Gas boiler control unit (controller): what is this device and how does it work

Quite expensive and not all models of heating boilers are equipped with a GSM module. However, you can purchase it and connect it yourself, both to expensive and to the most budget models. The main thing is that the boiler must be able to connect external control, which, however, is the norm for almost all modern boiler units.

The cost of the device is on average 4-7 thousand rubles, which is quite a lot and comparable to good programmable thermostats, which are a more modern solution. However, GSM boiler control involves transmitting commands from anywhere in the country where there is cellular communication, while the thermostat’s coverage area is limited to the house itself or the range of home Wi-Fi. Therefore, the additional installation of a GSM module today is still more than justified.

Why is it worth equipping your heating boiler with a remote control system?

The need to equip a home with a system that can remotely control a heating boiler becomes obvious not only if permanent presence is not possible, but in terms of direct economic benefits and general convenience from such an event:

1. Opportunity to save up to 45-50% of money spent on heating your home every month;
2. Increasing the service life of heating equipment due to fewer switches on and off of electronics;
3. For any prolonged absence, you can reduce the room temperature and increase it in advance of your arrival;
4. During thaws, the GSM control system for the gas boiler will turn it off automatically;
5. You can set heating modes for night and day;
6. Ability to maintain different temperature levels in different zones (rooms);
7. All information about non-standard situations will be immediately transmitted by the gas boiler control unit for prompt decision-making;
8. The heating system can be turned on automatically before the onset of cold weather.

How to solve the issue from the technical side

Regardless of which heat supply system is responsible for heating the room (except, of course, manually loaded wood stoves and fireplaces), it can be equipped with electronics for remote control of the heating boiler.

Setting the heating mode when controlling the boiler remotely

This is due to the fact that most modern boiler systems have electronic matching boards in their structure, through which remote units can be connected. If the equipment for heating old models does not provide for such modernization (or it is homemade), we will still resolve the issue.

The consumer has three main options to choose from on how to implement remote control of the boiler in their home:

• Using special GSM modules for controlling heating devices;
• By connecting the so-called “smart thermostat” via WI-FI;
• Equipping radiators with multifunctional thermostats.

What boilers does it work with?

Before purchasing a module, you need to find out whether the heating boiler supports the connection of such a device. Not all models have such support.

Autonomous systems with forced circulation of coolant (that is, equipped with a pump) are suitable for connecting the device. In this case, it is necessary to rework the safety system in order to prevent breakthroughs at the points where the module is connected.

Expert opinion

Grebnev Vadim Savelievich

Heating system installer

If the module has an air temperature sensor, then it can be used with other types of boilers. However, due to measuring t outside the system, it will work a little less accurately.

Features of operation in various types of boilers

The device has specific operation in different types of heating systems:

• When used in electric boilers, voltage monitoring is possible. The device can also signal a short circuit.
• When used with several boilers at the same time, the device can summarize information from them. This is relevant when used in production or in utility rooms.
• In pellet boilers using wood pellets, the module can regulate the fuel supply to the system.

Benefits of remote control

Not all home appliance users are supporters of new technologies. Many are quite satisfied with the usual mechanical control - simple, accessible, without unnecessary bells and whistles.

But before making final conclusions, we suggest considering the advantages of “smart” equipment, which not only makes life easier and more comfortable, but also allows you to significantly reduce costs.

By controlling a gas boiler from a distance, you can save from 20 to 50% of your total home heating costs by simply changing the operating mode or choosing the appropriate program

The main advantage of remote control of a gas boiler is hidden in the method itself: you do not need to be constantly present in the house, “communication” with the equipment occurs at any distance.

Moreover, it is two-way - you send commands to the unit, which it executes and, in turn, notifies you about the current parameters and instantly signals about failures and irregularities in operation.

The programming capabilities of heating equipment are limited, but still quite wide. Today, having a gas boiler with remote control, you can schedule the heating mode while at work, visiting or even on a long trip

Users who have successfully tested the remote control system highlight the following advantages:

• Increasing the service life of the boiler due to the optimal choice of mode, reducing the number of switching off/on, and, in general, more careful use.
• A long-term absence no longer threatens to return to a cold cottage - on the way home you can set the desired temperature.
• If external weather sensors are installed, you won’t even have to interfere with the operation of the boiler during a thaw or frost - the temperature will be adjusted automatically.
• From a distance, you can select a more comfortable “night” mode for sleeping.
• If an emergency occurs or any part fails, you will know about it right away.

Of course, a lot depends on the nuances of installation and the complexity of the heating system.

The advantage is that from a smartphone you can control not only the simplest, but also an extensive network - with radiator or convector heating, or a “warm floor” system.

On the open market you can find equipment for climate zoning, which will allow you to adjust a comfortable temperature in the rooms: in the bedroom or kitchen - lower, in the living room or children's room - higher

Some functions of the system start automatically, that is, you don’t even need to select a mode on your phone - the equipment will switch itself based on sensor signals.

Setting procedure

To configure the system and select a comfortable temperature, follow these steps:

1. Set the maximum temperature using the remote controller.
2. Start the boiler and bring it to the optimal operating mode, in which the unit achieves the greatest efficiency.
3. When all rooms are at a comfortable temperature, take an electronic thermometer and measure the temperature near your regulator.
4. Select the measured value on the thermostat as the heater shutdown threshold. Enter the required settings into the programmer.

Important clarification. The gas boiler operates with maximum efficiency at a temperature range of 80/60 °C (supply/return).

Let us explain the purpose of these manipulations. Due to different areas and heat losses, the temperature in the rooms may differ by 1-3 degrees, so it is better to navigate by the degree of heating of the air near the sensor itself.

If the temperature at the point where the regulator is installed is very different from other rooms, when setting, you need to make an adjustment for the magnitude of this difference. Some models, for example, Baxi Magic Plus, provide a function for such adjustment (called temperature shift). Then all that remains is to enter the desired value into the device’s memory, ranging from 1 to 5 degrees.

Types of remote heating control systems

In addition to the presented remote boiler control systems - using the Internet and using cellular communications, there is a third type, which is called combined. In this case, remote control of the heating boiler can be carried out in any convenient way, either using the Internet or using a mobile phone.

The following operating modes are provided for this system:

1. Automatic - here the gsm controller for the heating boiler executes a number of specific programs, processing information received from external sources.
2. SMS - operates by transmitting the parameters of the temperature sensor to the phone in the form of SMS messages, in this case the controller for the boiler configures the heating system using the input data.
3. Warning – sends alarming SMS when critical situations arise.
4. Provider - carries out remote coordination of related devices, such as heating elements for heating water, a thermostat for electric heaters, an electric boiler control unit or a gas boiler control board.

The equipment for the presented remote monitoring system has the highest cost. However, in this case, remote control can be carried out in any convenient way and from any location.

Design and principle of operation

The gas boiler is controlled via GSM using a small-sized GSM module. Of value are universal devices that can interact with several models of units, for example, the domestic Telemetrics module is capable of functioning with a dozen boiler units of Russian and Western production. The module organizes the transfer of data on the performance of the unit and thermal conditions in the house using SMS messages or through software applications.

The GSM agent performs remote control of the boiler operating modes, so the house will be heated with a preset internal air temperature when the residents arrive, and in their absence, the rooms will be heated in standby mode. The advantage of such control is that it is implemented by one responsible person, using constant access to the current operating parameters of the heat supply system.

The installation of a GSM thermostat is capable of taking over control of the thermal processes of the boiler, and user access to it is possible from any region of the planet equipped with mobile communications. Modern gas boilers are a complex of complex interconnected systems; incorrect regulation of even one parameter will cause an emergency when operating expensive equipment.

Modern units are produced non-volatile. Even if the owner receives a signal that the power or water is turned off in the house, he will be able to quickly respond online to prevent accidents.

Options for controlling the boiler via smartphone

Three solutions are available for remote control of a domestic gas boiler:

• GSM module connection;
• use of a “smart thermostat” via WI-FI communication;
• installation of thermostats.

Each remote control method is good in its own way, and its choice depends on several factors: availability of the Internet, gas boiler model, financial capabilities.

Let's consider all three options - one of them may suit you, and as a result of a partial upgrade, managing the heating system will become much easier.

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Option #1 – connecting the GSM module

This is the most common solution, applicable even in areas not covered by the Internet.

The gas boiler is controlled using a GSM unit - a compact controller module. A SIM card is inserted into it, which personalizes the owner and makes it possible to keep in touch with remote equipment

In order to save money, the homeowner can choose the most suitable cellular operator and favorable tariff.

The GSM module is programmable and its operating principle resembles a computer with limited functions. This block is connected to sensors installed both in equipment and in the environment - in rooms, on the street. Depending on the parameters produced by the sensors, the gas unit automatically changes the program or is controlled from a smartphone.

To communicate with the control unit installed in the house, you will need any electronic device - a laptop, tablet, but it is most convenient to use a smartphone, which is more compact and versatile

For ease of control, selection of modes and programs, developers have created applications for various operating systems: iOS, Android, Windows Phone.

There are several modes by which a gas boiler is controlled:

• Fully automatic control. The unit operates according to the specified parameters entered into the program in advance. If changes are required, the program should be adjusted.
• Transmission of alarm notifications in the event of emergency or repair situations. If there is a gas leak or the boiler suddenly stops working, a signal is sent to the smartphone.
• “Communication” using SMS messages. There is a list of commands that the automatic gas boiler recognizes and then makes changes to the operation of the equipment.
• Advanced management options. Using a special program, you can control all systems connected to the GSM unit.

The advantage of remote control via mobile communication is considered to be almost constant control and unlimited possibilities, depending only on the selected application and installed equipment.

A few more advantages of using a GSM module:

Image gallery Photo from Depending on the modification of the unit, you can connect several mobile phones to the module, and then from 2 to 10 people will be able to monitor the operation of the unit. In addition to the gas boiler, sensors installed in various rooms heated by the boiler can be connected to the module: in the kitchen, in the hall, bedrooms and even in the basement or attic In addition to the controller, key reader, antenna, sensors and power supply, you can connect a microphone, gate control unit and other “smart” devices By installing temperature sensors outside, you can set automatic mode changes depending on weather conditions Monitoring the operation of the boiler by all family membersConnecting additional sensors to the program Possibility of connecting basic or extended configurationsAutomatic operation of “weather” sensors

Problems can happen if the cellular connection is poor. The homeowner needs to carefully monitor the expenditure of funds - if the balance is negative, the ability to control the heating equipment will be interrupted.

Option #2 - using the Internet

If the Internet network extends to the area with your country home, then you can control the gas boiler using it.

A WI-FI router is installed in the house, and an Internet thermostat is connected to the boiler equipment. He is the link between the owner of the building and the heating equipment

As soon as the temperature in the room drops below normal, the sensor transmits a signal to the receiver, which interacts with the boiler and turns on the desired heating mode.

The user can control the entire process from a smartphone, monitor changes, and make adjustments. The provider acts as an intermediary between the home owner and the equipment. For continuous communication, it is important to provide access to the Internet both in the home and at the user’s location.

The advantage of the system is the unlimited number of gas boiler sensors - the heating level can be adjusted in all areas served by the building’s heating system.

As with remote control of a gas boiler via a GSM module, the homeowner can control the heating process remotely and make relevant changes. It is possible to install a program that changes the boiler operating mode depending on the time of day, days of the week, and season.

Thermostats, the operation of which depends only on the stability of the Internet connection, are different, but their operating principles are similar.

Portable temperature sensors with preset settings are installed in living rooms and other heated rooms. They are connected to an electronic thermometer, the program of which includes operating parameters

If desired, you can set an economical temperature regime for water used for domestic use or for heating “warm floors”.

The operation of the boiler and other equipment can be monitored using application diagrams or graphs. If an unusual situation occurs, the user receives alerts.

The boiler is controlled from an electronic device - a personal computer, tablet, smartphone, but there is also the possibility of manual control from a panel on the unit.

Option #3 – installing thermostats

If a router is installed in the house and the Internet is connected, it is possible to control even an old boiler model without electronic components and automation.

To do this, you need to buy universal type thermostats and create a network connecting all heating equipment. The system can be controlled via an Internet connection

The main element of the system is an electronic controller and a WI-FI transmitter “all in one”. It is programmed, after which it becomes possible to control heating functions in different zones. The number of such zones depends only on the capabilities of the homeowner - electronic thermostats can be installed on each radiator.

The controller is connected via a special channel to the boiler shutdown unit. If the need arises, the unit is turned off from a distance of hundreds of kilometers or from the next room. The controller is controlled not only wirelessly, but also manually, directly on the unit.

The thermostat system easily covers several zones, and up to 6 thermostats can be installed in each area.

Modulating burners, OpenTherm protocol and weather-compensated automation

Today, the most modern and technologically advanced heating control systems are devices operating under the OpenTherm protocol.

Without going into highly specialized details, we will consider three main features that distinguish equipment with OpenTherm from the one described above.

Feature one: flame modulation control

The emergence of new gas boilers with burners capable of controlling flame modulation has opened up new opportunities in organizing economical and efficient heating. Let us explain that flame modulation is the regulation of heating power. If the power is too high, the boiler switches on and off frequently (clocking), and if the power is low, achieving the set temperature becomes impossible. Those. The best flame modulation is considered to be the combustion level at which the boiler does not turn off and the set temperature value is reached. In other words, flame modulation control is the ability of the boiler automation, depending on external conditions, to optimally change the burning intensity of the burner flame without turning it off. None of the boiler control methods described above can control flame modulation. To work with the new burners, the OpenTherm protocol was invented, which made it possible to effectively combine the functioning of the new burners with the capabilities of “smart” weather-dependent automation and electronics.

Feature two: working with automation

In essence, OpenTherm is a bridge that has been built between boiler manufacturers and manufacturers of other electronics and automation. A single protocol that does not depend on anyone standardly describes all the basic commands for working with modulating burners. This allows you to connect a wide variety of equipment to it: from a thermostat to programmable temperature controllers, to which a large number of temperature sensors can be connected. Modern thermal controllers are programmable devices that are able to process the readings of temperature sensors located both in various zones of a heated facility and on the street. The heat controller maintains a set target temperature value and can change it depending on user commands, time of day or day of the week. Analyzing the received temperature data outside and inside the room, the controller sets a weather-dependent operating mode for the modulating burner of the boiler and pumps (see Fig. 3).

Fig.3. Temperature regulation using the Teplocom Cloud heat informer

On the graph we can see that the burner practically does not turn off, but only changes the intensity of its combustion. At the same time, regardless of external conditions, the target temperature graph changes extremely slightly and lies within the hysteresis limits of the heating system. Additional advantages of this control system are a noticeable increase in the burner's operating life (there are no ignition, rapid heating and cooling cycles), and significant savings in gas fuel are achieved.

Feature three: access to automation settings and error logging

The presence of “smart” control and the existence of feedback between the boiler and the control equipment opens up the third feature of the OpenTherm protocol - the ability to get full access to the boiler automation settings using one protocol and change them from any control device (smartphone). Additionally, access to information about all errors that occurred during the operation of the thermal system is opened, which provides an invaluable tool for personnel servicing and monitoring the operation of the equipment.

pros:

• Minimal fluctuations in air temperature in the house, regardless of the temperature outside, which ensures maximum comfort;
• Minimum fuel consumption compared to other control methods;
• The temperature is adjusted by changing the modulation of the burner flame, which minimizes the number of on/off cycles;
• Possibility of remote monitoring of the boiler condition and changing its settings.

Minuses:

• Higher price compared to other equipment, which is compensated by lower gas consumption.

Operating principle of the control unit (controller) for boilers

Controllers are electronic devices that are designed to optimize the control of a gas heating device under changing environmental conditions. The capabilities and functions of different devices differ, but they are united by the presence of pressure and temperature sensors.

Example of controller connection diagram

The electronic gas boiler control unit (ECU) is responsible for the operation of the gas burner, heating of the coolant and the safety of the system as a whole. Its operating principle is based on the use of an electromagnetic valve.

The controllers of the latest heating devices are equipped with an automatic mode function, which allows you to regulate the operation of the device during the week without human intervention.

Connecting the computer to external temperature sensors and boiler control terminals allows you to configure independent changes in the operation of the burner.

For such a controller, it is necessary to install a voltage stabilizer and an uninterruptible power supply to ensure the operation of the boiler during voltage surges in the network or in its absence.

Heat informator TEPLOCOM CLOUD

In this article we looked at the main ways to control a heating boiler - from manual to automatic, using modulating burners with OpenTherm. One of the modern devices that are capable of implementing the latest technologies for controlling the heating system is the TEPLOCOM CLOUD . This is an electronic device whose expanded functionality goes far beyond simply maintaining a stable temperature in the house. Based on “cloud technology”, it implements a mechanism for transmitting information from connected equipment and remotely controlling it via a smartphone.

TEPLOCOM CLOUD - the heat of your home is always under control!

Capabilities of the TEPLOCOM CLOUD heat information device:

• Informing about accidents and the condition of the heating system. Control the boiler via a smartphone from anywhere in the world.
• Constant monitoring of the condition of the gas boiler, the temperature outside and in the house, the temperature of the coolant, the occurrence of leaks, the presence of a 220V network. It is possible to connect contact sensors for additional notification.
• The temperature is controlled depending on the outside temperature using WeatControl technology, which minimizes temperature fluctuations in the house during the day.
• Individual schedule of comfortable temperature for the whole week.
• Possibility of placing up to 10 wireless temperature sensors within a radius of 300 meters.
• Reducing gas consumption by up to 30% and combating harmful emissions into the atmosphere by reducing the carbon dioxide produced.
• Free applications for working with TEPLOCOM CLOUD on Android and iOS.
• The delivery set includes: heat informer, wireless radio temperature sensor, leakage sensor, outdoor temperature sensor, coolant temperature sensor, GSM SIM card, built-in Li-ion battery.

Thanks to WaetControl technology, the heating system is controlled taking into account changes in the weather outside. Which minimizes temperature fluctuations in the house during the day.

Thus, we see that there are a large number of devices that ensure the operation of thermal systems with varying degrees of comfort and efficiency. The choice of the best one, as always, remains with the consumer.

How to choose the right model

The main criterion is the specification of the model. There are devices that are suitable only for certain models of boilers from one manufacturer; they are produced as additional equipment for the boiler; information about their purpose is usually contained in the name itself. Of course, if this is possible, it is better to choose a GSM module from the same manufacturer as the boiler (it will be tailored to a specific line of models and their specifics).

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But there are also universal models that are suitable for absolutely any boiler that has the appropriate terminals; it is these universal GSM modules that are discussed in the article.

Today, the choice of universal GSM modules is small (about 20-25 models), so it is difficult to identify a sufficient number of criteria. We recommend studying the most famous and successful models (see below) and choosing from them, studying the functionality and convenience of each, comparing prices. But we also recommend paying attention to criteria such as:

1. The presence of an application and web interface that significantly simplifies management and allows you to see and analyze work statistics. If the manufacturer has not provided interface examples, it is worth looking for screenshots in the image search of any search engine.

   
   An example of the web interface of ZONT modules, the interface is available in your personal account on the manufacturer’s website.

2. Standard equipment. Some modules are supplied with external temperature sensors, which can be placed in rooms remote from the boiler room and be guided by their measurements, which is an obvious advantage. A good option is the one with an external antenna, which allows you to seriously improve the quality of communication, and in some cases, when you move the antenna higher, you can even catch a signal that is missing on the ground floor or in the basement of a remote house.
3. The capacity of the built-in battery should be at least 100-150 mAh, with these parameters it will be enough for 2-4 hours of operation of the module.

How to make an automatic control unit with your own hands

You can make a unit yourself based on a conventional thermostat, available in retail chains selling electrical goods.

There are three contacts inside this device - common, open and closed. Their position can be changed by rotating the adjusting knob.

You need to do the following:

1. Set the handle to the minimum mark.
2. Connect the phase to the common contact.
3. Connect one wire from the turbine to the open (open) contact.
4. Connect direct zero to the second wire from the turbine.

The solid fuel heating system will operate reliably and uninterruptedly thanks to properly installed and configured automated control devices. You can find out about the fireplace in the apartment by following the link.

Remote control of the boiler using multifunctional thermostats

When the house has an outdated heat supply system without any hint of the ability to connect electronic units, there are no three-way valves and other automatic equipment - you can buy universal thermostats on the market that can easily be combined into a branched system into many zones with the ability to control heating via the Internet.

The kit of such equipment includes an electronic controller, where all settings for each zone take place.

It doubles as a WI-FI transmitter-receiver and through this channel “communicates” with electronic thermostats installed on each battery.

Remote control of the boiler using a Vaillant programmer

It has a separate channel connection with the boiler shutdown unit. Heating parameters can be changed either on the controller itself manually or via the Internet.

Some remote heating control systems of this type allow you to control up to 8 zones, each with 6 thermostats.

Video description

About the automation that regulates the air supply to solid fuel boilers

Automation for a solid fuel boiler allows you to provide optimal combustion parameters for the fuel. This is achieved by controlling devices such as a circulation pump, fan and some others. Combustion data is collected using special sensors and transmitted to an electronic controller. After processing the received information, he makes appropriate changes to the operating mode of the solid fuel boiler.

Blower fan for boiler Source tproekt.com

Combustion occurs over a long period of time. At the same time, the fuel gradually burns out and the operating mode changes. If no action is taken, the efficiency of the boiler will decrease. To do this manually, the master needs appropriate knowledge and experience. The automatic system makes the necessary adjustments with minimal human intervention. This improves not only the efficiency, but also the safety of its operation.

Adjustable ash door Source tproekt.com

The most common breakdowns in the control unit

Since the control unit is a whole system, a failure can occur from any deviation of a component of this system. The most common malfunctions and their causes :

• the burner went out - air got into the gas pipeline;
• heating problems - poor gas supply, lack of oxygen;
• boiler overheating - closed contacts, prolonged operation at high temperatures, factory defective sensors;
• breakdown of the pneumatic relay (draft sensor) - incorrect connection, fan breakdown, incorrect smoke exhaust system;
• breakdown of the temperature sensor - incorrect connection of contacts, short circuit, overheating of the board;
• breakdown of the pressure switch - low water pressure in the pipes, defective contacts in the circuit board.

Most of these problems are easily fixed, even described in the instructions, but some require the intervention of a specialist.

You should not replace sensors or other parts yourself - this can be dangerous.

Expert advice: how to protect yourself from controller breakdowns

Repair of control units for gas boilers is not a common occurrence. However, before purchasing equipment from a certain manufacturer, ask if there are service centers in your region.

To protect yourself from troubles at the wrong time, you should, with the help of specialists, inspect the boiler before and after the heating season. A network voltage stabilizer will help protect the electrical controller from pressure surges, thereby protecting the device from damage.

You can prevent possible damage to the control unit the first time it is put into operation. The unit system is complex and fragile in its own way; settings may be lost during transportation or assembly of the equipment. Therefore, during installation, they first carefully check all the subtleties associated with the wiring, water and gas supply, and then check the operation of the CU sensors.

The latest models of controllers have been brought to almost complete independence. The gas boiler control unit reports faults using indicators, as can be seen in the diagram below.

If you notice any failure, even a minor one, it is better to immediately call a boiler service specialist, this will prevent a serious breakdown and save yourself from more serious problems.

Heating appliances are often the subject of experiments, which result in towel dryers for example. At a technology competition in 2007 in the United States, among the various designs one could see a radiator in the form of a rack of hangers, designed in the shape of a chair with a heated seat.

Modern home heating equipment is as convenient as possible for users. Having set the necessary parameters for the device, you do not need to constantly monitor its operation, relying on the automatic mode. And timely diagnostics of heating devices will allow you to avoid troubles due to incorrect operation or breakdowns.

An example of installing the controller can be found in the video:

Basic automation functions

The main purpose of automation in heating systems is an instant response to changing situations. One of the main tasks of automatic control devices is to stop the supply of gas to the work area. Situations in which it may be necessary to cut off the supply of household gas may be the following:

• poor operation of the exhaust device, deterioration of draft, in which there is a high probability of harmful combustion products entering the interior;
• sudden changes in operating pressure in the main gas pipeline;
• unauthorized flame extinguishing on the main burner.

In these situations, it is thanks to the automation of the gas boiler that the supply of gas fuel is controlled, which ensures the safety of residents. It is for safety reasons that, in accordance with existing standards, it is necessary to equip all old models of gas heating equipment with automatic systems, the standard equipment of which did not include equipping with these devices. As for the latest gas heating units, these are boilers with automation.

Main article: DIY gas burner.

Installation recommendations

A simple automated unit for monitoring and controlling a heating system of the XITAL type can be installed with your own hands if you carefully understand the operating instructions. Mounting the device and installing the sensors is not particularly difficult, as is their connection. The included cables are long enough to carry the sensors throughout your home. But there are nuances that must be taken into account when organizing heating control.

The first is the presence of good GSM coverage at your place of residence. It happens that in one place there is coverage from several cellular operators, but none of them works reliably. In this case, KCITAL is equipped with two slots for SIM cards to duplicate messages. The second caveat is that before inserting the SIM card into the slot, you must contact the operator and disable the sending of any advertising content in the form of SMS. Such messages arriving at the device number may cause malfunctions in its operation.

Advice. It is better to purchase a new SIM card for the heating control unit with a “clean” history of use.

The same recommendations can be given regarding devices that interact with the owner via the Internet. The cable connected to the LAN input should not come from a router or modem powered by a 220 V network. Otherwise, if there is a power outage, the communication channel will also be lost. The devices themselves must always have their own battery, which can ensure their operation for at least 3 days. Detailed recommendations for installing XITAL can be obtained by watching the video:

Features and Properties

GSM heating boiler control has the following capabilities:

• ensure the required temperature regime in the house at any time of the year, and there is no need to be close to the boiler to change the temperature;
• from a distance, prepare the house for the arrival of the owners, setting a comfortable temperature there (even if the building has been empty for several weeks, its owners and guests will not have to return to the cold room);
• in winter, prevent freezing of pipes and their subsequent depressurization during unexpected frosts - you can increase the temperature in the boiler while away from home by simply sending a message;
  Boiler control via GSM - the possibility of optimal fuel consumption
• provide remote monitoring of the serviceability of the installed heating system - messages are sent in case of failures;
• heating operation in the shortest possible time in case of emergencies;
• ensure maximum fuel economy;
• increase the operating time of a gas boiler - due to timely response to emergency situations.

That is, GSM heating control by phone or via the Internet provides a previously inaccessible level of comfort in a country house or in a private home. This device is useful for those whose work involves frequent absences, who are often away, and have no one to constantly monitor the heating condition.

Instructions for installing and connecting the GSM module to the boiler

Installation and connection to the boiler for all GSM modules is practically no different, and the detailed algorithm is always described in the device instructions. Let's look at the connection process using the example of "Boiler OK".

How to connect?

To connect and install the GSM module yourself, you must use the instructions included in the kit. Installation and startup of the device occurs as follows:

1. De-energize the heater.
2. Remove the protective casing from the boiler.
3. Secure the module mount to the wall.
4. Insert a SIM card and battery into the module, if necessary.
5. Connect a gsm-based controller to the connector located in the boiler.
6. Connect all sensors to the module.
7. Connect the device to the network.
8. Put on the boiler protective casing.
9. Connect the boiler to the electrical network.

It is worth remembering that to work on a SIM card, you need to choose one of the best mobile operators with good signal quality. When the module is connected for the first time, the user needs to send an SMS to the controller’s SIM card with its number.

If the signal is weak, you must install the included antenna

To better understand the connection process, it is recommended to watch a detailed video to avoid mistakes.

Gsm modules work perfectly with both electric and gas boilers; they can also function with exhaust models. The boiler itself must have an output for connecting the controller. This device helps save energy consumption and greatly simplifies the process of controlling the heating device.

The best known manufacturers and models: characteristics and prices

"Kotel OK"

The most popular on the market, one of the best and most inexpensive GSM modules for heating boilers made in Russia. In addition to the price, it is distinguished by its compact size, extremely simple and easy setup, and the presence of an application that can send commands, including in the form of SMS, which is an excellent option that allows you not to use tariffs with Internet access.

The functionality of the device is quite simple, the minimum required: temperature control, setting alerts, checking boiler operating parameters, and the module also has a built-in relay that allows you to turn the boiler on and off.

Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting a rather simple application with the minimum required functionality and an outdated interface, the presence of an external temperature sensor with a cable length of only 0.5 meters, which does not imply its installation in other rooms remote from the boiler room. The antenna is also not remote, screwed into the device via a threaded connection.

Cost: 3,990 rub.

XITAL GSM 4T

Another well-known, more professional and versatile device with a much richer package. The heating control functionality in it is approximately the same as in the previous “Boiler OK” - the minimum required, however, there are as many as 4 zones for additional devices (flow sensor, smoke sensor, motion sensor, flood sensor, door opening sensor, etc.). Also included is an electronic key and a reader (similar to those installed in intercoms), so you can influence the settings, if desired, only with an electronic key.

The main difference is the presence in the kit of two remote temperature sensors with a wire length of 10 m, as well as a remote wired antenna and a cord for connecting a backup external battery (unfortunately, there is no built-in one). Management and control can be carried out both via SMS and through the application.

The disadvantages, in addition to the lack of a built-in battery, are the ineffective and inconvenient, although understandable, application interface, less attractive appearance with exposed terminals and large dimensions. Please note that for heating you must choose a model that has a “T” at the end.

Cost: 8,640 rub.

EVAN GSM CLIMATE

Also known as ZONT H-1, it features a more modern and convenient application, with ready-made “Economy” and “Comfort” modes, as well as the ability to program boiler operating parameters. It is enough to configure the boiler operating pattern once and the module will automatically issue commands to the boiler to change parameters depending on the time or day of the week. Control via a web interface is also available. The standard package includes one remote temperature sensor and a remote antenna.

Perhaps the only drawbacks are the lack of a built-in battery and only one contact for connecting an external temperature sensor.

Cost: 6,780-8,840 rub.

ZONT H-1V

A more advanced analogue of the previous GSM CLIMATE (ZONT H-1). Despite its less attractive appearance, it has an additional “Anti-Freeze” mode and a built-in battery for autonomous operation during power outages. Number of connected temperature sensors – up to 10 pcs.

Otherwise, due to the same firmware, everything is similar to the previous model: the same control via SMS, application or web interface, which, by the way, is one of the most convenient and functional, with statistics. The kit still includes one remote temperature sensor and a remote wired antenna.

Cost: 7,400-9,200 rubles.

Popular models according to user ratings

The availability of a convenient option has created the preconditions for creating demand for new equipment that can solve many problems. The offer was not long in coming and many companies appeared on the market offering their equipment for sale. The following manufacturers received the greatest fame due to high consumer ratings:

• Vaillant;
• Wisman;
• Buderus;
• Protherm;
• Navien;
• Kiturami;
• Evan;
• Xital.

The list of VIESSMANN products includes heat generators in which adapted units are installed that can interact with boiler control controllers. Also different is the equipment, which is equipped with the latest algorithms that increase the reliability of cascade control.

Plus, the devices of this company are designed to duplicate the system using an additional network; they have the ability to install an additional SIM card.