What is a temperature controller?
A temperature controller is a device that allows the actual value of the temperature to be sensed by a temperature sensor and compared to the specified set point and the desired (preset) set point adjusted by means of an actuator. Thermostats can specify both temperature controllers and temperature sensors without an actuator. After the room temperature rises to the desired level, negative feedback occurs.
How does a temperature controller work?
As part of the control system, the temperature controller ensures that the medium reaches and maintains the desired temperature. To do this, they work in conjunction with measuring devices such as temperature sensors and actuators. Measuring devices such as thermocouples, PTC resistors or NTC resistors record the temperature of the medium and transmit this so-called controlled variable to the controller. These compare the input value with a specified setpoint. They detect deviations and issue positioning commands to the actuators. The latter, for example, is nowadays the most powerful boiler. This affects the controlled system (e.g., hot water or room temperature). In short, a temperature controller is the head of a control system that ensures that a certain media temperature is maintained.
Difference between room temperature and weather dependent controllers
In room temperature-based control, the heater measures the temperature in the room. If it gets too cold here, the output of the heat generator increases and the temperature of the supply water rises. As a result, more energy is released when the surface is heated. If the room temperature is above a certain setpoint, the room temperature-controlled heating system reduces the output and thus the flow temperature. Less energy is released from the heated surface, which reduces fuel consumption. An alternative to room temperature-guided control is weather-compensated heating control. Here, the outside temperature is measured and the flow temperature is adjusted accordingly, which also regulates the output of the heat generator. Basically, it can be said that a lower outdoor temperature requires a higher flow temperature. Which outdoor temperature leads to which flow temperature is defined in a so-called heating curve. You can find detailed instructions on how to change and adjust this in our article on setting the heating curve. When the flow temperature needs to be adjusted, the temperature controller is activated. Both types of control can also be used in combination, in which case we speak of weather-compensated control with room connection. This reacts not only to external temperature changes, but also to internal temperatures.