Baxi's Simon Osbourne on why heating controls are an easy win for installers.

As we fast approach winter and the radiators have started to go on, many installers will be faced with an increase of calls from homeowners looking for ways to reduce their rising heating bills.


Boiler efficiency, water treatment and regular servicing and maintenance are obviously key – but installers should not forget the important role controls can play. In fact, over a third of UK households with a condensing boiler do not have a room thermostat.


Controls are designed to reduce wastage, providing sufficient heating and hot water for the least possible energy input – it is therefore no surprise that they are an attractive proposition to a homeowner. They effectively put the 'control' back into the hands of the homeowner, allowing them to regulate when the heat comes on, where it comes on and to what temperature.


It is estimated that domestic heating systems account for about 25% of the UK's total emissions of carbon dioxide. However, up to 30% reduction in energy usage can be achieved using a programmable room thermostat.


Controls are also an easy win for installers. They are an easy sell on to an existing job, they are simple to fit and, importantly, they give good results, leaving customers happy and willing to pass on the installer's details for referrals.


Simon Osborne is Baxi's head of product management. To find out more about Baxi products visit www.baxi.co.uk.