ecoStat combines operational efficiency with guest comfort. Occupants can raise or lower the temperature within set parameters but programs can only be changed using the dedicated handset – not on the control unit in the room.

There are three modes – ‘Setback’ which is the default setting when the room is occupied, ‘Boost’ for when the occupant requires a higher temperature (this is a settable run-time and reverts to Setback on completion). Finally, ‘Frost’ mode is activated should the room become vacant for longer periods.

ecoStat can control both electric panel heaters and ‘wet’ radiators systems and is capable of controlling most boilers. 

The reliable technologies employed, tamper-proof design and robust manufacture make ecoStat an ideal product for more challenging environments such as student accommodation.

ecoStat knows if rooms are unoccupied or if windows are open and will adjust the heat input accordingly.

The ecoStat3 range

ecoStat3 is the next generation of local controls.

These are intelligent thermostats that manage individual rooms and are the most cost-effective solution in saving unnecessary use of energy in both electric and ‘wet’ heating systems. This new UK designed and manufactured range has just been launched by Prefect Controls.

Simplicity of use (just Boost and Down/Off buttons), robust design and manufacturing, and impressive energy saving has made ecoStat popular with end users and installers since its introduction 25 years ago.

ecoStat3 builds on this performance by integrating a microwave occupancy sensor within the PRE5203EC3 model, along with other technical, performance and usability enhancements.

Developed for student accommodation, ecoStat has also proved popular in HMOs, hotels, hostels, holiday lodges and caravan parks. It is designed to deal with challenging environments. The evidence – 200,000+ fitted controls, still in operation.

The ecoStat2 range

There are five ecostat2 room controllers.

The PRE5502EC2 is the basic model. It has all the features of the other models and is fully programmable, but has no user controls. This unit is ideally suited for communal or access areas such a corridors and stairwells.

The PRE5004EC2 has on/off user control – Occupants can start the programme and switch the unit off.

The PRE5204EC2 is the same as above, but with the addition of an integrated PIR sensor. This will detect movement and start or stop the programme depending on whether it has been set for absence or presence detection.

The PRE5003EC2 has user variable control – Occupants can start the programme, but can also reduce or raise the temperature within the set limits.

The PRE5203EC2 is the same as above, but with the addition of an integrated PIR sensor. This will detect movement and start or stop the programme depending on whether it has been set for absence or presence detection.

How ecoStat works

These examples of temperatures and times are common settings. Location and condition of building can affect performance, but our system is very flexible and can be set to what is required in each situation.

All ecoStat models feature Window-open detection which reduces energy input. The PRE5203EC2 and the PRE5204EC2 also have an integrated PIR sensor which can detect presence or absence. The new PRE5203EC3 has an integrated microwave sensor which serves the same purpose. By detecting when a room is empty and interrupting the Boost mode, for example, will make greater savings.

ecoStat is designed to limit the amount of energy needed for heating.

Boost, Setback and Frost temperatures, and their associated run times are set with the infra-red programming handset – and then locked.

Depending on the ecoStat model installed, the occupant can adjust the heating level of the room but only within the set parameters.

The PIR models will detect absence or presence – and provide even greater energy savings by interrupting the timed programs when it determines if the room is occupied.

The three-stage student profile

The ecoStat PRE5003EC2/EC3 and PRE5203EC2/EC3 enable Energy Managers to set temperatures/times for the 3-stage student profile. Setback mode is the default setting (typically 18°C), but if the student requires more heat, they simply tap the ‘up’ button triggering Boost mode (commonly 23°C). Boost runs for a pre-set time (45 minutes) before reverting to Setback. If the student leaves the room during Boost, the PIR detects their absence and reverts to Setback, likewise if windows are opened heat input is reduced by a programmed percentage. If rooms are vacant for longer periods (typically 12 hours), Frost mode is activated which cuts energy input until the room reaches the pre-set protection against frost temperature which should not be lower than 5°C.

Boost, Setback and Frost, the “three-stage student profile” –  a favourite with Accommodation and Energy Managers.

Data on savings

We have collated data from a number of installations to collate evidence of energy savings. Individual site specifications; the building’s condition; and the profiles/settings used; will all affect the efficiency of the system. However, when data for the consumption of energy is compared with before and after installation, we can demonstrate that ecostat2 repeatedly performs at levels where annual energy savings can be as much as 30%.