In article ,
NY wrote:
We're thinking of getting a Hive remote-controlled central heating
controller/thermostat so we can set our heating to come on several hours
before we get home from holiday etc.

I'm trying to work out whether we need a single- or dual-channel
controller. Hive's customer support was di they wouldn't offer any
advice and just said "speak to a qualified central heating installer".
Imagine not being able to offer any pre-sales advice!

We have a combi boiler which currently has a dual-timer: one for the
central heating and one for the hot water. The hot water is pre-heated
in a reservoir in the boiler, hence the reason for being able to time
when that pre-heat comes on and off, so it's not wasting fuel keeping
the reservoir hot overnight.

Hive say "single-channel for combi; dual channel for conventional boiler
with hot water cylinder". Our system sounds as if it has some features
of both: it's mostly heat-on-demand but with timed pre-heat of a small
reservoir in the boiler.

So, single or dual?

If you have a combi, why would you want remote control of on/off for the
water? The tap does that.

Also, are you sure your system doesn't already allow you to set it while
away on holiday? So it comes on the day or whatever you return? Even if a
day or two out, you're not going to use the gas cost of one of these.

I'm not surprised they say to ask a specialist. My guess is it will only
work with a *very* basic system. One with no microprocessor control.

--
*Bigamy is having one wife too many - monogamy is the same

Dave Plowman London SW
To e-mail, change noise into sound.