Matt Parton, Product Manager with ESP and Sangamo – part of Scolmore Group – looks at how understanding heating controls can help householders and businesses during the continued energy bills crisis.

The latest UK energy price cap rise will see a typical household’s annual bill increase by 2% – an extra £35 – starting in October 2025, following recent announcements by Ofgem. This latest rise has once again put electricity costs under the spotlight, with implications for households, businesses and the wider electrical trade. For contractors, installers and manufacturers, this shift is more than just a headline number – it directly influences demand for energy efficient technologies, smart systems and renewable solutions as customers look for ways to mitigate rising bills.

Understanding heating controls

Heating controls regulate the temperature and operation of heating systems. When used correctly, they ensure that energy is only consumed when needed, avoiding unnecessary heating. Effective heating control can lead to a reduction in energy wastage, which directly translates into cost savings.

Householders are continuing to look at ways to reduce their energy consumption to help combat rising bills. Understanding how their heating system is performing and how they can make small changes to improve its efficiency is one consideration. Research shows that few people really understand their heating controls and many simply just don’t use them. This is where installers, supported by manufacturers and wholesalers, can play a part in advising and educating consumers on the best products for their circumstances and how to use them.

TPI control

Modern controls are designed to allow you to get the best energy efficiency possible from the heating system. Look out for those with TPI (Time Proportional & Integral) control – a feature in room thermostats that ensures the boiler fires for the shortest possible time in order to reach and maintain a room at the comfort level selected and thus optimise heating efficiency.

Tamper protected thermostat

With a tamperproof thermostat the ‘temperature set’ dial is hidden away, and the set temperature can be maintained without interference. This is particularly advantageous for landlords or where the thermostat is installed in public areas. If a thermostat is set unnecessarily high, this will lead to uncomfortable temperatures and higher than necessary bills.

Programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat gives the user an option to schedule at what time and day a call for heat can be made, thus reducing the possibility of wasting energy when the property is empty. This is advantageous when the occupants are at work and therefore do not have to remember to switch the heating ON/OFF manually. A programmable thermostat ensures that the heating is not activated longer than required.

Sangamo’s three-channel programmable thermostat, with RF and Wi-Fi, provides the means to operate and control separate heating zones within a residential property and in doing so increase efficiency and reduce energy use and utility costs. The kit is suitable for properties with two-zoned heating systems and is designed to help installers comply with the requirements of Part L Building Regulations where two zone heating is stipulated. The kit comprises two RF programmable room thermostats to control heating over two zones and hot water programming, and one receiver complete with three independent channels – two for heating and one for hot water. The system can be programmed and controlled directly or remotely via the ClickSmart+ app.

Immersion heater control

For some systems immersion heaters are used. A metal element heats up a water cylinder and it can take between one to two hours to produce hot water. An immersion heater is manually switched by the user, which means there is the risk that they will not remember to turn it off.   Timer controlled solutions can ensure that the immersion heater is switched off after a set duration. In addition programmable timer controllers can be used to schedule exactly when the immersion heater is switched on, automatically ensuring hot water is available when required.

Smart controls

The evolution of smart technology continues to play a key role in energy efficiency. It provides homeowners with a real opportunity to make conscious decisions about how they heat their homes and what effect this can have on their energy bills. A smart thermostat is something that installers can easily add to their customers’ home heating, allowing householders to control and monitor the room temperature and thermostat activity from anywhere in the world, via an app on a smart phone or tablet.

The Sangamo Wi-Fi controlled thermostat is controlled through the subscription-free ClickSmart+ app from Scolmore. It offers energy efficient programming and with remote access via the app, it allows for constant monitoring and control at your fingertips. Key features of the thermostat that will help with the control of energy usage include the optimal start function and the open window/door detection feature.

Heating strategies

Understanding and effectively using heating controls is a simple yet powerful way to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. By implementing smart heating strategies and utilising modern controls, individuals and business owners can achieve comfortable indoor environments while contributing to energy conservation efforts. Small adjustments in heating habits can lead to significant long-term savings and a reduced carbon footprint.

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Sangamo has announced the launch of its new, high quality motorised zone valves. Designed with both the installer and end-user in mind, these motorised valves offer precise control over the flow of hot water in heating control systems, providing a reliable solution for both residential and commercial applications.

The new motorised zone valves feature a robust brass body and a steel actuator head to ensure longevity and reliable performance, even under challenging conditions. For added convenience, they are equipped with a manual lever that allows quick filling and draining of the system, making servicing straightforward and reducing maintenance demands.

They are also widely compatible with existing zone valve systems, making them an ideal replacement option and come offered in two sizes: 2 Port 22mm and 3 Port 22mm.

The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through Scolmore Group company ESP.

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The Powersaver Dual Flexi 2 from Sangamo is an electronic immersion controller with programmable operation that is suitable for single, twin and dual element immersion heaters.  It bridges the gap between the bulky, aged electro-mechanical immersion controllers and the more complicated digital versions.

A table of pre-selectable adjustable programs is offered – covering all of the low rate electricity tariffs, including Economy 7, Economy 10 and Eco 20:20 times.

Turn the Installer Switch to the programme of choice (refer to Installation and User Instructions). Adjustment is possible to the preset times enabling the programme periods to be reduced or cancelled as required. The review button allows On/Off times to be checked and there is automatic GMT/BST changeover.

There is a half-hour, one-hour and two-hour boost function with a digital display countdown clock, allowing the user to clearly see boost times. There is also a programmable boost function for further end user convenience; this program is deliberately limited to a maximum of two hours, meaning expensive electricity is not being wasted during peak times.

The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through Scolmore Group company ESP.

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Sangamo has been manufacturing its Round Pattern Time Switches for over 65 years, and in that time has sold more than 11 million units.

The Round Pattern Time Switch is trusted by installers for a wide variety of applications, not just because of its reliability but its ease of use. The simple dial and levers make setting the switch up for daily fixed timings a breeze with no complicated menu options to navigate through. All Round Pattern Time Switches are also 20A-rated, providing a more robust switch than most other products on the market.

The switches are split into four categories:

1. Basic ‘black dial’ 24-hour time clock for simple on and off switching of up to 20A
2. Standard 24-hour ‘red dial’ switch with added 100 hour battery reserve
3. Solar Range – specially designed for lighting applications
4. Digital Range – the newest addition combines the high capacity and reliability of the electro-mechanical models but provides full seven-day programming.

Sangamo regularly hears from people with Round Pattern Time Switches still going strong after 40 and 50 years. When they eventually need a new switch they reasonably assume, because of its age, that it might not be possible to get a direct like for like replacement. However, because the original design has never needed to be updated, an RPTS you buy today is completely interchangeable with one bought decades ago.

The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through Scolmore Group company ESP.

www.espuk.com

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning a Sangamo Round Pattern Time Switch, simply choose the correct answer from the following choices:

Q. How long has Sangamo been producing its Round Pattern Time Switch?

A) More than 65 years

B) More than 80 years

C) More than 100 years

Simply fill out the form below and tell us your answer for the chance to WIN!

Deadline for entries 30/11/24

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Sangamo’s new three-channel programmable thermostat with RF and Wi-Fi provides the means to operate and control separate heating zones within a residential property and in doing so increases efficiency and reduces energy use and utility costs. Easy installation and ease of programming and operation are at the heart of the new kit.

The Building Regulations which cover the energy performance of new and existing buildings have been subject to change in recent years with the approval of Part L (or Document L). Part L of the Building Regulations states that ‘for wet heating systems in new dwellings with a floor area of 150m² or greater, a minimum of two independently controlled heating circuits should be provided’.

The new Sangamo Thermostat Kit is suitable for properties with two-zoned heating systems and is designed to help installers comply with the requirements of Part L Building Regulations where two zone heating is stipulated. The kit comprises two RF programmable room thermostats to control heating over two zones and hot water programming, and one receiver complete with three independent channels – two for heating and one for hot water. The system can be programmed and controlled directly or remotely via the ClickSmart+ app.

One of the main features which supports the new programmable thermostat’s energy efficiency lies within the programming capabilities. When a call for heating or hot water is made, it requires it to be within a specific time and below a specific temperature. For example, the ON period would be between 0800 and 1130 hours if the temperature is below 19°C. Up to six on and off periods per day can be programmed.

Another key energy efficiency feature is the OWD (Open Window Detection) function. This is enabled in the parameter settings and uses sudden changes in temperature or humidity to detect if a window is open and switches off the heating until the window is closed to save energy.

Sangamo is keen to emphasise how easy it is to install the kit, as well as to programme and operate it. Thermostats can be wall mounted and are supplied with a wall-fixing mount and a free-standing base for table top positioning. The thermostats control the receiver via radio frequency, so there is no need for cable runs, and they can be powered either by replaceable batteries or USB-C power source.

The receiver features a large backlit display screen that ensures full visibility in any light conditions and the intuitive touch button interface makes for easy and complete control. The sleek white design ensures the kit will blend with any interior.

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning a three-channel programmable thermostat from Sangamo, simply choose the correct answer from the following choices:

Q. How many on/off periods can be programmed per day with the Sangamo thermostat?

A) Up to three

B) Up to six

C) None

Simply fill out the form below and tell us your answer for the chance to WIN!

Deadline for entries 30/09/24

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Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with ESP and Sangamo, looks at the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to the Sangamo timers and heating controls helpline.

With a history spanning more than 100 years, Sangamo has built up an extensive range of products to meet the needs of an evolving marketplace. From the original Round Pattern Time Switch first manufactured in the 1950s, through to the Choice Plus range of thermostats, controls and programmers, and Bluetooth-compatible timers for the DIN Rail Time Switch collection, installers have an extensive range of solutions to call upon to suit their customers’ domestic heating requirements.

The dedicated Sangamo technical helpline provides installers with the facility to access valuable advice and information across the product range. As the frequently asked questions outlined below testify, the Round Pattern Time Switches remain a popular choice with installers, with thousands of units still sold each year, both as replacements and as brand new installations.

Q1: Are there any thermostats with volt free contacts that can be used for cooling applications such as a fan or air conditioning?

A: The Choice RSTAT 1 room thermostat has volt free contacts and can be used for heating or cooling applications as it has NO and NC contacts.

Q2: What is the “zone” referring to on round pattern time switches?

A: It refers to the geographical location where an Astro or Suntracker (also known as a Solar Dial) is to be installed. As the sunrise and sunset times differ depending on geographical location, the correct zone model must be purchased for sunrise and sunset switching times to be accurate. Digital time switches can take into account these differences and can be used anywhere, but mechanical time switches can only be used in a set area. The UK is split horizontally into four different zones.

Q3: Can round pattern time switches be removed from their base and replaced with another version of a Sangamo round pattern timer switch? 

A: Yes, this will allow you to change the timer without needing to rewire it. Round pattern timers come in 3 pin or 4 pin variants – this relates to the number of terminals, so be sure to replace with a timer with the same number of pins.

Q4: What’s the difference between a regular time switch and a Suntracker/astro?

A: Regular time switches will switch at set programmed times to switch on or off. Astro/Suntracker timers will switch at sunrise and sunset times and will automatically adjust as they change through the year. Additional set on/off programs can also be programmed.

Q5: What do all the product codes mean in your round pattern time switches?

A: The round pattern time switches (RPTS) have a variety of different variations which are all able to achieve different tasks. Things such as different amounts of on/off times and how many pins the switch has can all affect the product codes. If you need assistance choosing the correct RPTS for you, you can speak to our customer service or technical teams and they will be happy to assist.

Q6: Can the Powersaver/Powersaver Plus range of products be used as regular time switches?

A: Powersaver timers can be used to switch a wide range of mains powered devices in accordance with the product’s technical specification.

Q: What product would you recommend if I have an economy tariff on my boiler? 

A: The Powersaver Dual Flexi 2 is designed for Economy 7, Economy 10 and Economy 20/20 tariffs, but can be used on flat rate tariffs as well.

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The Pinnacles is one of Sheffield’s leading student properties with a mix of one, two, three, four, and five bedroom apartments catering for both UK and international students.

The large, purpose-built student accommodation overlooking Victoria Quays is just a 10 minute walk from City Campus and the train station.

As the required ongoing programme of maintenance was embarked upon, a key element was to overcome the problems associated with the existing heating control provision. Issues with students operating the system had not only led to an increase in complaints and maintenance requests but had resulted in an increase in energy consumption due to the heating controls being incorrectly operated.

The Sangamo Choice Plus Tamperproof Electronic Room Thermostat from ESP was specified as the solution to overcome the issues identified. To date more than 200 of the thermostats in the white finish have been installed in the communal hallways of each of the flats, and they will continue to be installed on a rolling basis as the maintenance programme is carried out.

Commenting on the project, Steven Moore, Operations Director at South Street Asset Management said: “The project has been superb from our point of view. The Sangamo team attended site and made recommendations to move us away from the historic thermostats. We were looking for a product that would enable us, as landlords, to optimise the heating within the student apartments and remove the confusion our students found in operating the old six zone system. The Sangamo tamperproof thermostats have enabled us to do this and have dramatically reduced the complaints and maintenance requests being experienced on site.”

The Choice Plus electronic room controls are concealed by a discreet tamperproof cover.  The set point is adjusted and the cover is fitted to provide protection against accidental or purposeful incorrect operation. Features and benefits include:

• Large Temperature Adjustment Dial
• Tamper Resistance Cover with Security Torq Screw
• Electronic Sensor for Accurate and Responsive Performance
• TPI (Time Proportional & Integral) Control for Heating Efficiency
• 5°C to 30°C Set Temperature Range
• 5°C and 1°C Temperature Swing Adjustment
• 10A Switch Rating 240vAC

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ESP has released its latest catalogue, an easy to access reference guide bringing together all products from its extensive portfolio into one.

The updated edition features its latest addition, the Aperta IP Door Access range.

The new catalogue provides wholesalers, contractors, and specifiers with a valuable resource to help them locate the right products and solutions for a variety of projects. It divides into eight main product categories consisting of Smart Security, CCTV, Access Control, EVAC, Fire Protection, Emergency Lighting, Essentials and Sangamo timers, heating controls.

Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Managing for Scolmore Group, comments: “ESP has continued to invest in its teams, infrastructure, and product development programme and in the last four months we have been able to bring to market a whole new door access range.”

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ESP has enhanced its Sangamo heating controls range with the new energy saving smart thermostat which allows installers to easily add a smart control function to their customers’ home heating.

The Wi-Fi controlled thermostat allows you to control and monitor the room temperature and thermostat activity anywhere via a smart phone or tablet through the subscription-free Scolmore ClickSmart+ app, which offers users control of connected home and security products. Additionally, it can be voice controlled through Alexa and Google Assistant.

Delivering full installation flexibility, either the thermostat’s wiring or receiver can control a boiler, and is suitable for electric, gas, or oil systems.

Key features include the optimal start function, where the boiler is gradually fired as the required set time approaches. To ensure optimum temperature conditions, this time is automatically adjusted depending on the current temperature. For example, on a cold day starting to heat earlier to ensure warmth at the scheduled time.

Another feature is the open window/door detection. Along with sudden temperature changes, the thermostat detects this, switching itself off to save energy. It will then resume if the temperature recovers or 30 minutes elapses.

Available in a white finish, the thermostat has a slimline, contemporary design, with touch button for manual control and clear LED display. It comes complete with table stand or mount wall option and features a keylock facility to avoid buttons accidently pressed.

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Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with Sangamo, answers some of the key questions relating to smart heating controls and energy saving measures.

Q. With all homeowners looking to minimise energy costs, how can modern controls help get the best energy efficiency possible from a domestic heating system?

Modern controls include features which reduce the amount of time a boiler is firing, which in turn will lead to reduced energy usage and therefore result in reduced costs. Having the heating on when the property is vacant or having no control over the set point temperature will result in an inefficient system. Features such as seven-day scheduling and thermostat control ensure that the boiler is firing when the property is most likely to be occupied and does not exceed the desired temperature.

In essence modern heating controls offer automation to a heating system and work to avoid energy wastage by setting a logical pattern of heating. This is in comparison to relying on an end user to manually control the system, which can be very time consuming and costly if the end user forgets to switch the heating off.

There are advanced features available such as optimum start/stop which analyses the warm up and cool down periods of the heating system. Due to this analysis the firing time of the boiler is reduced, thus saving energy. In addition, the feature ensures that the set temperature is reached by the system at the programmed time thus preventing the need for the user to change the set point temperature which accelerates the firing of the boiler and leads to energy wastage.

Q. With technology continually evolving, what benefits do the latest smart controls provide?

Smart controls allow an end user to have full access to the operation of the control remotely via an app platform, which allows for settings and different modes to be adjusted remotely. This is particularly useful if there is a sudden change in the weather or in the user’s routine when settings can be modified accordingly.

An app platform also provides the user with historic heating patterns and a current live view of the heating system status. This provides an understanding of which times of the day the boiler is firing and thus enables a user to analyse and fine tune the programming of the heating control leading to a more efficient system.

One of the most noted advances in recent years is the popularity of Voice Control through virtual assistance. For convenience, or for users with restricted mobility, voice activated features enable a user to verbally change the set temperature or programming to assist with heating comfort. In addition, smart features such as open window/ door detection will cancel a boiler firing until the temperature stabilises or other conditions are met. Smart controls that are linked together via an app can also provide a whole host of automation processes with other smart devices in the property.

Q. How important are the aesthetics of smart heating controls?

Due to the popularity of smart phones and apps, smart heating controls have become a popular consumer product in recent years. Market data shows that there is a high demand for smart heating controls and this is a sector in which consumers are willing to invest. Function, operation and design are essential elements to be considered when it comes to the development and creation of desirable product solutions.

As well as general demand from consumers, there is an increasing requirement for design conscious heating controls for more commercial projects such as new builds and refurbishment projects. It is commonplace today to have a choice of wiring accessories and furniture and there is no reason why heating controls shouldn’t follow suit. Where once heating controls were considered a very functional product area, we are now seeing a trend towards more aesthetically designed solutions.

Smart technology in general has seen a massive increase in demand and the expectation of modern, high-end, vanguard technology is for the product to be designed and packaged in a complementary manner.

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