The controls of the central heating systems make the boiler, cylinder (if one installed) and radiators run as efficiently as possible, whilst also giving you the hot water and heating that you need, when you need it. Listed below are some of the main components and which sytems requires them.

Timers/Programmers

Most modern boilers come with the timer/programmer. This controls either heating or heating and hot water. Depending on the position of the boiler this is not always the best option. We will advise what is best for you.

Cylinders

There are two main types of cylinder available. A conventional cylinder (fig.1) and an unvented cylinder (fig.2). Both work by using stored water. The major benefits of using an unvented cylinder are no tank in the loft, good flow rates to all taps and a fast recovery rate. The downside is the price!! They are a lot more expensive than a traditional cylinder. Using our expertise we will advise you which is the best one for you.

Circuit Controls

There are the two main types of central heating controls. Depending on the needs of the customer depends upon which of the controls is used. The first valve (three port) is a general use valve for standard installations. The second valve (two port) can be used in more complex installations, for example to zone off different areas of your house.

Cylinder Thermostats

Left is a picture of a cylinder thermostat, which is used to control the valves shown above.

Room Thermostats

Pictured right is a room thermostat. This is used to control the valves shown above. Depending on your needs a hard-wired room thermostat may be fitted or one using the latest technology, which communicates with your boiler using radio waves. Ask for more details when we give you a quote.

Thermostatic Radiator Valves

Having thermostats on each radiator saves money. When the room is up to temperature the radiator turns off, reducing the amount of water circulating around the system. This reduced amount of circulating water means the boiler reaches temperature quicker and therefore turns off quicker on the thermostat. Pictured left is the preferred valve of Transgas Services.