Installing Control HQ smart heating controls has transformed how these two converted properties are managed. With independent room control, remote access, and seamless monitoring across both sites, the system has delivered energy savings, improved comfort, and greater environmental responsibility — all while keeping operational costs under control.
In a recent interview, Imran Aslam explained that for landlords managing multiple properties, this approach has proven to be an effective way to combine efficiency, sustainability, and tenant satisfaction.
A: The plumber I was working with on a project had used Control HQ before and spoke very highly of it. In 2019, I was converting a former dental surgery into a 9-bedroom HMO, and I knew there would be more projects to follow, so I wanted to find the right heating control solution from the start.
A: From the beginning, I knew that the properties would be “bills included”, so energy efficiency was essential. Tenants naturally don’t think about heating costs, so I wanted a way to keep control over energy use while still offering each room its own heating comfort.
Plumbing costs for a traditional zoned system were going to be very high — we would have needed to re-pipe and install zone valves, which wasn’t practical for a conversion project like this. I needed room-by-room control without having to rebuild the whole heating system.
Control HQ made that possible. By fitting smart radiator valves to each radiator, we achieved full independent heating control for every room. Each tenant can now have the temperature they prefer — just like in their own home — while the system automatically keeps things efficient behind the scenes. It’s the best of both worlds: premium comfort and lower running costs.
A: The system came recommended by my plumber, Sam, who was also the main contractor on the project. After seeing how well it worked on the first HMO, I didn’t hesitate to use it again when we purchased the building next door, a former solicitors’ office.
That second project added another 9 bedrooms, bringing the total to 18 rooms across two buildings. Because Control HQ allows me to manage multiple properties from the same app, I can now monitor and control both HMOs seamlessly — it’s one simple dashboard for everything.
A: I wanted to make sure I could access the system remotely, from my phone or laptop, without needing to visit the properties. Being able to see what’s happening, adjust schedules, and monitor heating issues from anywhere was essential.
There are other systems marketed for HMOs, but none of them could cope with the complexity of my buildings or offer the same level of control. Most are too basic — they don’t give you proper zoning or energy insight. Control HQ could handle the job easily.
A: At the start, I wasn’t sure about the support and aftercare. Back in 2019, Control HQ was still a small company, and I didn’t know how reliable the service would be long term.
However, after six years, I can say that the support has been excellent. On the few occasions I’ve needed help, the team have been quick to respond and really knowledgeable.
Online reviews were also reassuring — most people who had used the system had very positive experiences. My own experience definitely matches that.
A: I worked with the Control HQ sales team, sending them the architects’ drawings for the properties. They helped design the layout, showing exactly where each component should go and even marking up the drawings with the recommended placements.
That guidance was a big help, especially with the first property, and it gave me confidence that everything was planned properly before we started the installation.
A: Initially, it felt quite complex — the system does a lot more than I realised at first. But that’s what I wanted: something powerful enough to handle a complicated heating setup with lots of rooms and valves.
Once I got to grips with it, I could see just how much flexibility it offered. There’s so much more functionality compared to other heating control systems on the market. It can do everything from individual room control to advanced scheduling and performance monitoring, which makes it ideal for large HMOs or multi-building estates.
A: The installation was done by my own plumbing team. Everything came pre-programmed and clearly labelled, so it was straightforward to install and worked right out of the box.
Control HQ provided detailed instructions, and the team were able to fit and set up the system easily. Having it all configured for my property in advance saved a lot of time and ensured everything worked correctly from day one.
A: I use it mainly on my mobile phone (around 90% of the time) and occasionally on the computer. The app makes it easy to check room temperatures, set heating schedules, and monitor performance.
I’m looking forward to using the new version of the app, which I understand is designed with larger property portfolios in mind. For now, the existing app does everything I need it to — it’s reliable, straightforward, and gives me full control from anywhere.
A: It was a bit complicated at first, but once I understood how it worked, it made sense. The app needs to be detailed because the system does so much more than simple on/off heating controls.
Now that I know my way around it, I find it very easy to use and appreciate how powerful it is compared to other, more limited systems.
A: I really like that it can handle different heating setups. In the first property, the zoning was done through the radiator valves, and in the second, I had the plumbing zoned as well — yet both systems work perfectly together under the same Control HQ setup.
It’s seamless control across two very different buildings, which makes management incredibly simple.
A: Yes — and no, depending on the situation. For larger, more complex buildings like HMOs, hotels, or multi-room properties where energy management and individual room control are important, absolutely yes.
However, for smaller properties with just a combi boiler and basic TRVs, it’s probably more advanced than you’d need. Control HQ really shines where there are multiple rooms, high energy bills, and a need for efficient, sustainable heating management.
By using Control HQ across both HMOs, we’ve significantly reduced wasted energy. Heating is only delivered where it’s needed, and tenants can manage their own comfort without affecting others.
The system’s precision control prevents overheating and helps lower gas consumption, meaning we’re using less energy overall and reducing our carbon footprint. It’s a simple, smart way to make older buildings more efficient without costly renovations — a win for both the environment and the bottom line.
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