Heating controls can play a major role in improving comfort, reducing energy bills, and helping heating systems run more efficiently. But with so many products available - from traditional thermostats to advanced smart controls - knowing which option is right for a home is not always straightforward. 

 

Some products offer sophisticated energy-saving features that can be difficult to distinguish from more basic alternatives, making it challenging for homeowners and installers alike to identify the best solution. 

That’s why our buyer’s guides have been developed to help simplify the process. 

Helping You Choose with Confidence 

The downloadable guides on our resource page are designed to help householders and installers identify heating control products that can deliver improved efficiency, enhanced comfort, and, in some cases, support compliance with current regulations. 

The products featured are manufactured by members of the BEAMA Heating Controls group, companies committed to producing high-quality, reliable heating control solutions. 

Each guide also includes links to manufacturer information so users can explore additional features and functionality available within individual products. 

Advanced Room Thermostats 

Advanced room thermostats are one of the simplest ways to improve heating efficiency without requiring major changes to the heating system. 

Unlike traditional thermostats that simply switch the boiler on and off, advanced thermostats communicate with the boiler in a more sophisticated way. This allows for more stable room temperatures and can reduce the amount of fuel needed to maintain comfort. 

The guides include three categories of advanced thermostat: 

• Advanced thermostat with load compensation and direct boiler communication (ErP Class V). 
• Advanced thermostat with weather compensation and direct boiler communication (ErP Class VI). 
• Advanced thermostat with on/off load compensation. 

The most suitable option will depend on the type, make, and age of the boiler, which is why installer advice remains important. 

Smart Thermostats 

Smart thermostats build on standard room temperature controls by offering additional flexibility and convenience. 

Many smart controls allow heating schedules and temperatures to be adjusted remotely through a mobile app, helping homeowners better match heating use to their lifestyle. Some products also include occupancy detection, automatically adjusting heating when rooms are empty. 

The products included in the guide meet the definition set out within the 2018 Building Regulations Compliance Guide, often referred to as a ‘Boiler Plus’ option, and include automation and optimisation functions. 

Importantly, some smart thermostats also operate as advanced room thermostats, combining convenience with improved boiler efficiency. 

Delayed Start Thermostats 

Delayed start thermostats are designed to reduce unnecessary heating operation, particularly during milder weather. 

Rather than switching heating on immediately at a programmed time, these controls monitor indoor or outdoor temperatures and delay heating startup where appropriate. 

This can help reduce energy use and lower running costs without compromising comfort. 

This functionality is often included within advanced or smart thermostat products. 

Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) 

TRVs allow individual rooms to be set at different temperatures depending on how they are used. 

They help prevent overheating and reduce wasted energy by limiting heating in rooms that are already warm — even responding to factors such as winter sunshine. 

For households looking to improve comfort and efficiency without replacing their entire heating system, TRVs can be an effective and practical upgrade. 

Smart and Connected TRVs 

Smart TRVs take room-by-room control a step further. 

These products allow homeowners to adjust temperatures in individual rooms remotely from a central control point or app, with different temperatures scheduled throughout the day. 

Some smart TRVs can even detect room occupancy and automatically adjust heating accordingly. 

This level of zoning and control can help households improve comfort while reducing unnecessary energy use. 

Finding the Right Solution 

Every home and heating system is different, which is why understanding the available options is so important. 

Whether you are looking for a simple thermostat upgrade or a fully connected smart heating solution, our buyer’s guides can help you identify products designed to improve efficiency, comfort, and control.