Thermostat for a heating boiler (thermostat): types, functions, prices

Considering the rise in energy prices, the issue of energy conservation is extremely acute. That is why a large number of models of fuel-saving heating devices have been developed. However, the equipment itself is not enough. The most efficient way to spend energy will be a thermostat for a heating boiler (thermostat), which allows you to control and maintain the set air temperature in a heated room.

Purpose of thermostats for heating boilers

In order to be able to control the consumption of energy resources of heating equipment, it is equipped with special devices - thermostats. These devices allow efficient use of fuel by shutting down the equipment when the set temperature level is reached. They use thermostats for electric boilers, gas and solid fuel boilers, as well as convectors, heaters and other heating systems.

To achieve economical operation of the heating boiler, the thermostat turns on the equipment when the temperature drops below the set value and turns it off when the set value is reached. This method allows you to avoid unnecessary consumption of gas or electricity, when, for example, some of the rooms are located on the sunny side and require less heat to heat them than for other rooms.

Useful advice! Even a slight decrease in temperature within 1 degree helps to reduce energy consumption by 4-6%.

In addition, with the help of thermostats, you can set the operating mode of the heating system, in which the temperature in the absence of people in the house or at night will be 4-5 ° C lower. Thanks to this, savings in electricity or gas consumption of about 30% can be achieved.Thus, if your heating equipment does not have such a built-in device, it would be advisable to buy a thermostat for a heating boiler. The temperature controller will provide a solution to the problem of excessive consumption of energy resources.

Types of thermostats for heating boilers

Equipping heating equipment with thermostats allows maintaining a given temperature climate in the room with an accuracy of 1 to 0.5 degrees. They control the operation of the heating system using various actuators. A distinction is made between electromechanical and electronic thermostats. The design of a mechanical thermostat for a heating boiler has an on / off button and a rotary button for temperature control.

Electronic or programmable thermostats are more advanced in design, but simple and straightforward to use. With their help, you can adjust the daily temperature cycle: in this case, the boiler will automatically switch to the preset mode. Such devices can regulate both the entire heating system and individual heating units.

There is a classification of devices for wired and remote control. For the former, it is important to connect the conductors, as well as external protection against mechanical damage. This determines the quality of the signal supplied from the boiler to the controller, notifying of the flow of coolant into the circuit. During installation, the question may arise of how to mask the signal line so that it is invisible.

In the wireless boiler thermostat, the control is carried out by transmitting a radio signal. Such a device has two blocks, one of which is mounted in close proximity to the heating boiler, connecting to the equipment terminals. The second node is located indoors. There is a dedicated radio communication channel between the two blocks. The control unit is equipped with a display and a control keyboard.

Depending on the degree of automation, thermostats can be digital or analog. The operation of digital devices is based on the signal of microcircuits, due to which the device can record and apply several preset modes. Analog thermostats are controlled manually by means of a mechanical regulator connected to a rheostat.

Thermostat for a heating boiler (thermostat): which is better to choose

Before buying a thermostat for a boiler, you need to decide on the type of device. To do this, you need to figure out what is the fundamental difference between the models of room mechanical thermostats and electronic ones. It is believed that the latter are difficult to configure and unreliable, but this is not the case.

The principle of operation of a mechanical thermostat for a heating boiler

In most cases, mechanical thermostats for a heating boiler are used in gas installations. This is due to the fact that manufacturers of gas boilers initially produce devices that are compatible with mechanical models of thermostats. The mechanical thermostat has a gas membrane inside which there is a special gas.

When the temperature deviates from the norm, the volume of gas inside the membrane changes and the mechanism for closing or opening the power supply system of the heating boiler is triggered accordingly. This is a fairly simple way to control the operation of the boiler, when its operation depends on the temperature indicator, not of the coolant, but of the air in the heated room.

Using a mechanical model of the thermostat, you can set an acceptable temperature regime by turning the round button with divisions, which is connected to the membrane.Thus, the membrane walls approach or move away to the control device: this way we set the temperature at which the connection or contact breakage will occur.

Useful advice! The simple design of mechanical thermostats for heating boilers allows you to make the device yourself.

Among mechanical devices, Siemens room thermostats have proven themselves well. Models RAA21, RAA31 have a temperature setting range of 8-30 ° C. Devices with a laconic design are mounted like ordinary switches and do not violate the integrity of the interior line. Easy to install and operate. The approximate price of a room thermostat for a gas boiler is 1500 rubles.

The advantages of mechanical thermostats include low cost, the possibility of repair and resistance to voltage surges. The disadvantages include the low sensitivity of the device to temperature changes. Uncertainty can be up to 3 ° C.

Advantages of electronic wireless thermostats for gas boilers

The use of programmable wireless thermostats for gas boilers makes it possible not only to control the operation of heating devices, but also to do it remotely. Electronic regulation allows you to set various modes of boiler operation, depending not only on temperature, but also on a certain time of day.

By purchasing a wireless thermostat for a gas boiler with programmable functions, you can count on significant fuel savings. The purchase of a relatively expensive device pays off within two heating seasons.

Modern models of thermostats are equipped with a GSM standard, which allows information to be transmitted to a mobile phone via SMS messages. Considering the fact that boilers from leading manufacturers support Wi-Fi technology, and their electronic control unit is connected to a thermostat, it is possible to configure the operation of heating equipment via the Internet. The know-how in this area is the development of special applications for a smartphone.

Convenient operation system, no need for wires, control of equipment in automatic mode are important advantages in using a wireless room thermostat for a gas boiler. Devices can be purchased with additional options, such as joint control of the gas burner unit, equipment control depending on the outside air temperature, system diagnostics and other functions.

Among the disadvantages of programmable room thermostats, one can perhaps single out the possible incompatibility of the latter with boilers, depending on their manufacturer. Such a snag appeared due to the large number of manufacturers of electronic equipment and gas heating equipment.

Useful advice! Before you buy a thermostat for a gas boiler, you need to inquire about the compatibility of the device with the model of gas equipment from the specialist of the selling company.

An excellent example for autonomous heating is the Baxi gas boiler room thermostat models. The devices allow you to set the temperature depending on the time of day and season, adjust the temperature in different rooms. In addition, they provide an economical mode of operation of gas equipment. The approximate price of a thermostat for a heating boiler Baxi model AURATON 2030 RTH - 6900 rubles.

Functions of room thermostats for gas boilers

Before you buy a room thermostat for a gas boiler of one type or another, you should familiarize yourself with its functionality. It should be noted that making a choice between analog and digital models, the latter have a lot of advantages and, accordingly, their price is higher.

However, the use of a programmable room thermostat for a heating boiler can significantly reduce the frequency of switching on / off equipment, which has a positive effect on its operation in general.

An extremely important feature of a room thermostat for a boiler is the programming function, which makes it possible to adjust a comfortable microclimate depending on the time of day, weather conditions and other factors. The available timer allows you to set the desired parameters, taking into account the days of the week (workdays, weekends), the calendar season and other settings. This is very convenient for those who have shift work or part-time work.

The main advantages of a programmable room thermostat for a gas boiler:

• remote control of the heater;
• the "day / night" setting makes it possible to set an individual heating level taking into account a certain time of day;
• simplicity of control allows you to quickly reconfigure the temperature regime in the room;

• the programming option allows you to customize the operation of the equipment taking into account weather changes;
• due to minimal on / off switching, wear is minimized and the operating life of heating equipment is extended;
• significant savings in energy consumption;
• high accuracy and reliability in operation.

Useful advice! By purchasing a room thermostat for a programmable boiler, you get the opportunity to control heating equipment at any time of the day, regardless of your presence in the house.

Wiring diagram of the thermostat to the heating boiler

After the model is selected, the question arises of how to connect the thermostat to an electric boiler or a gas heating unit. The connection of the device is carried out according to the recommendations specified by the manufacturer in the technical data sheet for the equipment. It is only necessary to find the necessary section in the documentation, where the method of connecting additional devices to the boiler will be described and all the required diagrams are given.

On some models of thermostats, the diagram is shown on the back of the decorative cover. All modern boiler models have connection points for a thermostat that will control the operation of heating equipment. The fixation of the device is carried out by means of a terminal on the boiler at the appropriate point or using a thermostat cable (included in the kit).

According to professionals, wireless room thermostats should be installed in living rooms away from existing household electrical equipment (TV, refrigerator, lamps, etc.), since proximity to the heat radiated from them can lead to incorrect operation of the device. Some recommendations for installing a wireless thermostat for a gas boiler:

• for correct measurement of the room temperature, it is necessary to provide free air access to the thermostat;
• it is not recommended to cover devices with pieces of furniture or heavy curtains;
• the device should be located in the coolest rooms or in living quarters where residents spend the most time;

• direct sunlight must be avoided;
• do not mount the device next to heating radiators or heaters;
• Do not allow devices to be in the area of ​​drafts.

Useful advice! The room thermostat sensors for heating are triggered when the room temperature changes by 0.25 degrees.

Heating control with a thermostat for a gas boiler

The operation of the heating equipment can be controlled using the setting in manual mode or by means of a thermostat for a gas heating boiler. I would like to note that using manual settings, you can set the temperature of the coolant in the system. Such functioning of the equipment does not react in any way to changes in the air temperature in the room, and if this occurs, the boiler will have to be reconfigured manually again.

The operation of the boiler in the case of manual control is associated with frequent switching on and off of the equipment, as well as with the operation of the circulating pump, regardless of which mode the unit is in: operating or waiting. This leads to rapid wear of the heating equipment and does not contribute to efficient fuel consumption.

If we are talking about control using a thermostat for a gas boiler, then such a device sets the optimal mode for the unit, taking into account the air temperature in the heated room. If, for example, there was a sharp warming and the room received additional heat from the sun's rays, the thermostat will instantly react and give a signal to the control device to turn off the boiler.

Considering that with the help of a thermostat (temperature controller) for a gas boiler it is possible to set the required temperature value in the room, heating will be carried out only if it drops. Thus, if the appliance is set to 20 ° C, and during the day the room is also warmed up due to the sun's heat or the operation of cooking appliances, the boiler will remain in the waiting stage for a long time.

In this case, fuel consumption will be significantly lower. Before you buy a thermostat for a gas heating boiler, you should ask how to properly configure the device.

Setting the thermostat (temperature controller) for the heating boiler

After you buy a thermostat for a heating boiler and connect it to the heating equipment, it will need to be configured. Each product comes with an instruction manual that explains how to set up. Having carefully studied it, you can independently set the necessary mode that meets the individual level of microclimate comfort.

On the external panel of the device there are buttons and switches through which the setting is carried out. The switches allow you to control the heating and air conditioning of the air space, delayed switching on (prevents the boiler from starting when the temperature drops for a short time, for example, in a draft) and temperature deviation (if you set the fluctuation value to 1 ° C, then switching on or off will be available when the temperature rises or falls 0.5 degrees).

Using the buttons, two modes are set: optimal and economical. Thus, during the day, the temperature will be provided with an optimal value, at night the temperature will drop to a level sufficient for a pleasant sleep. This mode will significantly save on energy resources. Different models of thermostats have several preset modes, one of which can be selected for use.

Useful advice! In rooms where children and elderly people are most often, it is recommended not to lower the temperature below 22 ° C.

Thermostats for electric heating boilers: how to choose a device

In places where gas supply is not available, electric boilers are used for space heating. Among the advantages of such equipment, there is no need for a chimney, ease of installation, environmental friendliness, quiet operation, high productivity and equipping with a control unit for automatic operation.

The disadvantages of electric heating include one, but rather significant drawback - significant electricity consumption. This leads to the high cost of electrical heating systems. Installing a thermostat for an electric heating boiler will reduce energy costs by 20 to 30% and set up an individual heating mode for each room.

As with other types of heating equipment, it is possible to use an electronic or mechanical room thermostat for electric boilers. The type of device is selected depending on what options are needed in your particular case. Mechanical models are simple and inexpensive, but may not work accurately. Electronic programmers are accurate, multifunctional and allow the equipment to operate in an economical mode without the intervention of the owner.

Before you buy a thermostat for an electric boiler, you need to decide on the temperature regime used and take into account the area of ​​the heated room. It is recommended that the purchased thermostat and electric boiler are from the same manufacturer. Models made by Baxi, Ariston, Salus Controls ltd, BOSH and others are popular.

Useful advice! A voltage stabilizer will help to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the electric boiler and the electronic thermostat in case of possible voltage drops in the network.

Where to buy thermostats for heating boilers

You can buy thermostats for gas boilers, electric and solid fuel heating equipment at specialized points for the sale of heating equipment, as well as on websites and in online stores selling elements of heating systems. The catalogs contain a huge selection of modern thermostats of various types from leading manufacturers. All devices are accompanied by a manufacturer's warranty.

The product range includes wired and wireless models, mechanical and electronic thermostats for solid fuel boilers, gas, electric and diesel installations, as well as convectors, infrared heaters and underfloor heating systems. All products from the catalog have quality certificates.

You can place an order and buy a thermostat for heating using a convenient search system on the Internet resource. Here you can not only familiarize yourself with the functions and appearance of the devices, but also consult with experts about the compatibility of devices with a specific type of heating equipment. Experienced managers are ready to share any necessary information regarding thermostats and their functionality.

The advantage of online shopping is also that it is possible to get acquainted with the cost of devices in different companies and make a comparative review of prices. Choosing a thermostat, you can get competent advice on its installation, connection and configuration.Some companies offer services for the installation of the device and its adjustment. All questions you are interested in can be clarified by the phone numbers posted in the contact section.

Prices for thermostats of different models

The cost of thermostats for heating boilers depends on the type of device, the number of supported functions and the manufacturer's company. The most advanced models of programmable thermostats with a large selection of settings will cost much more than models of simple mechanical devices, however, the level of accuracy in them is much higher.

When choosing this or that type of device, it is worth considering the level of energy saving that it can provide to the heating device and the degree of convenience in controlling the equipment to achieve a comfortable indoor climate. The approximate price of a mechanical thermostat for a Baxi heating boiler with a temperature setting range of 5 to 30 ° C and frost protection is 1180 rubles.

You can buy a room thermostat for a mechanical gas boiler, model SAS816WHB-0 with a 5-minute delay option, for 1,490 rubles. A feature of this device is the ability to control not only the operation of gas heating equipment, but also the operation of the air conditioner. Room mechanical thermostat Cewal RQ10 will cost you 790 rubles.

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The estimated cost of an electronic wireless thermostat for the Salus Controls 091 FLRF boiler is 5200 rubles. The functions of the device include two heating modes (economical and comfortable), setting the programs for a week, three levels of temperature adjustment, 9 programs for controlling the heating system. You can buy a thermostat for a solid fuel boiler AURATON S14, which is a multifunctional device, at a price of 6700 rubles.

By purchasing a thermostat for a heating boiler, you can not only set a comfortable temperature regime for each room in the cold season, but also extend the life of the heating equipment.