PHAM NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2025


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Why familiar solutions aren’t always fi t for purpose


Heat pump systems work best when running continuously at low temperatures, so commonly used time-proportional and integral (TPI) controls are not necessarily the most eff ective controls solution. Gareth Ash from Danfoss explains the benefi ts of some alternative options.


S


ince the late 1970s, boilers have been the main heating system in UK homes, especially after


the widespread adoption of combi boilers. Over time, system performance and control methods have improved signifi cantly, with condensing boilers and time- proportional and integral (TPI) controls becoming common. These intelligent controllers enhanced comfort and energy effi ciency by varying boiler fi ring patterns and reducing cycling. But the landscape is


changing fast. In 2023 alone,


over 60,000 heat pumps were installed in UK homes, a fi gure expected to grow signifi cantly as we work toward our net- zero goals. Government legislation and incentive schemes are accelerating the shift away from fossil fuel-based systems, with heat pumps leading the charge as the primary mass- market technology in the electrifi cation of heat.


Gareth Ash Marketing communications manager at Danfoss


The right option Part L of the Building Regulations now requires that all new homes feature eff ective heating controls, including individual room thermostats on each heat emitter. That’s great in theory, but when it comes to heat pumps, the type of control matters more than ever. One of the major concerns


in the industry today is the misapplication of legacy boiler controls, particularly those featuring TPI technology. While TPI works well with boilers by effi ciently managing on/off cycles, it’s counterproductive for heat pumps, which perform best when run continuously at lower fl ow temperatures. This ‘always on’ approach


underpins the assumption by some that TRVs (thermostatic radiator valves) are incompatible with heat pumps - but this isn’t entirely accurate. The issue is not TRVs themselves, but rather the way systems are controlled and balanced.


Danfoss TP One So, do contractors need to abandon their tried-and-tested controllers? In many cases, yes – but not entirely.


Take the Danfoss TP One.


This intuitive, easy-to-install controller crucially allows the TPI functionality to be turned off , making it a fl exible solution for heat pump systems while still off ering the familiarity and usability that installers appreciate. Additional features, such as


temperature setback modes (e.g., Away, Asleep, Standby), are also heat pump-friendly. Rather than allowing deep temperature drops that trigger recovery spikes, a modest 2 to 3°C setback helps maintain effi ciency and avoids overloading the system.


Hybrid solutions Modern heating systems are increasingly complex – think hybrid systems that combine radiators and hydronic underfl oor heating (UFH). That’s where smart, integrated control platforms like Danfoss Ally™ and Icon2™ shine. • Danfoss Ally™ off ers full


remote control via app or voice assistant and can help cut energy consumption by up to 30% through zoned heating and intelligent scheduling. It acts as the WiFi gateway to control UFH and TRVs. • The new Icon2™


controller, designed specifi cally for UFH, simplifi es installation and commissioning. On average, it takes just nine minutes to set up using the intuitive app. It also features automatic balancing, intelligently prioritising longer pipe runs in large areas to maintain consistent comfort and conserve energy. Icon2™ is available in


both wired and wireless formats and features a clean,


minimalist design that fi ts seamlessly into modern homes - a benefi t increasingly valued by developers and homeowners alike.


The TRV debate There’s ongoing debate in the industry about whether TRVs – especially electronic TRVs (e-TRVs) – should be used with heat pumps. At Danfoss, we believe the answer is a clear yes. When properly balanced,


e-TRVs, like those in the Danfoss Ally™ system, provide precise zoned control, prevent overheating, and support the continuous, low- temperature operation that heat pumps require. They enhance comfort, reduce energy use, and even support smart home integration, enabling control via mobile apps or systems like Alexa. Far from being incompatible,


modern e-TRVs can play a key role in maximising the performance and lifespan of heat pump systems.


Specify for performance The transition to heat pumps off ers a chance to rethink not just the heat source, but the entire control strategy. Eff ective, compatible controls are essential to achieving the promised effi ciency of heat pumps – and meeting the expectations of both regulators and homeowners. At Danfoss, we’re committed


to helping you make this transition seamlessly, with fl exible, intelligent solutions that bring together innovation, ease of use and energy performance. installers. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/55


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