PHAM NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2026 28 HeatingControls


Three ways controls can future-proof homes


From simple temperature controllers to intelligent energy management solutions, modern heating controls can play a vital role in future-proofi ng homes. James Clark, technical training manager at Drayton, highlights three ways installers can ensure heating systems are fi t for the future.


fl exible and intelligent controls are becoming increasingly important in ensuring heating systems remain fi t for the future. Here are three ways installers can help future- proof homes through heating controls.


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1. Specify controls with remote access and intelligent automations Homeowners value an enhanced level of control over their energy usage especially when that control is conveniently at their fi ngertips, whether they’re at home or away. Smart heating controls with remote access via a smartphone app, like our Wiser 2nd Generation, allow users to manage and adjust heating schedules at any time from anywhere which helps to avoid unnecessary energy consumption when the house is unoccupied while also improving convenience. However, future-proofi ng is


more than remote control as intelligent automation features can optimise performance further without the need of constant user input. Functions such as Wiser’s Eco Mode learns the thermal properties of the home using optimum stop and weather compensation. Using this information, it automatically turns the boiler off earlier while still maintaining


s lifestyles, occupancy patterns and energy demands continue to evolve,


the desired temperature. Away Mode is another energy-


saving feature, which enables homeowners to turn off their heating when they leave the house without having to adjust their regular schedule and avoids heating an empty home. These intelligent modes and features enable heating systems to automatically respond to changing conditions while maintaining comfort levels. Heating controls off ering


James Clark Technical training manager for Drayton


remote access and intelligent automations allow for greater homeowner control, enhanced energy effi ciency, reduced wasted energy, and lower running costs. For installers, this provides an opportunity that goes beyond simply installing a heating system and instead delivers long-term effi ciency benefi ts for the future.


Advanced smart heating controls that offer remote access and automation, zoning capabilities, and smart home integration can provide customers with long-term value


2. Design for zoning and changing occupancy patterns Heating controls are evolving in the same way that lifestyles are evolving, and this means that occupancy patterns can vary considerably day-to-day and home-to-home. Therefore, the traditional purpose of a heat control to maintain a set temperature throughout a home all day is no longer desired. Instead, installing


heating controls with zoning capabilities, enables homeowners to heat rooms precisely where and when needed. Rather than heating an entire property, multi-zone controls allow for individual


rooms or zones to be managed independently, so energy is not wasted through heating unoccupied areas of a property. Zoning also off ers fl exibility


for the future. For example, if a homeowner reconfi gures rooms or occupancy patterns change as people move in or out, the heating system can adapt without major alterations. This makes zoning an eff ective way for installers to future-proof homes while improving comfort and effi ciency.


3. Choose systems that enable wider smart home technology integration As they develop, heating controls are increasingly becoming part of wider home energy management systems, so their integration abilities are key as more and more homeowners want to be able to combine multiple technologies in one system. Sensors such as lighting


controls, window and door sensors, motion sensors, leak detection devices and humidity sensors can signifi cantly impact how a heating system works and deliver energy-saving benefi ts. For instance, sensors can detect when windows are open and automatically pause heating in that room so to not waste


Report explores the best controls for heat pump systems


A new report has been issued by Resideo that explores how diff erent European markets are approaching heat pump control. The global manufacturer of Honeywell Home heating and cooling control products has drawn on insights from the UK alongside more established markets such as the Netherlands and Germany, to produce a white paper that highlights where approaches diverge – and where common themes are beginning to emerge.


Ian Little, Resideo’s UK business


development manager and Heat Pump Association (HPA)


application development across the industry.”


Key questions The report considers the questions many installers are already grappling with: • To zone or not to zone? – It


outlines the Dutch experience where zoning is being successfully applied when designed correctly. • What do consumers want


representative, explains why the company has stepped further into the heat pump control conversation: “Installers are at the heart of why we have published our white paper –


they are the ones talking to consumers, giving advice and helping guide choices. So, we want to play our role in helping move the discussion forward and supporting the skills and practical


when it comes to room-by- room control? Resideo research suggests a growing preference among surveyed consumers for heating only occupied rooms – respondents in the Netherlands


energy. With electrifi cation and


net-zero continuing to grow in importance, multi-technology integration will play into this. Connected controls that bring together heating, automation, and a variety of sensors under a single platform will improve the effi ciency, comfort, and convenience for users. For installers, this is an ideal opportunity to off er heating controls that will successfully fulfi l future energy management expectations as they continue to change.


Smart thinking Smart heating controls have evolved signifi cantly from their traditional functions of simply controlling timers and thermostats. They are now essential in contributing to reducing energy waste, improving comfort, and managing technology as homes become more connected. By recommending advanced


smart heating controls that off er remote access and automation, zoning capabilities and smart home integration, installers can deliver long-term value to their customers. These products help future-proof properties while improving the effi ciency and comfort of the home. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/726/63


(65%), Germany (49%) and the UK (43%) said they would focus on heating individual rooms rather than the whole home during the 2025/2026 winter. • Could separating system


control from comfort control off er a more consistent approach to managing heat pump performance? This would mean the heat pump controller remains responsible for system behaviour, while comfort controls manage time schedules, room temperatures and zoning.


Free to download To download a copy of the white paper, simply use the online reader link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/726/64


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