Temperature sensor for underfloor heating: types of devices and their installation

It is very important to provide and maintain warmth in the living area. It depends on the temperature how comfortable the stay in the house will be. In addition to standard heating devices in modern houses and apartments, warm floors are installed as an additional source of heat. For ease of use, they are equipped with a special thermostat. The temperature sensor for underfloor heating can be installed independently or commissioned by professionals.

Device and types of sensors

This device, which performs an important function, is a bimetallic plate or rod. The need to use two different metals for production is determined by the characteristics of these metals:

1. The ability to generate electrical signals of varying strength. The magnitude of these signals depends on the environment in which the metal is located.
2. The ability to transform the shape. The conductor easily changes shape under the influence of different temperature conditions.

Taken together, these characteristics give the alloy from which the plate is made unique properties. Thanks to them, the alloy is best suited for the production of underfloor heating thermostats.

The underfloor heating system can be equipped with different sensors that differ in location. During installation, they can be installed:

1. In a concrete floor screed. It is important to protect the sensor while providing access to it. Protection is best done in the form of a special cover or a piece of corrugated pipe.
2. In the heating circuit. In this case, the thermostat is located in the electrical cable or water system. With this method of installation, the device can be both stationary and remote. The latter should be placed between the heating wires.

When determining the installation location of the sensor, it is important to connect it in such a way that it is away from other heating devices and heat-emitting mechanisms. It is also required to exclude exposure to drafts and direct sunlight.

Atmospheric devices

In addition to the installation method, there is another important point - this is the ability to automatically adjust the temperature regime. Devices that combine several instruments into a single system are called atmospheric sensors. They are easy to use. With their help, the air temperature in different rooms can be controlled from one device and remain at a given level.

Atmospheric sensors can not be used in every underfloor heating system. To make their use really convenient and effective, such a floor should not be located under materials that impede good heat transfer (linoleum, parquet).

Also, in the case of atmospheric devices, a sharp jump in room temperature should not be allowed. If a very cold air stream enters the thermoregulation system, it will work with a delay, which will lead to its overload and possible breakdown.

Features of work

All thermostats for underfloor heating function by closing and opening the electrical circuit. However, the way to turn this circuit on and off can be different:

1. With the use of an electromechanical switch. These switches are triggered due to the fact that the plate installed inside can bend and unbend depending on the temperature. When the electrical circuit is opened, it bends until it touches the opposite contact; when closed, it is leveled. The advantages of electromechanics are versatility, inexpensive cost, simplicity and reliability of operation. In case of failure, problems with self-replacement of the switch will not arise.
2. Using an electronic element. Here, the operation of the sensor depends on the electrical signal entering the electronic unit and regulating the supply of energy. Electronic devices are more modern, they allow you to set accurate temperature indicators, which will be automatically maintained. They are equipped with sensors for control and a digital screen that displays all the indicators of the system.

Programmable sensors are considered a separate category. Their structure and principle of operation are much more complicated than that of electrical electromechanical ones. The programs installed in them enable the user to make the most accurate setting of temperature and other indicators remotely (from a computer, smartphone, tablet).

It is impossible to say unequivocally which type of sensors is the best. The convenience and efficiency of their work depends on the size of the housing, its purpose, the needs of residents and many other factors.

Installation and connection

Usually qualified specialists are called to install it. If a person has sufficient experience, he can carry out the installation on his own. Installation of a floor heating sensor involves a number of actions:

1. Make a hole in the wall large enough to accommodate the back box inside.
2. In the downward direction from the hole, make a channel in which the signal wires and cables will be laid.
3. Make a similar channel upward from the original hole to the switchboard. It is necessary for routing the input wires.
4. Place all wires and cables in the prepared ducts. Before laying them, it is imperative to protect them by passing them through a plastic hose. Its diameter must be such that, in the event of a malfunction, the cable can be easily reached.

The last step will be to install the sensor, taking into account the same distance from all devices that emit heat. The distance from the device to the wall should be at least 50 cm, to the floor - 1.7 m. Next, you need to make the connection. For this you need:

1. Disconnect the home network.
2. Install a circuit breaker and protective disconnecting device in the junction box. They will help to avoid accidents in the event of a short circuit and damage to the insulation.
3. Pull a three-core wire from the box to the location of the sensor.
4. Connect the previously laid wires to the junction and junction box.

All cables of the thermostat are specially marked. Connections must be made in strict accordance with the symbols affixed, while observing safety measures when working with electricity.