Proper installation of an underfloor heating thermostat and its connection accounts for at least 50% of the guarantee for the reliable operation of the heating system. Such a device manages the power of heating elements, minimizes the risk of short circuits, and saves electricity consumption. Modern models, such as a Wi-Fi thermostat, provide maximum convenience in regulating the temperature settings.
Recommendations for Choosing a Device
Before connecting a thermostat, it is essential to choose the right one. Pay attention to the following factors:
- Power and its compatibility with the corresponding parameters of heating mats or cables;
- Type of underfloor heating and its total area;
- Moisture protection level, which is especially important for bathrooms;
- Number of control zones. If you plan to install multiple circuits in a room, consider having separate thermostats for each zone.
Functional capabilities are also important. Some models have additional options, such as a timer, energy-saving mode, programming, remote control, child protection, and more.
Installing the Thermostat
Connecting underfloor heating should be done before completing the final finishing work. Any installation errors can then be identified and corrected without compromising the aesthetics of the walls and floor.
Note: A thermostat for underfloor heating comes with a temperature sensor, which should be installed directly into the floor. The sensor's task is to monitor and maintain optimal system parameters, preventing overheating.
The sensor automatically reads temperature data and sends it to the thermostat, which turns off the heating when necessary, ensuring safe cooling and heating cycles. The correct placement of the sensor should be no less than 50–60 cm from the wall where the thermostat is installed.
Stages and Rules of Installation
The installation of an underfloor heating thermostat begins with its mounting, as follows:
- Preparing the site. It should be a flat surface at a height of 1.2–1.5 m from the floor, protected from direct sunlight, heat sources, drafts, and moisture. For embedded models, prepare a mounting hole in the wall to fit the regulator's body. It is embedded into the screed at a depth of at least 5 cm from the surface. For surface-mounted devices, use screws to secure them to the wall.
- Connecting to the electrical network using a cable with a cross-section of at least 1.5 mm². The wire should be three-core. De-energize the room before connecting. Remove the thermostat cover and locate the terminals labeled "L" (phase), "N" (neutral), and "PE" (grounding). Then connect to the power supply through a socket.
- Connecting the thermostat to the temperature sensor. Use 2 wires to connect to the corresponding terminals of the device.
Note: The device is mounted and connected after the load (underfloor heating) is installed and checked. Most thermostats come with a diagram, making installation manageable even for a home DIY enthusiast with limited experience. Refer to the manual (included with each device) for guidance when connecting your model.
Sensor Installation Options
The sensor reads heating information. It can be embedded directly into the screed by placing it in a corrugated tube with a smooth inner surface that is routed into a prepared groove. The sensor should protrude 5–10 cm.
The second option is installing it under the heating strip. Drill a small hole in the reflective coating and secure the sensor on the underside of the heating strip. Secure it with heat-resistant tape or bitumen insulation for a tight fit. This ensures accurate data reading.
Checking Functionality
After connecting, test the system's functionality. Turn on the thermostat and set the temperature. If everything works correctly, the heating elements will activate and heat up, then turn off once the set parameters are reached.
Thermostat Operating Modes
Let's discuss how to configure the thermostat. Such devices offer manual, programmable, and automatic operating modes (depending on the type of device). Let's explore each in detail.
Manual Mode
In this mode, the thermostat maintains the set temperature regardless of the room's microclimate. Mechanical models are used in this case. They are simple and convenient, with no programming required. The device periodically turns the heating element on and off to maintain the temperature.
Adjustments are made by turning the thermostat knob clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on whether you want to increase or decrease the temperature. Heating stops when the set temperature is reached and resumes when it drops by 2 degrees.
Programmable Mode
With programmable models, you can set a temperature schedule. The display shows mode icons, temperature, time, and day of the week. Control is button-operated.
Programming allows you to set several operation periods based on the time of day, such as:
- Morning wake-up;
- Time leaving for work;
- Return from work;
- Night sleep.
More periods can be set, with a desired temperature for each. For example, enhanced heating can be scheduled for waking up or returning from work, while lower temperatures during absence save energy. Manual adjustments won't be needed frequently.
Automatic Mode
How to set the temperature on "smart" thermostats? Minimal intervention is required from you. The device maintains the set temperature in the room, adjusting the underfloor heating as needed. "Smart" thermostats combine manual and automatic modes, allowing you to increase heating as desired.
Modern touch-sensitive thermostats may include additional features such as:
- Anti-freeze mode. Maintains a positive room temperature even when unoccupied;
- Button lock. Prevents accidental presses and setting changes.
These features ensure more comfortable, safe, and convenient use.
Understanding how to connect an underfloor heating thermostat and regulate the temperature with it is straightforward. This modern device helps create an optimal indoor climate while efficiently using electricity.
