As a mere diy fiddler I can't see the point of one of these. I assume it's a thermometer that goes outside n tells the boiler how cold it is, but so what, surely the boiler just chugs away until the roomstat says 'OK kid I'm hot, you just sit there n have a rest'. Or am I wrong?
weather compensators?
- Thread starter DIYedboy
- Start date
They have varying functions, for which the manufacturers make various impressive claims in energy savings.
Some adjust the switch on time so that in warmer weather the heating doesn't come on as early as when it's colder because it doesn't need as long to warm the house up.
Some control the boiler temperature so that the water is cooler when not so much heat is needed. (Condensing boilers work more efficiently with cooler return water apparently) I believe that they can also slow the frequency of the boiler firing if there's not such a demand for heat. I'm not sure what that does for efficiency, unless it's more economical to fire the boiler for several longer perods rather that lots of short bursts.
If it's really cold (sub zero) outside they can be set to operate automatically at a lower "set back" temperature overnight.
They may have some advantages, but I imagine it would be like solar hot water systems it would be a long time before you see a return on your investment. (you could do it for the sake of the planet of course)
They're not new, I first came across the "Satchwell Climatronic" back in the early 1980's. They were normally used in industrial, business, & school type premises before the widespread use of local controls. they gave some control of the radiator temperature throughout the whole building. Handy for the unexpected sharp frost, or sudden mild spell.
Some adjust the switch on time so that in warmer weather the heating doesn't come on as early as when it's colder because it doesn't need as long to warm the house up.
Some control the boiler temperature so that the water is cooler when not so much heat is needed. (Condensing boilers work more efficiently with cooler return water apparently) I believe that they can also slow the frequency of the boiler firing if there's not such a demand for heat. I'm not sure what that does for efficiency, unless it's more economical to fire the boiler for several longer perods rather that lots of short bursts.
If it's really cold (sub zero) outside they can be set to operate automatically at a lower "set back" temperature overnight.
They may have some advantages, but I imagine it would be like solar hot water systems it would be a long time before you see a return on your investment. (you could do it for the sake of the planet of course)
They're not new, I first came across the "Satchwell Climatronic" back in the early 1980's. They were normally used in industrial, business, & school type premises before the widespread use of local controls. they gave some control of the radiator temperature throughout the whole building. Handy for the unexpected sharp frost, or sudden mild spell.
You're wrong.
With a modulating boiler, the outside temperature sensor it tells it to turn down the flow temperature to the minimum compatible with maintaining the indoor temperature. This increases the boiler efficiency. It's more comfortable than an on/off controlled system.
I agree you can go over the top, and you can always add additional controls later anyway.
Saying that I have weather compensation on my old Servowarm and although it's an antique by todays standards has worked very well.
Saying that I have weather compensation on my old Servowarm and although it's an antique by todays standards has worked very well.
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