - this is the control of the operation of the heating circuit. More advanced models will please with powerful functionality:
- Hot water circuit control;
- Program work;
- Work with warm floors;
- Date and time display;
- Day and night heating modes;
- Night illumination and much more.
Most of the thermostats for heating boilers on sale are represented by electronic models - “mechanics” are much less common in stores.
Wireless thermostats are very easy to install, as they do not require cabling.
Temperature controllers for heating boilers are divided into wired and wireless. Wired models are more affordable. The connection of the thermostat to the boiler is carried out using a two-wire cable - it is laid under the plaster or laid in skirting boards or cable channels. The optimal cross section of each conductor is 0.75 square meters. mm.
A wireless thermostat is a more interesting thing, since it does not require wiring. The range of this device is up to 100 meters in line of sight. In real conditions, it falls 1.5-2 times due to the walls. Worst of all, the signal passes in apartments where the walls are made of reinforced concrete. But there is no need to lay a connecting cable, which is important for buildings where repairs have already been made.
Popular Models
A typical representative of the mechanical category is the Zilon ZA-1 thermostat. This is the simplest model with a relay output, designed to work with equipment that supports the connection of "mechanics". The operating range of the temperature sensor is from +10 to +30 degrees.
This model uses a gas-filled sensor that controls dry electrical contacts. The thermostat is not recommended for installation in rooms with high humidity.
Protherm Exacontrol
A room thermostat for a gas boiler called Protherm Exacontrol is designed to work with heating equipment from the brand of the same name. But it can work with any other boilers. It regulates the temperature in the range from +5 to +35 degrees, and only in the heating circuit. For convenience of work the device is equipped with the liquid crystal display. The thermostat is designed for those who do not need extra functionality.
From wireless room thermostats for heating boilers, we can highlight the SALUS Controls VS20WRF model. This is a multifunctional device that can control servos. It provides temperature control in the range from +5 to +35 degrees, can work according to one of the programs stored in the memory, and supports the connection of remote sensors. To control the current operating mode, the device is equipped with a large liquid crystal display.
How to install a thermostat
You can buy a suitable thermostat at any store that sells heating equipment. They are represented by hundreds of modifications, both simple and more advanced. After choosing and purchasing a suitable model, you can proceed with the installation. Next, we will tell you how to connect the thermostat to the boiler - there is nothing complicated about it.
Proper installation of the thermostat in the living room.
In order to install the thermostat on the boiler, you should decide on the place of its installation. The device should not be exposed to direct sunlight, it should not be located in a draft zone. It is also necessary to ensure that there are no heaters nearby - otherwise it will be difficult to achieve the required temperature. A two-wire cable is laid from the thermostat to the heating boiler.
In the case of wireless equipment, it is enough to screw it to the wall in any suitable place.
Next, you need to set up the thermostat - for this you need to remove or install a jumper located on the boiler board or in some specific place. So, the unit will be able to understand that it will work with a remote thermostat. After that, we proceed to tests, checks and programming. When using a wireless model, it is paired with the boiler according to the attached instructions.
The temperature sensor for a heating boiler, which is an internal unit of heating equipment, is installed by replacing a failed sensor.
Video
Efficient heating control is a vital part of the efficient operation of the boiler and home heating system. Proper use of the controls will reduce the energy consumption of the unit, while creating a comfortable temperature in every room of the house, avoiding overheating of the premises. And the thermostat (or programmer) controls the operation of the boiler, depending on the temperature in the room.
Up to 20% of the volume of consumed energy carriers can be saved using this kind of automation. And energy prices are quite high and the desire of every normal person to reduce their costs.
We consider the situation when the boiler is designed correctly, the necessary insulation of the premises is completed, and the heating system is functioning normally.
Main types of boilers and temperature control
There are several types of boilers: solid fuel, gas, electric and liquid fuel.
Boilers are widely used all over the world. There are domestic samples, there are boilers and imported ones. The material of manufacture is steel or cast iron. Easy to operate, economical, with the function of adjusting the temperature of the coolant. In cheaper models, this function is implemented using a special device - a thermocouple.
Structurally, a thermoelement is a metal product, the geometric dimensions of which, under the influence of temperatures, decrease or increase (depending on the degree of heating). And this, in turn, changes the position of a special lever that closes and opens the draft damper. The photo shows an example of such a regulator:
Photo: sample thermostatThe more the damper is open, the stronger the combustion process, and vice versa. Thus, the volume of air that enters the closed-type combustion chamber is fully controlled by the thermostat, and if necessary, its supply is stopped and the combustion process dies out. In more modern models, controllers are installed that, depending on the specified thermal conditions, control the air flow, turning on (or turning off) a special fan (see photo below):
Gas boilers are the most common and cheapest units to operate. Boilers are single-circuit and double-circuit. Single-circuit boilers have one heat exchanger and are intended only for heating. The switching circuit is shown in the figure below:
Scheme of switching on a single-circuit boiler Double-circuit boilers have two heat exchangers and are designed for heating and hot water production. The boiler connection diagram is shown below:
Some boilers have separate controls for heating and hot water temperature.
Electric boilers
A fairly common alternative to gas and solid fuel boilers. A lot of advantages, high efficiency, but a long payback period. The connection is simple, like with gas boilers, but without a cold water supply. Temperature control and overheating protection are provided.
Boiler mechanical timer Using a simple mechanical electric boiler timer There are three options for starting the central heating system:
- The boiler is off;
- The boiler supplies hot water;
- The boiler turns on and off at the set time.
Mechanical timers usually have a large round dial with a 24-hour scale in the center. By turning the dial, you can set the desired time and then leave it at that position. The boiler will turn on at the right time. The outer part consists of a set of tabs with a 15-minute period, which are inserted for the convenience of adjusting the operation and setting modes. An emergency reconfiguration is possible, which is performed when the boiler is connected to the network.
Mechanical timers are easy to set, but the boiler always turns on and off at the same time every day, and this may not satisfy the owners if the family is large and bath procedures are performed several times a day at different times.
Types of thermostats
According to the type of functions, they can be divided into several groups:
- with one function (temperature maintenance);
- with a large number of functions (programmable).
By design, thermostats are divided into types: wireless and with wires for communication with the boiler. Install the thermostats in a convenient place, connect the temperature sensor, connect it to the boiler control system and use it.
Room thermostats need a constant supply of air to function properly, so they should not be covered by curtains or blocked by furniture. Appliances adjacent to the electric thermostat may interfere with the correct operation of the device: lamps, televisions, heaters located nearby.
The programmable electronic room thermostat allows you to select the desired and comfortable temperature at any time, it is easy to reconfigure and change the operating mode. The timer allows you to set a different heating pattern for weekdays and weekends. Some timers allow you to set different settings for each day of the week, which can be useful for people who work part-time or in shifts. Many Terneo and KChM models are equipped with such thermostats.
A programmable room thermostat allows you to set individual heating standards for each day in accordance with your lifestyle and maintain the temperature at home all the time, regardless of the presence or departure of the owners.
Video: Connecting a room thermostat to a gas boiler
If a boiler with a radiator is responsible for the heating system, as a rule, only one programmable room thermostat is needed to control the entire house. Some patterns need to be adjusted in the spring and fall when the clocks go back and forth or there is a certain change in climate. We also recommend changing the temperature settings when changing day and night.
Such a climate controller has several options that expand its capabilities:
- "Party", which stops heating for several hours, then resumes;
- "Override" allows you to temporarily change the programmed temperatures during one of the configured periods;
- "Holiday", increases the intensity of heating or reduces it for a certain number of days.
Central thermostat
Such a thermostat is located far from your boiler and usually allows you to turn the heating on or off throughout the house. Older versions are wired to the boiler, newer systems tend to send signals to the device's command post. It is with devices of a new type that quite expensive, but effective devices are equipped: double-circuit boilers Ferroli, Beretta and domestic AOGV.
The most famous are room thermostats for a double-circuit boiler of the Gsm and Protherm trademark. They have a built-in dilatometric thermostat for the boiler, which, depending on the model, can work remotely, often this technology is used for an electric boiler or solid fuel units.
The room thermostat turns off the heating of the system as needed. It works by measuring the air temperature and turning the heating on when the air temperature drops below the thermostat setting and turning it off when the set temperature is reached.
Tips:
- It is recommended to set the thermostat at 20°C;
- At night, the set temperature should be between 19-21 ° C.
- It is desirable that in the children's room it was about 22 ° C.
- The temperature should not fall below 22°C in a room for the elderly and people with disabilities.
As a rule, the temperature of the whole house or individual rooms is based on only one climate microcontroller in the heating system. The best option is to place it in the living room or bedroom, which should probably be the most visited place in the house.
Room thermostats need a free flow of air to sense the temperature, so they should not be covered by curtains or blocked by furniture. Appliances adjacent to the electric thermostat may interfere with the correct operation of the device. These include lamps, televisions, neighbor's boilers through the wall, touch switches.
Thermostatic control valves
A thermostatic valve is a simple solution to the problem of obtaining a coolant of a given temperature by mixing colder water with warmer water. The view of the three-way valve is shown below:
The thermostatic radiator valve allows you to control the temperature in the room by changing the flow of hot water through the radiator. They regulate the flow of hot water through the radiator, but do not control the boiler. Such devices must be installed in order to adjust the temperature that is needed in each individual room.
This idea should be considered as an addition to a thermal control plant. Also, such devices need periodic readjustment and regular performance checks (every six months during the change of operating modes).
Homemade external thermostat for the boiler: instructions
Below is a diagram of a home-made thermostat for a boiler, which is assembled on Atmega-8 and 566 series microcircuits, a liquid crystal display, a photocell and several temperature sensors. The programmable Atmega-8 chip is responsible for compliance with the set parameters of the thermostat settings.
In fact, this circuit turns the boiler on or off when the outside temperature drops (rises) (sensor U2), and also performs these actions when the temperature in the room changes (sensor U1). Adjustment of the work of two timers is provided, which allow you to adjust the time of these processes. A piece of circuit with a photoresistor affects the process of turning on the boiler according to the time of day.
Sensor U1 is located directly in the room, and sensor U2 is outside. It is connected to the boiler and installed next to it. If necessary, you can add the electrical part of the circuit, which allows you to turn on and off high-power units:
Another thermostat circuit with one control parameter based on the K561LA7 chip:
The assembled thermostat based on the K651LA7 chip is simple and easy to adjust. Our thermostat is a special thermistor that significantly reduces resistance when heated. This resistor is connected to the electricity voltage divider network. This circuit also has a resistor R2, with which we can set the required temperature. Based on such a scheme, you can make a thermostat for any boiler: Baksi, Ariston, Evp, Don.
Another circuit for a thermostat based on a microcontroller:
The device is assembled on the basis of the PIC16F84A microcontroller. The role of the sensor is performed by a digital thermometer DS18B20. A small relay controls the load. Microswitches set the temperature that is displayed on the indicators. Before assembly, you will need to program the microcontroller. First, erase everything from the chip and then reprogram, and then assemble and use it to your health. The device is not capricious and works fine.
The cost of parts is 300-400 rubles. A similar regulator model costs five times more.
A few last tips:
- although different versions of thermostats are suitable for most models, it is still desirable that the thermostat for the boiler and the boiler itself be produced by the same manufacturer, this will greatly simplify the installation and the operation process itself;
- before buying such equipment, you need to calculate the area of \u200b\u200bthe room and the required temperature in order to avoid “downtime” of equipment, and changing wiring due to the connection of devices of higher power;
- before installing the equipment, you need to take care of the thermal insulation of the room, otherwise high heat losses will be inevitable, and this is an additional expense item;
- if you are unsure that you need to purchase expensive equipment, then you can conduct a consumer experiment. Buy a cheaper mechanical thermostat, adjust it and see the result.
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