The heating in the Smart Home: 5 systems in comparison
Saving energy and still having a cozy and warm apartment – this can be done automatically and conveniently in the Smart Home with heating control via an app. We present five systems in comparison.
Netatmo Thermostat: Chic hardware with clever features
The smart home devices from net atmosphere not only score with a chic look, but above all with clever features that make life in the smart home easier. This is already evident when setting up the schedule: All you have to do is answer five questions for the system to create an individual heating plan based on your habits and personal lifestyle.
If you choose a Netatmo thermostat, you will benefit from other intelligent features: The insulation of the house and the outside temperature are taken into account with the help of Auto-Adapt in order to determine the optimum time for the heating to be switched on. And: If there are any problems with the heating or the battery is running low, the device’s auto-care function will inform you about it.
Netatmo is compatible with Apple HomeKit and also supports Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant.
Honeywell Evohome: Comfortable
Honeywell Evohome is not only controlled via app, but also with a special operating screen.
Image: © Honeywell 2019
A very complete and comfortable system comes from the US concern Honeywell: Evohome. When it comes to heat control, Evohome leaves nothing to be desired – because the system offers, among other things, a special operating screen, a wall thermostat and controller for radiators as well as a gateway for connecting to the Internet. The individual components of the Evohome system look good and fit into any interior.
Admittedly, this all-round carefree package also has its price, because Evohome is not the cheapest system on the market. But it offers a lot of comfort from a single source. Above all, the control is very sophisticated: Thanks to the use of profiles and various zones, the system offers many options for adapting to your own needs. Unlike cheap heating systems, Evohome also has a controller for underfloor heating, which is an absolute plus for many modern homes. However, if you want to install the controller in the underfloor heating, you should hire a specialist, as you have to get to the power grid.
eQ3 Max! and Homematic IP: Fast and inexpensive
The eQ3 Max! system is programmed using a PC app. In the new versions, this can also be done entirely via smartphone.
Image: © eQ3 2019
The Max! system from the smart home market leader eQ3 is characterized in particular by the fact that it is easy to install and can also be dismantled quickly. It is therefore particularly suitable for use in rented apartments: You only need to replace the existing thermostats on the radiators with the Max! devices. A screwdriver is usually enough as a tool, water does not have to be drained. The controllers are powered by long-life batteries that are included. A set of batteries easily lasts for one to two years.
In order to be able to control the system remotely via app, an internet connection and the Max! Cube needed. Its configuration is a little tricky at times, but the instructions help. After registering the individual controllers, the window contact can be attached and registered with the system. This is used to turn down the thermostats during important airing sessions. Then the weekly plan is put together on the PC either with the manufacturer’s program or with the alternative software Max Buddy. Then just download the app and nothing stands in the way of mobile heating.
How many thermostats you choose and whether you need window contacts depends on personal preferences. To start with, one Cube and one thermostat per radiator in the living room and in the bathroom are sufficient. A small disadvantage of the system should not be concealed: other devices such as smoke detectors or motion sensors cannot be integrated. For these purposes, eQ3 Homematic IP in the range. In this smart home system, for example, surveillance cameras can also be controlled.
tado: Simple and stylish
If you want things to be even simpler and don’t value individual control of radiators, a solution such as that offered by Tado is suitable. The system is self-learning – it tries to recognize the rhythm of life of the residents of an apartment or house. It relies on the location data sent by the tado apps on smartphones: as soon as you get close to the house, it heats up. If you don’t have a smartphone with an app, you can’t recognize Tado either.
In addition, the product evaluates the weather report and tries to adapt to special characteristics of the apartment and house. But be careful: Tado only works if you have a central thermostat in your apartment that controls a gas boiler, for example. It doesn’t work with central heating or district heating.
Very detailed and well-founded instructions are supplied for installing the intelligent thermostat. As a rule, laypeople can also install the device – provided they manage to drill a hole in the wall. Once installed, the system practically works by itself and requires no special attention or maintenance. Everything can be controlled and evaluated using an app – and that is also important for registering the position of the residents. If everything runs smoothly, you should be able to save more than 30 percent of the costs with the system. Another plus point: the thermostat and app also look good and support environmentally friendly and economical heating.
Bosch: With a starter package for smart heating
Perfect for beginners: the room climate starter kit from Bosch.
Image: © BOSCH 2022
The associated app guides you step by step through the installation process. Once set up, you can use your smartphone to set your individual comfort temperature or use ready-made modes, such as “Sustainable heating”. With this configuration, your radiators automatically turn down when an open window is detected.
Another plus: The Bosch system can be combined with many other smart home products from the manufacturer, such as lamps. It’s also compatible with Apple’s HomeKit – handy!
It’s worth taking a look at the heating system
It may also be worth taking a look at a heating boiler that is already installed: Some manufacturers, such as Buderus, have been installing devices in their devices for some time in order to upgrade control via an app. Advantage: You don’t need a new system from another manufacturer. It is sufficient to simply download the existing app from the respective app store.
Conclusion: It is easier to save with a smart heating system
Whichever system you choose, smart heating control via an app is practical and saves energy. You can increase or decrease the temperature of the apartment while you’re on the go, or you can rely entirely on automatic and self-learning systems. Experience shows that once you get used to such a system, you no longer want to live and live without it.
Reference-www.turn-on.de
