Smart valves , like smart thermostats, can become your best ally when it comes to controlling both the temperature inside the house and energy consumption. This provides day-to-day comfort and also economic savings by making optimal use of resources. So for the winter, this is all you need to know about smart valves, their operation, and top models.
What are smart valves
A smart valve is nothing more than a device capable of regulating the temperature of a hot water radiator in a more efficient and, above all, automatic way. To do this, it uses different sensors, an application for mobile devices and a basic element that is the valve itself that can replace manual or thermostatic valves.
Thanks to this technological set as a user, you gain greater control over resources, this offers greater energy efficiency, which together with the comfort it provides also translates into lower consumption, so the bill is reduced.
So, with all this already clear, let’s see the types of valves that exist and how an intelligent valve is installed.
Types of intelligent valves
Basically we can say that there are two types of valves and it is important that we have clear which one of them is. On the one hand there are the manual valves and on the other the thermostatic ones. The latter are really the ones that smart valves replace.
- Manual valves are those where you simply control the flow of hot water that enters the radiator by opening or closing it. There is no type of extra option, so if you leave it open it will always be consuming resources
- The thermostatic valves, on the other hand, also control said flow, but add a small thermostat that allows knowing the exact temperature to open or close the flow depending on the previously selected value.
With these two types of valves the problem is that, in the best case, the most we can do is to maintain a certain temperature, but not adapt it to the needs of each moment in a comfortable and fast way. In addition to not being able to prevent possible unjustified consumption by other types of situations, such as a drop in temperatures depending on the day or by having left some window open.
How to install a smart valve
Installing a smart valve is much easier than it may seem, although there will always be exceptions. For example, if what we are going to replace is the thermostatic valve, we will be able to do it even with the radiator in operation since it does not entail any danger. However, if we are going to remove the manual valve, then we will have to take the appropriate precautions or contact a plumber to do the job.
In any case, the replacement process is as simple as removing the valve and inserting the new one, bearing in mind that the thread matches the new valve. If not, you will have to resort to adapters, something that is not a big problem either because they are standard sizes and it is always possible to find the right one.
Once the smart valve is in place, the next step is to configure it. To do this, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which will consist of downloading the smartphone application, detecting the device and following the steps until it is already connected to your Wi-Fi network. From that moment you can enjoy all the options, integrations with third-party services, etc.
Smart valves, frequently asked questions
Easy right? Well now, a series of common questions that every user interested in a smart valve is usually asked.
- What if there are multiple radiators in the room? In this case, ideally everyone should have their own smart valve. That is the optimal way to really control temperature and consumption efficiently. In addition, having independent control you can set temperatures and custom uses according to the location within the room itself
- What valve does the smart valve replace? Smart valves really replace thermostatic valves, but that does not mean that you cannot remove the manual if you want. Here it is a matter of deciding what interests you the most
- How many valves can be added? Considering the amount of common radiators inside the home there really will be no number issues when using multiple smart valves. If you will use them together with a thermostat, you will have to see the limitations offered by each model, but normally between 10 and 20 valves is what most allow
- The control of each valve is individual , but you can also create routines for groups. As we said before, this allows greater control and efficiency when managing the temperature inside the house
As you can see, there are no big mysteries with the use of smart valves inside the home. Here it is just a matter of seeing what models exist in the market and choosing the one that offers you the most options and convinces by price. Although our recommendation is always to bet on recognized brands. Because integration with third-party devices will always be better and you ensure a longer useful life.
Recommended models of smart valves
Taking into account everything seen, these are the smart valve models that we recommend. Virtually all offer the same options and it is a matter of seeing the small details that make you decide on one or the other.
Netatmo smart valve
Netatmo’s products are together with the other widely known options. Its smart valves are a great proposal that offer WiFi connection to be able to be controlled remotely through the own application.
With an elegant design , it incorporates a small screen that gives information with the current temperature. But the important thing is that you can choose between two modes of use: Comfort and Eco. That plus the use of rules, the possibility of creating your own usage plans and integration with third-party services, even with voice assistants , make it work. a very striking option. You also have different packs.
Tado smart valve
Tado is another of the classic brands in this of the home and smart valves. With different packs, the starter integrates everything you need to start controlling home radiators. Well, one in this case, but you can go for one of the options that includes four valves.
Among its standout features, in addition to smart settings and programming options are support for use alongside smart assistants (Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa) and integration with IFTTT .
EVE smart valve
The EVO smart valve offers all the options that such a device could be asked for, such as advanced control of the temperature and flow of water entering the radiator, consumption planner or rules. Its great advantage is that it does not need any type of bridge that allows communication between the valve and the mobile device.
Compatible with Apple HomeKit, if you do not require a much more complex and numerous installation, this can be a great option for that radiator in your room or living room.
There are many more options that with a simple search on Amazon you will find. Some of them you will see that they offer somewhat more attractive prices, but it is important that you make sure of their integration with the rest of the devices you may have, whether or not they need a bridge, etc. To make it a worthwhile investment.
Our recommendation is this, but it is you who decides. With all that we have seen, what we do hope is that everything that this type of product offers has become clear to you. Advantages that, in short, are lower energy consumption, lower costs on bills and greater comfort within the home. In addition, the integration with voice assistants makes it even more comfortable to set the right temperature at all times.
