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Thermostatic heads are a key element in regulating radiator heating. You can choose either mechanical or digital. Find out the difference between them and which solution will be more suitable for you.
All thermostatic heads, both mechanical and digital, automatically adjust the heating output to the current temperature in each room based on the temperature you set. This ensures energy savings and thermal comfort. Likewise, all thermostatic heads are compatible with all hot water radiators with thermostatic valves regardless of the heat source. If the thread does not fit, you just need to purchase the appropriate adapter.
The difference between digital and mechanical thermostatic heads is in the method of control, regulation principle, and additional functions.
If radiators are not equipped with thermostatic heads, their output is regulated either by a thermostat or thermostatic valves – but with these, you can only set the flow, which is not adjusted based on the room temperature. The result is insufficient temperature or overheating.
The second option is to regulate radiators using a room thermostat. In this case, you do not actually need thermostatic heads, or if you have them, you must leave them fully open for the thermostat to function correctly.
In the case of mechanical heads for heating, regulation works on the principle of liquid expansion. Inside the heads is a liquid that reacts to temperature changes near the radiator. If the room temperature increases, the liquid expands, closing the radiator valve – thereby reducing or stopping the flow of heating water. Conversely, if the room temperature drops below the desired temperature, the liquid contracts and the valve opens, allowing heating water to flow into the radiator again.
As mentioned, mechanical and digital radiator heads also differ in their method of control. With mechanical ones, you set the desired temperature usually on a numerical scale by turning the head. Lower numbers correspond to lower temperatures, higher numbers to higher temperatures. This way, you can set the temperature approximately from 14 to 29 °C. The snowflake or star symbol means frost protection and maintains a temperature around 7 °C. This mode is used in case of long-term absence.
Manual Siemens thermostatic head with a numerical scale
People choose manual heating heads mainly due to their low price and simple operation and maintenance. These thermostatic heads do not require any batteries or power supply, functioning solely on physical principles. Moreover, the operation is straightforward and can be done without any accessories.
Compared to digital radiator heads, mechanical ones have two major disadvantages. The first is less precise regulation – each number on the scale represents a temperature range of about 3 °C. Considering that each degree means 6% of energy consumption for heating, this is certainly not a negligible deviation. Additionally, you set the temperature "by feel," so it can easily happen that you overheat unnecessarily without realizing it – you simply get used to the higher temperature.
The second disadvantage is the inability to program a heating schedule and the absence of remote control. Mechanical heating heads must be set manually directly in the room, so you cannot, for example, heat the house before you arrive home. You can also easily forget to lower the temperature before going to bed or leaving home, which will increase your bills.
Digital thermostatic heads offer a more precise, smarter, and more convenient way of regulation, which also brings higher savings. The room temperature is measured by a temperature sensor and the thermostatic valve is controlled by a motor-driven regulator.
The temperature is not set manually but digitally to the exact degree. You can set the temperature either on a digital display or, in the case of WiFi thermostatic heads, via a mobile app.
In the mobile app, you can also program a heating schedule for all rooms, days, and times separately. This way, you do not need to adjust the heating at all, the temperature will always match your daily routine.
Digital radiator thermostatic head Danfoss
Precise temperature regulation, the ability to program heating modes, and remote control are all features that significantly increase thermal comfort and reduce heating costs. Some models of digital thermostatic heads also have various smart functions, such as open window detection, which further contribute to savings.
Digital radiator thermostatic heads have a slightly higher purchase price and operate on batteries, which need to be replaced. Additionally, in some models, the motor in the head can be slightly noisy.
Every household has different preferences, and it is not possible to say unequivocally which thermostatic heads are the best. Generally, however, mechanical thermostatic heads are more suitable for less demanding users looking for a simpler and cheaper heating regulation solution. Typically, this might be apartment units with district heating, where there is no significant temperature fluctuation.
On the other hand, digital thermostatic heads will be appreciated by anyone who needs to significantly optimize heating operation, increase thermal comfort, and reduce heating costs. This solution is usually chosen by owners of family houses.
If you are still unsure which solution to choose, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to provide expert advice to help you select the ideal radiator heads for your needs.
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