Electric heated towel rails

[pmx_super]

I am thinking of getting one of these installed, but can't figure out how they work. What controls the temperature? i.e. what switches it on and off?

 

[ban-all-sheds]

A thermostat.

 

[pmx_super]

Built in to the unit, or is a separate thermostatic control needed on the supply to the unit?

I know this all sounds kind of dumb, but I've looked at the things and couldn't see any kind of thermostat (at least which you could adjust) on the unit itself.

 

[Diyisfun]

To save cost. It could be preset, cheaper to manufacture.

 

[securespark]

The dimplex ones don't have a built-in stat. They just come on & off, and the surface temperature is limited by the wattage of the unit, AFAICT.

But you can buy a regulator from dimplex (bit like a dimmer) that you can set so the temperature does not exceed your preset level (the dial is calibrated) for example when installing for the infirm or kids.

 

[pmx_super]

The dimplex ones don't have a built-in stat. They just come on & off, and the surface temperature is limited by the wattage of the unit, AFAICT.

I haven't seen any with an on/off switch. I understand the surface temp being limited by the wattage, but what then controls the on/off part?? They surely don't just come on & off randomnly!

 

[ban-all-sheds]

If you want it on all the time, connect it to an unswitched FCU.

If you want to be able to turn it on and off, connect it to a switched FCU, or put a suitably rated switch between the FCU and it.

If you want it to go on and off at particular times of day, put a timer between the FCU and it, or use a combined timer/FCU.

Have you ever lived anywhere with an immersion heater?

 

[oilman]

There are some really fancy ones made by Acova which have a remote controller and it's programmable (and expensive).

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Try Vasco or Bisque then...

But seriously - Abacus do a reasonable one with thermostat and timer: