Update:
I tried to make a new version that’s “better”. supporting a working autotune for different heating systems.
+200 hours later my conclusion about this is fairly disappointing.
First of all most heating systems are already automated. What worked 40 years ago still works perfectly fine.
If you plan on automating your heating system further necessary hardware already includes the software. Having your additional software is overkill and near to useless or even bad depending on how skilled you are.
PID controllers only work in a none changing environment such as the heating system itself but not the room heating (e.g. radiator). Basically you’re not allowed to open windows or doors, which would be controllable but most people have apartments or normal family houses.
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Apartments are controlled by a central heating system which makes it impossible to keep things constant also they are influenced by surrounding apartments and their heating.
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Family houses on the other hand are usually already automated with components tuned by professionals. For old or cheap houses that still have radiators simply buy new smart valves and give a fuck on Tuning and maintaining yourself. average cost 40$/valve
So there are just a very few cases it actually works significantly enough to consider implementing a own PID tuned thermostat. For all others you don’t need this.
Guide:
For those that actually look into making the generic thermostat smarter.
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Don’t use PID controllers on heat elements. (You can but it’s usually senseless)
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Buy sensors for windows and maybe even your doors. I recommend aqara.
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Buy smart Valves if you can.
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Automate your heating system if not already (pumps, flow temperature etc.) but only if you know what you’re doing, else buy something like a NEST
Actually safe energy by:
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Setting up a generic thermostat and an automation that turns it off when you open a window.
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Lower the set-point when leaving the house for longer.
Features:
A nice little feature you might want to add to rooms that get to hot when you close the door and are inside of them is a door sensor. Turn the heating off when you close the door.
Also safe a lot of energy buy closing your curtains in summer and open them in winter whenever you can. For those who invested in smart curtains automate it!
Lower the set-point when away even further and still feel comfortable when coming home by applying a timer or geofencing to your home as well as workplace
Comment:
I’m sad my work led my to a dead end.
I’ll make a full guide on automation for heating systems instead.