Electrical Contracting News (ECN) October 2017 | Page 54

SPECIAL FEATURE HVAC and Android devices is IFTTT (If This Then That), a free web-based application that enables users to create their own, simple automation processes – known as applets – based on a series of conditions. For example, a command for evohome could be, “If current weather condition changes to snow, set zone temperature to X°C.” From the user’s point of view, the key benefit of the home hub is that they don’t need to use a number of different apps to control their various devices – the hub does it for them with a simple voice command. Knowledge is power While home hubs are consumer products at their core, electrical contractors can benefit from understanding each device and how it can be integrated with existing technology, like heating controls. Becoming part of this growing area of the market depends on understanding the world of the digital assistant and smart technology – the payback being the ability to capitalise on the business opportunities available. The chances are that by the time a customer is looking to integrate their heating thermostat into their connected home, they will already have committed to their choice of hub, and this will influence the choice of heating controls. In turn, it will be essential that electrical contractors understand the relevance of learning about digital assistants because they will be expected to know which thermostats are ‘Manufacturers are now making their thermostats compat ible with as many home automation platforms as possible.’ compatible with which home hubs and how they work together. An electrician who can talk confidently and offer advice about this is in the best position to upsell them to their customers. Getting connected Manufacturers are now making their thermostats compatible with as many home automation platforms as possible, so electricians can be confident in recommending a connected control that will integrate seamlessly with their customers’ automation systems, either now or in the future. For example, Honeywell’s Lyric T6 series, evohome and Single Zone thermostats are all compatible with Amazon Echo and are IFTTT-enabled, whilst the Lyric T6 also works with Apple HomeKit and Google Home. Further compatibility with Google Home is also planned for the evohome smart zoning thermostat and the Single Zone thermostat. Moreover, manufacturers are offering the resources that will enable electrical installers to expand their knowledge base and provide the best possible advice to their customers. Honeywell offers advice on which devices are compatible with our product ranges and there are online training resources to assist with setting up connected thermostats to work with home hubs. The introduction of digital assistants into the world of heating controls means that electricians will have to learn more about how a customer’s lifestyle is likely to impact on how they want to use their heating system. Being able to talk with authority and ensuring that the customer feels confident that the specified control will work to its full potential – both today and in the future – is the best way of making the most of the sales opportunity it presents. Becoming part of this growing area of the market depends on understanding the world of the digital assistant and smart technology. Electric flow boilers from Heatrae Sadia. Providing an efficient alternative for properties without a mains gas supply. ✓ No annual gas safety check Low maintenance, better for landlords ✓ No flue necessary For ease and flexibility of installation, can be sited almost anywhere ✓ Radiator and underfloor Amptec and Electromax models available Suitable for many properties ✓ Electromax can provide both heating and hot water Versatile single solution ✓ Amptec can be combined with Megaflo Eco cylinder to control hot water For durability and reliability Amptec Electromax For further information contact: 0330 333 5037 | [email protected] heatraesadia.com Hurricane Way, Norwich, Norfolk NR6 6EA DEPT_201017_HeatraeSadia_Amptec_HalfHoriz_ECN_Oct17_rev1.indd 1 15/09/2017 18:08