Wireless thermostats control central heating without a cable between the thermostat and the boiler. A battery-powered thermostat in the room transmits a radio signal to a receiver wired at or near the boiler, which switches the heating on and off. This category covers basic digital and dial thermostats, programmable thermostats, smart connected thermostats, replacement receivers, plug-in receivers made for particular boilers, and wireless thermostats for underfloor heating.
Types
- Room thermostats: hold one set temperature; timing comes from a separate programmer.
- Programmable thermostats: combine a timer and thermostat, so you can set different temperatures for different times and days.
- Smart thermostats: connect to the internet so you can view and change settings from a phone app, and some use your phone's location to adjust the heating when you are out.
- OpenTherm and other modulating controls: instead of switching the boiler on and off, they adjust its output to match demand. The boiler must support the same protocol.
Choosing and fitting
Check that the receiver suits your boiler or wiring centre: some kits are made for one boiler range, and replacement thermostats must pair with the receiver you have. Packs are often supplied already paired. In England, Building Regulations Part L says that when a gas combination boiler is installed in an existing home, at least one extra efficiency measure should be fitted, and a smart thermostat with automation and optimisation is one of the options. When a boiler is replaced, each heated room should also have its own thermostatic control.
Receivers run on mains electricity, so they should be installed by a competent person with the supply isolated. Work on a gas boiler's internal parts must only be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. For other controls, see heating controls or wired thermostats.
