How to choose and connect a GSM module for a boiler

Functions

The standard system of such a remote control has standardized functions:

• GSM module controls the temperature in the house and the coolant;
• generates a daily report on the machine;
• controls the presence of the required voltage in the electrical network of the house;
• the device turns off and turns on several devices from the network on command or at the time of creating an emergency;
• maintains the set thermal regime in the rooms and changes it at a distance;
• allows you to install your own battery, so as not to depend on external sources.

SMS messages about the operation of the heating boiler

Additional remote control functions can be the following:

• makes it possible to constantly monitor the pressure in the heating system of the solid fuel boiler and turn it off;
• allows you to control the level of diesel fuel in the tank (or other liquid fuel);
• can monitor the amount of pellets in the bunker;
• performs security functions in conjunction with motion sensors;
• turns on the fire warning according to the indicators of the flame;
• can block the water line with an electric valve at the request of the leak sensor;
• allows you to control any appliances in the house using your mobile phone.

Remote control of the boiler using multifunctional thermostats

When the house has an outdated heat supply system without any hint of the possibility of connecting electronic components, there are no three-way valves and other automatic equipment - universal thermostats can be purchased on the market, which are easily combined into an extensive system into many zones with the ability to control heating via the Internet.

The set of such equipment includes an electronic controller, where all the settings for each zone take place.

It is also a WI-FI transmitter-receiver and through this channel "communicates" with electronic thermostats installed on each battery.

Remote control of the boiler using the Vaillant programmer

By a separate channel, it has a connection with the boiler shutdown unit. The heating parameters can be changed both on the controller itself manually and via the Internet channel.

How to connect the GSM module to the boiler?

Attention! The module is connected only (!) after the boiler is switched off.

"Ksital" is a boiler remote control system.

Connecting the GSM module to the boiler is carried out in the following sequence:

1. Install sensors. Connect a controller with them;
2. Prepare your SIM card. Disable the card PIN check feature. This step is optional, but recommended for ease of use. Moreover, the device will be protected by its own code, which will not allow sending messages to the SIM card of the module from phones that are not included in a special list of trusted devices;
3. Install the card in the controller;
4. Set the security code of the controller (this is the code you will use when remotely controlling the boiler from a mobile phone);
5. Inform the phone numbers to which SMS will be sent in case of alarm situations.
6. Since the software already has basic settings, immediately after completing the previous steps, the GSM module for heating boilers will start working, and you will have access to basic information about the state of the boiler and the temperature in the room. The settings can be changed according to your conditions.

Attention! The remote access device works only with a positive balance on the SIM card number.

Why you need to control the heating system

Technique boiler control via gsm produced using a special device called a GSM module. The device has the form of a compact unit that can be easily installed on a wall or mounted on a DIN rail. Next, the boiler is controlled via the phone (by setting the SMS of the required format) or using the Internet, then a special application is installed for this purpose.

As a result, it becomes possible to obtain the following benefits:

• the ability to create the required temperature regime in the house, regardless of the current season and being at the same time in any convenient place;
• remotely prepare comfortable climatic conditions inside the house before visiting, because it is more pleasant to come to a country house if it is heated there in advance;
• in winter frosts, you don’t have to worry about depressurization of the heating system, even if it is not possible to visit a country house immediately;
• receive notifications of current problems while away from home;
• immediately stop the heating operation in emergency situations;
• use fuel in an economical mode;
• prevent the occurrence of complex consequences in an emergency, being able to turn off the boiler at any moment.

Thanks to GSM control, heating coordination moves to a new level, having the opportunity to influence current events while being (at the same time) away from the operating unit. This option opens up new opportunities for people who spend a lot of time on the road, not being able to exercise daily control over the operation of the heating system.

About the pros and cons of the GSM module for boilers

Such a system has numerous advantages, the main of which include:

• autonomous operation and remote control;
• updating data with each remote connection;
• no need for human intervention;
• sending data to a cell phone;
• almost zero risk of unauthorized access to the control system;
• fast receipt of data on various emergency situations;
• regular systematization and updating of data that comes from sensors.

The diagram shows all the benefits of the module that its owner receives.They are implemented through competent device settings and correct connection.

But there are also disadvantages to keep in mind:

• dependence on the quality of cellular network coverage. The stability of data transfer, exchange of information with the user depends on this;
• high price. The advanced GSM module costs almost the same as a new gas boiler. But the costs, of course, will pay off over time, because the consumption of fuel and / or electrical energy will be optimized;
• Difficulties with connecting with your own hands. If there is no experience, then connecting the module with all the necessary sensors with your own hands is problematic, as well as setting up the equipment and checking it for operability.

Connecting the GSM module to the boiler

Digital E-BUS

The presence of any built-in digital bus in the boiler provides additional opportunities for control and information. Protherm and Vaillant boilers use their own development - the E-BUS bus, many other boilers use the OpenTherm-based data transmission method. If you want to get the most information from your boiler and expand its control capabilities, with an increase in the cost of equipment by 4000-6000 rubles, use the Zont device with a built-in E-Bus input or use an additional Adapter.

Digital bus control provides:

• smooth control of the boiler power,
• control of operating parameters of the boiler,
• changing the heating and DHW temperature settings
• alarm and error indication.

Popular models according to users

The list includes running models on the Russian market with the best combination of price and quality:

• Xital GSM with modifications 4T, 8T and 12T - the numbers indicate the number of zones / rooms that can be controlled. The device is suitable for any boiler, the cost is from 8 to 10 thousand rubles.
• Sapsan Pro 6 for any boiler equipment, you can bind up to 10 numbers. The cost is from 10 to 16,500 rubles.
• Telcom 2 only for De Dietrich, connects up to 5 numbers.
• The GSM module from Teplocom is suitable for any heating system and requires minimal settings. Request from 6,000 rubles.
• Vitocom 100 only for Viessmann, up to two numbers can be connected. The price varies from 26 to 30 thousand rubles.
• Logomatic PRO GSM only for Buderus (more often used for floor boilers), the maximum number of numbers is 16. This model will cost 30,000 rubles.

When choosing, be guided by how much equipment you want to control, what power it is, what additional indicators you want to connect, and the features of the thermal regime in the room.

How to connect the gsm module to the boiler

The procedure for connecting the network controller to the heating units is carried out in a certain sequence, consists of several stages:

1. Installation of sensors in the room and inside the boiler, connecting them to a single controller.
2. Preparing and installing a SIM card. You should disable the PIN code on the card, as well as enter a certain list of trusted numbers.
3. Checking the operation of the system. The GSM module software has a number of basic settings that ensure the start of the functioning of the entire system. The user will have access to data on temperature, mains voltage and other characteristics of the boiler.

Benefits of remote control systems

First you need to determine the method of the upcoming remote control of the heating boiler, choosing one of two options. In the first case, the boiler is controlled via the Internet, for which it is necessary to have an Internet connection. In the second case, this mission is performed by cellular communication, which is more suitable for a house located at a distance from city communications.

Internet control

In the case of installing remote control of a gas boiler using the Internet, you can get a series of additional benefits.

After installation, in the heating system, the necessary control elements open up the following possibilities:

• remote control of various functions of the heating boiler, including the operating modes of the circulation pump;
• by installing the required number of sensors, it is possible to determine different temperature conditions for several zones;
• remote coordination of hot water supply, in case of installation of a double-circuit boiler;
• round-the-clock control over the current state of the operating heating system;
• the most economical fuel consumption, because with a long absence there is no need to maintain the usual microclimate.

These advantages are only a basic set of options available for a single heating system. If desired, control over the internal temperature of the house can be taken to the next level by applying a more versatile version that uses an Internet gateway and an automated heating system control node.

In this case, it will be possible to additionally control heating elements, oil coolers or electric convectors.Among other things, the list of systems for remote control of the boiler may include a fire alarm, which will not be superfluous if the house is built of wood.

Cellular control

An alternative for the control unit for the heating system of a country house is a GSM module operating from a cellular network. Remote activation via SMS messages, in order to transmit information to the control panel of the boiler, has personal advantages:

• small dimensions of the device interacting with the smartphone;
• mobility - location for installation in any suitable place;
• ease of operation;
• for insurance, you can use two communication lines at once, the device is designed to install an additional SIM card.

Such a device is used in the absence of the ability to connect to the Internet. This quality allows you to use the remote control unit for a gas boiler even in remote areas.

Programmers and thermostats - the main elements of heating control

Heating programmer

For the organization of autonomous heat supply, electronic devices will be needed. They can have a heating boiler control panel, the ability to simultaneously change the steam meters in several connected components.

These devices are called programmers or electronic thermostats. Like other similar devices, they can have heating control via SMS or the Internet. But these are just additional features. To select the optimal model, you need to know the main functional qualities of the programmer:

• The number of connected circuits. It can vary from 1 to 12. An additional module is installed to increase the number of connectors;
• System operating modes.Depending on the settings, you can set the control of heating radiators in economy mode, normal and comfort;
• Plug-in - heating control by telephone. GSM station transmits the required information via SMS - coolant temperature, emergency mode notification, etc.;
• The presence of radio transmitters to create wireless communication channels between the connected heating components.

Connecting the programmer to the boiler

But in addition to local devices, there are also zone devices installed on specific components - boilers, radiators. By controlling heating via the Internet using these devices, you can adjust the degree of water heating in the system, the temperature regime in a particular battery. Often such devices are called not programmers, but electronic temperature controllers.

They are more affordable and easier to install. For thermostats, a heating control cabinet is not needed, which reduces the complexity of the arrangement. In some cases, it is possible to connect several thermostats to a single control unit.

What should be considered when budgeting for smart heating? In addition to the cost of the control element, you need to know the approximate price for consumables - communication wires, a heating control panel. The latter is required when installing a system of several blocks - a programmer, a GSM module, expansion bars for additional contactors.

Model	Purpose	Cost, rub.
Computherm Q3	Wired thermostat	1625
Computherm Q3 RF	Wireless thermostat	3367
PROTHERM Kromschroder E8.4401	Programmer. Management of 4 boilers, DHW, 15 heating circuits	34533
Heating control board	RCD, boiler control units, connection to temperature sensors	From 7000

It is also important to consider the location - the heating control box must be installed in an accessible place. Its installation in a boiler room is not recommended, although in terms of labor intensity this is the easiest option.

It is best to install in the living room. Then it will be possible to control and change the system parameters much more often.

How to choose

The GSM module for heating boilers should be chosen based on its main and additional functions, as well as technical parameters:

As for the control, the adjustment is carried out using the buttons on the touch panel and SMS commands that are sent from the smartphone. The programmers of reputable companies are controlled by special software. Firms Viessmann (Wismann) and Buderus (Buderus) release programs for Android (Android) and iOS (iPhone) systems, which make it possible to get instant remote access to the heating unit

It is worth paying attention when buying a standard set of the device. Based on the selected model, GSM can have automatic gas level control, a remote room temperature sensor

Look at the number of tuning channels. It is this indicator that affects the number of included temperature sensors and other equipment. Conventional models have two channels, one of which is used when connecting a remote regulator - remote control of the gas boiler by module. The second is used to send a signal via SMS. Now about the microprocessor. Cheaper models contain only a couple of elementary functions and operating modes. More expensive devices contain a built-in control regulator for the week.Such a remote control of a heating boiler is powered by an electrical network, so you should pay attention to the battery. If the voltage suddenly turns off, then the power automatically switches to the battery. The battery capacity should be enough for good independent operation of the GSM module for several hours. During frequent power outages, a battery with a larger capacity is purchased.

Manufacturers

GSM boiler control can be offered on the market by manufacturers of heating boilers and independent companies that are aimed at producing specific automation.

The difference between common automated systems is flexibility, connecting several types of devices for parallel maintenance. That is, they will be an excellent option for any heating unit and will be able to service, for example, a security system and household equipment in a house at the same time.

The choice will be made from such well-known models and manufacturers as Evan, Vaillant, Viessmann, Protherm, Xital, Buderus. All have a standard set of functions for connecting several temperature sensors and monitoring the functioning of the boiler, the air temperature in the rooms and outside the window.

Manufacturing company	Model	Average price, rub.
Vaillant	ZONT H-1 (Evan)	8 400
Viessmann	Vitocom 100 module (type GSM2)	13 200
Buderus	Buderus Logamatic Easycom (PRO)	65 000 (270 000)
Protherm	GSM module for Protherm boiler	7 500
telemetry	GSM module for boiler GSM-thermometer	8 800
Xital	GSM-4T	7 700 rub.
Xital	GSM-8T	8 200 rub.
Xital	GSM-12T	8 400
Evan	GSM Climate	7 500

Remote control of the boiler is quite convenient and rational. After all, the GSM module allows not only to control the heating system at a distance, but also to save money and be aware of all the problems that arise.

Operation features

Automatic boiler control can be installed on any boiler, regardless of the fuel used. When installing the GSM boiler control module, the operation features of each type of boiler are taken into account, the equipment operation mode and resource consumption are optimized.

• In pellet boilers (which use wood pellets as fuel), the device can automatically adjust the fuel supply to the furnace, the system will signal a power outage or burner attenuation.
• During the operation of electric boilers, the controller will monitor the voltage in the system and give alarms in case of a sharp decrease in power.
• Diesel boilers are most often used for heating large industrial premises, and the equipment itself can combine several units. GSM module for heating boilers allows you to combine the incoming information about the state of the boilers in one center, reduce the maintenance staff to 1 person. The system will regularly, in a timely manner, give signals about the need to refill the tanks.

GSM-Thermometer is a module for remote control of boilers.

What is included in the GSM package

The configuration depends on the manufacturer and model of the product. The following parts are included as standard.

Controller (GSM-module) is a device with a different number of inputs, expandable if you need to connect additional functions. Models in the low price segment contain a couple of standard features and operating modes. In more expensive devices, a weekly control regulator is built in advance.

Portable temperature sensors, from two to ten - it depends on the type of module. Designed for different rooms, including outdoor ones.The optimal number is five, provided that one of them will be on the street.

Standard type of heat sensor (street and room) to control the temperature in the whole house or in certain rooms

A GSM antenna is needed to amplify the signal. She is responsible for establishing continuous communication with the owner of the equipment and with the towers of the mobile operator.

Through the relay (in most models up to 3 pcs.) Feedback is provided to the owner. In the user manual in all modules there is a list of codes that characterize all normal and abnormal situations and codes for feedback.

Standard configuration of the gsm module on the example of model 4T from the manufacturer "Ksital". All components are connected and prepared for installation (+)

Additional sensors (such as motion and fire) are also needed. More often than not, users buy them on their own, depending on their needs.

The battery may optionally be present in some models. Manufacturers most often put lithium-ion. This is an important component, as battery life depends on it. If the voltage is turned off, the power will automatically transfer to the battery.

The battery capacity should be enough for the full operation of the GSM module for at least five hours, better - up to two days. If you know that power outages occur frequently in your area, then it makes sense to purchase a battery with a larger capacity.

The master key prevents unauthorized persons from interfering with the heating system and removes the locks you have set.

Touch memory electronic key reader in the GSM model of the Ksisal module.Used to protect against unauthorized intervention in the control of the boiler

In addition, in the kit you can find an electronic key reader, a touch screen, pads for connecting to the boiler, coils of connecting wires. You can buy additional components if necessary or “assemble” a set to suit your needs.

What are the capabilities of the GSM module?

There are several factors that affect the functionality of the remote control unit. These include:

• whether a rack-and-pinion block is present (allows you to switch modes and supports feedback);
• the purpose of the connected sensors and the number of zones that are controlled;
• controller firmware version (this allows you to expand the functionality).

GSM module

If we talk about the basic configuration, then the described devices are capable of the following:

• temperature monitoring, data transmission to the user;
• power supply or power outage.

A sample report in the mobile phone program on the life of the boiler when the standard mode is activated (indicated by the user as "0")

And in the following cases, information can be submitted to the user's phone through a regular call or SMS message:

• the limit temperature has been reached. The user can be informed about the abrupt cooling of the coolant or an increase in its temperature;
• the user sent a specific request. As a result, it receives information from the connected external sensors.

SMS messages about the operation of the heating boilerGSM Climate ZONT H-1 module

As for the extended configuration, in addition to the basic features, it may also contain the following functions:

• temperature setting, as well as response thresholds;
• switching on the electric drive of the entrance gate;
• control of the operation of the heating boiler, regulation of water temperature;
• listening to rooms through the connected microphone;
• exchange of information on the supply of electricity;
• giving signals about the operation of auxiliary sensors and the security system;
• adjusting the power of the heater, taking into account changes in weather conditions.

Boiler connection diagram with GSM control (module)

BOILER CONTROL BY GSM

The remote control of boilers, whether gas or electric, is implemented somewhat differently. Here we are dealing with a coolant, which provides a certain temperature in the home. As a rule, water is used for these purposes, less often - antifreeze, ethylene glycol and more.

Please note that for the most efficient use of the GSM node, a digitally controlled boiler is required.

As a result of stopping the operation of the boiler, there is a high probability of defrosting the system, which entails undesirable consequences. In addition, pipes can be damaged, which will lead to flooding of the premises.

Therefore, it is extremely important that the user receive notifications when the boiler is turned off.

Based on this, it is necessary to implement control of the supply of gas or energy and the state of the temperature of the coolant. In general, you can save money by installing boiler equipment comparable to what was described just above, adding only a thermometer to measure the water temperature. By setting an algorithm for maintaining a certain temperature, the owner will be notified if it drops sharply - it means that something is wrong with the boiler or the gas / electricity supply.

However, it is recommended to purchase special solutions for boilers (they are usually marked) in order to be aware of any change.This may include various sensors, such as carbon monoxide, alarms on the presence or absence of gas / electricity, you can even purchase a pressure sensor.

It is advisable to use an autonomous power source in order to receive information about the operation of the boiler during power outages. Advanced solutions can detect leaks and boiler failures.

Conclusion

Connecting a security system to a GSM network today is possible at minimal cost. The main players in the communication market offer democratic tariff plans with packages of minutes, messages and megabytes of internet. Their budget is about the same - about a hundred rubles a month, but you can save money by purchasing an annual subscription. And MegaFon has the option of a one-time payment "forever", after which the funds are no longer debited from the subscriber.

The choice should be made based on:

• signaling specifics - home, office, car, and so on;
• the intended mode of operation - how many calls and messages may be needed, whether access and / or control via the Internet is required.

It is also important to take into account personal preferences: many are used to using the services of a particular operator, for example, the whole family, and in this case it will be convenient to find tariffs with the “favorite number” function. Then the connection between the alarm SIM card and the owner's phone can become practically free.