How to make your central heating smart
Smart heating has become increasingly popular in recent years for multiple reasons. Smart heating works by connecting your heating system, usually a boiler, to the internet and offers a simple and effective way of controlling your heating from practically anywhere.
What are the benefits of smart heating?
- Convenience: being able to manage your heating from your phone is easy and convenient. There’s no need to get out of bed or move from the sofa if you’re feeling cold. Plus, if you want to return to a toasty home, you can even switch on your heating when you’re out.
- Save energy and money: smart heating can ensure your heating system runs at its most efficient by learning your daily routines and individual room temperatures. You can also programme just the rooms you need heating, meaning you’re not wasting energy on those you don’t use. This can all result in lower energy bills, something which will appeal to many, especially with prices set to rise again.
- Can be linked to other smart devices: if you’ve got a smart home system, you can link your heating to this too. So, you’ll be able to use voice commands as well as set it up to work with your calendar.
What are the key components of a smart heating system?
The key components of a heating system include a thermostat, which sets the temperature of a room, and central heating pumps which distribute the hot water through the system.
Using a smart operating system enables you to control your heating through your phone or other device via software which programmes these settings. A smart thermostat connects your heating to the internet and allows you to set a schedule and select the ideal temperature. This is all done through an app.
As well as your heating, you can also control your hot water and set programmes for when you’re away in case of adverse weather such as frost that could potentially lead to pipe freezing.
You can also install smart radiator valves, smart heating control packs and smart electric radiators. Like with smart thermostats, all these devices connect to the internet to allow you to control the settings via an app.
How to install smart heating
It’s relatively simple to install smart heating if you’re just switching to a smart thermostat. This simply involves changing the wiring and replacing the thermostat. But, if you’re wanting multiple thermostats, valves and radiators, installing the system is likely to be more complex. In this case, you might want to consult a professional electrician or plumber to assist.
The initial cost depends on the level of smart heating you want to install. Complicated systems will obviously cost more than simply switching your thermostat. Finally, it’s important to weigh up the costs vs benefits before deciding on your new smart heating system.
