Energy savings from domestic zonal heating controls: robust evidence from a controlled field trial

Domestic zonal heating controls enable hydronic systems to heat rooms different temperatures at times. The first credible evidence known the authors, of in-use energy savings such controls, is reported. results and research methods are globally relevant. demands room in 68, gas-heated, owner-occupied, semi-detached homes, English Midlands were monitored for a year before fitted 37 homes prior second monitoring. other retained existing so provided matched (control) group. Surveys questionnaires characterised dwellings, households. In two thirds with annual gas demand decreased, one third it increased. Overall, mean decreased by 3.5% relative that their controls. Savings achieved primarily reducing bedroom temperatures, especially evenings. Wireless, digital unlikely provide an acceptable payback through reductions bills today’s prices, but they offer households flexibility react time-of-use pricing. A group essential reliable calculation changes arising from interventions occupied homes.