What is a plinth heater?
A plinth or kickspace heater is a type of fan-assisted radiator which is most commonly fitted underneath cupboards in kitchens, where free wall space is often at a premium. It works by having hot water flow through the radiator part whenever the boiler is running, and then when heat is required an electric fan blows the heat out from under the cupboard.
Two ways of controlling a plinth heater
There are two parts of a plinth heater that can be controlled:
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The flow of hot water: fit a zone valve in the pipework that feeds the plinth heater, and control the zone valve with an Electric Switch.
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The power to the unit (which runs the fan): wire an Electric Switch or Electric Relay (PH-ERS-A) into the power feed for the plinth heater. Hot water runs through the unit all the time, and the Genius Hub controls when the fan is powered. This is often the cheapest option, but how well it works depends on how much heat comes out of the unit when the fan is not running.
On their own, either option gives on/off control. By adding a Room Sensor (PH-WRS-B) or Wireless Room Thermostat (HI-WRT-D) to the zone with either option, the Genius Hub can measure the temperature in the room and control to a set temperature, not just switch the heater on and off.