Fixed speed versus variable speed smart pumps

There are a few considerations to make when picking a central heating circulation pump, but quite possibly the most important one is whether the pump is a variable speed pump, or a fixed speed pump.

Fixed speed pumps use alternating current (AC) motors, and as their name suggests, they work at a fixed speed and do not offer any configuration options. This means they subsequently consume a large amount of electricity due to the inability to vary the pump’s performance.

Conversely, variable speed pumps, like the Stratos PICO, use electronically commutated (EC) motor technology. This technology means the pump can operate at a variable speed to meet demand and allows for much wider pump configurations. This then allows them to run at much lower speeds than their AC motor counterparts. The speed on variable speed pumps can also be adjusted with user controls, or, in the case of Wilo’s Stratos PICO, it uses Dynamic Adapt Plus technology to constantly adjust to the heating system’s demands.

Due to the rising cost of energy prices, it’s a good idea for installers to move toward these more efficient models as it benefits the homeowner.

How to choose a central heating circulation pump – additional factors

• There are a wide range of heating circulation pumps on the market, and some market leading options, such as the Stratos PICO, include physical features and add-ons to help improve the experience of installers including:
• Thermal insulation shells as standard, as seen on the Stratos PICO, mean installers don’t need to spend time lagging the product
• Helpful electrical connecting features such as the Wilo-Connector, a mains connection cable that simply requires installers to strip three wires down, put them into the correct terminal, shut the terminal to hold the wire in place and put the cover on
• Large colour displays which make programming straightforward and quick at the source of the pump

These features and add-ons make the Stratos PICO ultimately more cost effective, as it reduces the time it takes to install the pump and means you can move onto the next job quicker.

Why smart circulation pumps make your life easier

Newer heating circulation pumps boast a range of benefits to installers as well as helping to save energy and lower running costs for end-users. Today’s models can prevent some of the age-old challenges of being a plumbing and heating installer – joint and back pain.

Our latest heating circulation pumps allow for simple commissioning using the Dynamic Adapt Plus smart feature which automatically adapts to the requirements of the heating system, reducing set up time and time being crouched in tight airing cupboards. It also has Bluetooth connectivity, which allows installers to monitor the pump without having to be at the pump’s interface, thanks to Wilo’s Smart Connect module and the Wilo-Assistant app. Besides that, the Stratos PICO can also be integrated with building management systems through an optional BMS module, meaning it can offer data and performance insights for commercial applications.

Modern day pumps also take away some of the mental stress for installers too. Pre-set applications make choosing the right setting effortless. These assisting software applications also make hydronic balancing straightforward for installers with only minor data entry required to correctly balance a heating system.

Smart safety features on new central heating circulation pumps

The worst-case scenario for many homeowners is a heating system breaking down during the winter when demand is at its peak. That’s why the latest pumps come with adequate safety features too.

Our new models offer peace of mind with self-protecting routines, such as automatic dry-running detection and automatic restart, minimising the risk of product failure. Error codes and alarms indicate when the pump is running dry or if there is dirt in the system, allowing installers to see the history of the fault and achieve a quicker diagnosis.

All pumps on the market should be compliant and certified with the latest regulations, but this is not always the case, with 100,000 non-compliant central heating pumps estimated by the BPMA to be making their way into the UK market every year. For this reason, installers should always work with the latest heating circulation pumps from trusted manufacturers and conscientious wholesalers.

Choose smart circulation pumps this heating season

The future of efficient energy consumption relies on a trusting relationship between installer, customer, and manufacturer.

Once an installer has fitted a new product, it’s important that the pump is looked after in the right way. Thanks to advances in all areas of heating pumps, there is significantly less maintenance for newer pumps than compared to older models, but routine inspections should still be carried out to ensure operation at peak efficiency and maximum energy savings.

For more technical support and more about the Stratos PICO CLICK HERE