Thermostats

A thermostat, often found as a wall thermostat, is a regulating device that uses remote sensors or internal sensors to detect the rise and fall of temperature in a room, system or device. Thermostats are used for regulating and controlling the temperature in central heating systems, air conditioners, water heaters, HVAC systems, kitchen equipment and medical devices and much more.

RS NZ offers a range of thermostats such as enclosure thermostats, mechanical HVAC thermostats, digital and programmable HVAC thermostats, AC and DC thermostats, as well as digital, wireless, and smart thermostats with Wi-Fi. You can find out more in our thermostats guide.

How Do Thermostats Work

Thermostats function as temperature control devices in both residential and industrial environments. They regulate the temperature of various mediums, such as liquids within tanks or the ambient air in rooms or systems, often in conjunction with air conditioning units.

The core function of a thermostat is to maintain a consistent temperature by activating or deactivating heating or cooling systems as necessary. In residential applications, room thermostats, commonly found on walls, are used to control heating elements like radiators. When the room temperature falls below the set point, the thermostat triggers the heating system. Once the desired temperature is reached, the thermostat automatically switches the heating off to prevent energy wastage and overheating.

Advanced electronic thermostats offer additional programmable features, enabling users to pre-set temperature schedules throughout the day.

Types of Thermostats

Thermostats come in various forms to suit different applications and user preferences. Some of the common types include:

Enclosure Thermostats

These thermostats are specifically designed to regulate the temperature within enclosures, such as electrical cabinets or industrial control panels. They prevent overheating of sensitive components and ensure optimal operating conditions.

Mechanical HVAC Thermostats

These traditional analogue thermostats utilise mechanical parts like bimetallic strips or bellows to sense temperature changes and control heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Digital and Programmable Thermostats

These modern thermostats employ electronic sensors and digital displays for precise temperature control. Programmable thermostats offer the added benefit of scheduling temperature adjustments based on your preferences and daily routines, leading to increased energy efficiency and comfort.

Wireless and Smart Thermostats

Wireless thermostats provide greater flexibility in installation and control, as they can be placed anywhere within range of the receiver unit. Smart thermostats take connectivity to the next level, allowing you to control and monitor your home's temperature remotely through smartphone apps or voice commands. They often incorporate advanced features like learning algorithms and energy usage tracking to further optimise comfort and efficiency.

Benefits of Digital Programmable Thermostats

Digital programmable thermostats offer a range of advantages over traditional analogue models:

• Environmentally Friendly: Unlike analogue thermostats, they do not contain mercury, making them a safer and more eco-conscious choice.
• Precise Temperature Control: Digital thermostats provide a higher level of accuracy and customisation in temperature settings, allowing for greater comfort and energy savings.
• Programmable Features: Enjoy the convenience of pre-set schedules and modes like "holiday" or "cleaning" to optimise energy usage and maintain a comfortable environment even when you're away.
• User-Friendly Interface: Backlit LCD touchscreens and intuitive controls make digital thermostats easy to operate and understand.
• Energy Monitoring: Some models offer real-time energy usage information, helping you track and manage your consumption.
• Remote Access: WiFi-enabled thermostats provide the flexibility to control your heating and cooling systems from anywhere using your smartphone or other connected devices.
• Flexible Placement: With wireless connectivity options, you can install digital thermostats in the most convenient location without being restricted by wiring limitations.

Applications of Thermostats

Thermostats play a crucial role in maintaining precise temperature control across diverse industries and everyday life.

• Central Heating Systems: Thermostats act as the command centre for central heating systems, ensuring optimal comfort in homes and buildings by regulating the temperature of boilers or furnaces.
• Air Conditioning Units: Thermostats work in tandem with air conditioning units to maintain a comfortable indoor climate, automatically adjusting cooling levels based on the desired temperature.
• Water Heaters: Thermostats in water heaters ensure water is heated to a safe and comfortable temperature, preventing scalding and energy wastage.
• HVAC Systems: Thermostats serve as the control hub for complex heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in commercial and industrial buildings, optimising energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
• Medical Devices and Kitchen Equipment: Precision temperature control is vital in medical applications and kitchen appliances. Thermostats are used in incubators, refrigerators, ovens, and other equipment to maintain specific temperatures critical for safety and functionality.

Discover Energy-Saving Thermostats Today

RS NZ, a leading provider of electrical and automation solutions, offers an extensive selection of high-quality thermostats from renowned brands like ABB, Schneider Electric, STEGO, and our own RS PRO. Our online catalogue contains both digital and analogue thermostats, as well as AC and DC models.

Ordering & Delivery Information for NZ

RS NZ strives to make ordering and receiving your thermostats as simple as possible for our New Zealand customers. We offer a wide selection of thermostats and other products like thermal pads and adjustable thermal switches, ready to be shipped to your location.

To place an order, simply browse our online catalogue, add the desired items to your cart, and proceed to checkout. We accept various payment methods to make it easier for you to complete your purchase.

For detailed information on our delivery services, estimated time frames, and associated costs, please visit our Delivery Information page.