When it comes to choosing the right temperature control product, some may recommend you to use a temperature controller, while others may suggest a thermostat.
So, what exactly are these two products? What are the key differences between them?
This article will explain and teach how to choose between them, so let’s take a deep dive!
What is a temperature controller?
When you search for “temperature controller” on Google Images, all the results show temperature controllers used for industrial control.
In fact, there are many types of temperature controllers, not only limited to industrial temperature control products, but also include PID temperature controllers, proportional temperature controllers, on/off temperature controllers and so on. You can read this article for more information: Temperature Controller Types: A Comprehensive Guide.
The temperature controller is like a comparator, which constantly compares the set temperature with the current temperature of the object. Once an error is found between the two values, it controls the output of the actuator so that the current temperature of the object eventually reaches the set temperature and maintains that temperature.
What is a thermostat?
When you search the keyword “thermostat” on Google, you will find that all thermostats are designed for home, hotel or office use.
In other words, a thermostat is also a temperature controller, but it is mainly used for home or office temperature control. It relies on a simple on-off control mechanism, usually using a mercury switch or an electronic sensor.
Thermostats are mainly used in residential and commercial HVAC systems to adjust the indoor temperature.
Key differences between temperature controller and thermostat
The main differences between temperature controllers and thermostats are in 5 aspects: their relationship, control mechanism, control accuracy, application scenarios and product cost. The following table will provide more details.
| Aspect | Temperature controller | Thermostat |
|---|---|---|
|
Relationship |
Temperature controller product range is wide, it includes a thermostat. |
Thermostat is one of all types of temperature controllers. |
|
Control mechanism |
The temperature controller control mechanism can be PID control, proportional control, on/off control. |
Simple on/off control |
|
Control accuracy |
The PID control type temperature controller has a very high accuracy of ±0.1°C. The accuracy of the thermostat is shown in the next column. |
The control accuracy of the thermostat is not as high as the pid temperature controller, its control accuracy is about ±3℃. |
|
Application |
Plastic and glass manufacturing, ovens, furnaces, also thermostat applications. |
Residential and office HVAC systems, refrigeration and freezing systems, etc. |
|
Product cost |
The PID temperature controller price is higher than the thermostat, because of its high accuracy and designed for industrial control processes. |
Generally the thermostat price is cheaper because of its simple control method. |
How to choose between a temperature controller and a thermostat?
If your needs are just basic heating and cooling and you can tolerate some small temperature differences, then a thermostat is the best choice.
However, for industrial processes, scientific experiments, or other scenarios where temperature changes have a significant impact and require precise temperature control, a PID temperature controller is a better choice.
For example, in a home environment, a thermostat can meet daily heating and cooling needs. In a pharmaceutical production workshop, a temperature controller with precise temperature control is needed to ensure the quality and efficacy of pharmaceutical production.
Conclusion
Simply put, a temperature controller includes a thermostat, and a thermostat, as a type of temperature controller, is mainly used in homes. However, the application range of a temperature controller is relatively wide. It can be used not only in homes, but also in industrial automation production lines.
At Lorentzzi you can find all the temperature controllers suitable for industrial production. If you have problems finding the right temperature, you can contact us by sending an email to shonxu@lorentzzi.com!
