Accommodation for Students. Multi-Zone Heating Control for Historic Properties – 6 Properties, 40–45% Energy Savings

Control HQ allows multi-zone control in large historic properties, significantly reducing energy waste, keeping tenants comfortable, and cutting heating costs by up to 45% across six properties.

Source: Accomodation for Students
Q: How did you first hear about Control HQ?

A: I did some research online and found good reviews. I also stumbled across the company through a conversation with one of the salespeople, which helped me learn more about the system.

Q: Why did you want smart heating controls?

A: We had several challenges: Tenants used to smoke in their rooms and leave windows open, which wasted energy. Energy prices were increasing, and a cost analysis showed we needed to do something. The market was moving toward bills-inclusive properties, so controlling costs efficiently was essential. We needed a system that could manage the heating without having to replace the entire gas central heating system. If we hadn’t installed Control HQ, we would have had to consider removing the whole central heating system entirely.

Q: Why did you choose Control HQ?

A: It was the only solution that could control our existing heating system, regardless of the age of the building. Alternatives, like the Timeostat HMO Thermostat, didn’t offer the same level of control – they only manage whole-house heating, and you only get real energy savings with individual room controls.

Q: What were your main considerations before purchasing?

A: Cost was the primary factor. We were also concerned about local support since Control HQ didn’t have engineers in the North East at that time. I like the ticketing support system, but I prefer using the free online forum. Installing the first system was a leap of faith, but once we realised we didn’t need much support, we felt confident rolling it out across our other properties.

Q: How did you design the system?

A: We used the “Create Your System” tool online and then discussed it with a sales team member. For the subsequent installations, Control HQ’s commissioning engineer, Martin Small, handled everything — designing and installing systems for all remaining properties.

Q: What were your first impressions?

A: It was a lot to take in initially. My dad was the landlord, and I didn’t fully understand how the heating systems worked. However, the multi-zone capabilities were crucial. Historic Victorian properties have large temperature variations – too cold downstairs and too hot upstairs. Timostat wouldn’t have worked in these buildings.

Q: How was the installation?

A: Really smooth and straightforward. Everything went according to plan.

Q: How do you use the system day to day?

A: I use the app on the computer when I’m handling admin tasks. When I’m out and about, I use the mobile app. We also plan to let the managing agent manage the properties directly using Control HQ.

Q: How have you found the app?

A: The app is really useful. It took a little time to get used to it, but the transition to the new app has been smooth, and I like using it.

Q: What do you like most about the system?

A: The multi-zone control is the main reason we have it and it’s the best system at that, designed for houses of multiple occupancy. It allows us to control each room individually, which is essential for large, historic properties.

Q: Would you recommend Control HQ?

A: Absolutely. I’ve already been recommending it to others.

Q: Have you calculated the energy savings since installation?

A: Yes. On the first installation, we saved 40 – 45% on energy costs by comparing year-on-year gas usage through the online metering system. After rolling the system out across all six properties, we consistently achieve 35 – 45% savings across all sites.

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