They are both two essential devices in a heating system and very similar to each other, so much so that they are commonly considered the same thing. In reality, there is an important difference between a thermostat and a chronothermostat that directly affects temperature management in the home. Let us discover it together.
What is the thermostat used for?
To understand what the difference between a thermostat and a chronothermostat is, it is important first of all to understand the function of the former. The thermostat has in fact two very specific purposes:
- it allows the heating system to be switched on and off;
- it allows the temperature in the home to be set once the system is on.
The operating mode of the thermostat is quite simple. Through the device, the user sets the desired temperature, using the buttons or the touch screen with which the thermostat is equipped.
- When the temperature detected is lower than the set temperature, it sends a signal to the boiler to which it is connected.
- At this point the boiler is activated and starts to deliver heat, distributed for example through the radiators installed in the different rooms.
- Once the temperature reaches the required parameter, it sends a signal to the boiler and deactivates it.
The thermostat therefore plays a very important role in the management of home heating in order to always have cosy rooms during the winter season and avoid costly energy wastage, by setting the optimal temperature level, which is between 66.2° and 68° F.
Already at these temperatures we can benefit from thermal comfort, i.e. the climatic condition in which we are neither too cold nor too hot and in which the air quality is healthy for our health.
- Temperatures that are too low favour the formation of moisture and mould on the walls.
- Excessively high temperatures make indoor air dry with negative consequences on the respiratory system.
Finally, there is a real risk, with an overheated house, of running into temperature changes with the outside environment that are certainly not good for our health.
What is a chronothermostat?
The chronothermostat represents the technologically advanced evolution of a simple thermostat because in addition to activating or deactivating the boiler, it provides the possibility of delivering heat according to different time slots. The term of Greek origin ‘kronos’ in fact indicates the passage of time.
Like the classic thermostat, it is equipped with a sensor that measures the temperature in the house.
- If it is lower than the set temperature, it sends a signal to the heat generator (the boiler rather than a heat pump) which then activates.
- If it is higher, it intervenes so that the same generator is switched off or reduces the heat supply.
The added value of the chronothermostat over the thermostat is the option of daily or weekly programming of the heating system, taking into account the habits of the inhabitants of the house.
- With a chronothermostat, it is easier to set the temperature at different times of the day.
- In the morning, for example, during the working week the house is usually empty, so it is not convenient to set values that are too high and the system can remain off.
- Before the return in the afternoon and evening, and thanks to the convenience of the chronothermostat, the heating system can be activated in good time to provide a cosy environment once you cross the threshold of the house.
- Programming is not only hourly, but also based on the days of the week.
- This makes it easier and more immediate to provide heat at particular times, such as weekends, when the house is most lived in from the morning because people do not go out for work or study.
The effectiveness of the chronothermostat is enhanced by the home automation systems offered by the market. The different types of chronothermostats include the Wi-Fi ones, thanks to which the user is able to interact directly and continuously with the device even remotely.
In this way, the user has complete monitoring of the temperature when he is not at home and can intervene at any time to change the preset settings in the event of unforeseen events, such as an early return. Communication via the app also signals any mishaps, such as the opening of a window through which cold air enters, causing a temporary suspension of the heat supply to avoid energy loss.
The combination of a smart chronothermostat and smart thermostatic valves adds an additional bill-saving opportunity, whereby different temperatures can be set in individual rooms, depending on their use during the day.
Is thermostat required?
Central heating systems, such as boilers and heat pumps, should include a programmer (time control) and at least one room thermostat. If you have radiators, thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) are also required.
The chronothermostat is synonymous with efficiency and savings. It should also be considered that buildings with temperature control systems can gain a better energy class, increasing in value.
Where should I install a chronothermostat?
Installing the chronothermostat must be done carefully and therefore requires the intervention of a specialised technician: positioning affects the operation and effectiveness of the device.
It should be positioned at least 1.5 metres above the floor to avoid disturbances caused by hot air that tends to rise or cold released from the floor.
It is recommended to be installed in the most used room of the house, such as the living room, so that it acts as a reference in detecting the temperature and the consequent delivery of heat.
It should be mounted on an internal wall that is away from radiators so that the temperature reading is not affected by air flows.
