How Do I Control My Infrared Heating?
After having worked out what size panels are needed, where they’re going to be mounted, and what style finish they’re going to have, there’s just one more thing…
What’s the best way to control Far Infrared heating?
1. A Plug-in Controller:
A great option if you’re simply mounting the panel on the wall, and plugging it into an existing socket.
A plug-in timer or thermostat offer what they say on the box. Whereas our Dual Time and Temperature controller offers both features combined.
The plug-in ‘Boost’ controller is a great addition for a games room or study, which may not have dedicated timed hours but is used more on an ‘ad hoc’ basis.
2. A Wired Programmable Timed Thermostat
Take for example our popular ‘White Onyx’ controller. If an electrician is wiring the heater/s into a new connection, then a wired thermostat is a good option.
This will enable you to control up to 3 Kilowatt’s worth of heating. From Monday to Sunday you can set the schedule to your everyday lifestyle along with ‘auto-adjust’.
A fixed option on the wall adds a contemporary touch to a home and the additional features helps save further on running costs such as a boost function and holiday mode.
3. A Wireless Programmable Controller
When wiring in a panel, the electrician can fit a ‘wireless receiver’ next to the heater, and this is controlled by a battery-powered thermostat such as the Easi-Controller.
This means that when renovating a property or simply installing a panel, it cuts down on the labour, wiring and installation involved, and provides an easy-to-use portable controller.
4. In-Built WIFI App Control
Our Platinum Wall and Ceiling heaters come with in-built WIFI app control, and a useful, hand-held remote for easy boosting and on/off control.
Our SmartLife App has a built-in memory function if your internet fails which would assist with uninterrupted heating, and is also compatible with Alexa, Google Home and IFTTT rated.
Multiple heaters can be operated via this app, with rooms labelled individually. The handheld remotes can also be paired to multiple heaters in one room.
5. In-Built RF Remote Control
Our Eco Wall range comes with in-built radio-frequency controllers which can be used for programming, on/off control, boosting etc.
The in-built thermostat controller allows you to set your preferred times and temperatures from the comfort of your seat!
This controller’s benefits include weekly programming, temperature settings, time settings, smart control and a lock function.
6. A Motion Sensor or Boost Controller
This is another wired option, where the sensor detects movement and the heater comes on. With 360° vision it’s best fitted in the centre of the room, but cleverly won’t pick up smaller heat signatures like dust or insects.
The Boost pad is like the plug-in version mentioned earlier, but a fixed wall option. The boost pad comes available with or without an inbuilt fused spur and different timed options (.25-2hr and 1-4hr)
7. Wireless Timed Fuse Spur
If the heater is being installed by an electrician, then a fused spur is normally going to be required. With this controller you get the fused spur but also can connect to it via your smartphone.
This means that on the way home from work, you can turn the heating on/off, adjust the timeslots or put it into ‘holiday’ mode as and when required.
Choosing the right controller is a key part of:
- Making sure the heating is on, as and when you’re using the room
- Making sure we’re economizing the usage of the heater for only when we need it
- And not using the infrared in the same way as a traditional wet/gas system. Instead taking advantage of infrared’s quick heat up time.
By doing this, we heat the rooms/areas in the house comfortably to the times and temperatures we need, and keep energy bills to a minimum.
Choosing the right controller will depend on:
- How is the panel being installed, is it by an electrician or just being plugged in?
- Your daily lifestyle? Do you prefer time controls or just temperature control?
