Thermostat question, recommendation...

[JTB]

I currently have a LUX ELV4 stat controlling my SIS 75KBtu radiant heater. All works well but burning through the propane too fast. The ELV4 has a 5/2 program scheme but the minimum temperature is 45F so the barn is maintained at this temperature all the time. I want to try and set a sequence where I cool the barn overnight and through the day say to 35F then bring up to 45 a few hours before I want to start working.
Doeas any one have a suitable stat in mind?

Cheers, John

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... Never seen a heatin' t-stat that goes below 45°,....

 

[nehog]

Most Honeywell units have a 40 minimum temp. Mine does, but if the temp drops below 32 it will completely shut down.

 

[JTB]

I have found a few that go down to 40F, so may be that is the limit?

Thanks.

 

[notallthere]

I have heard of lower ones but they are hard to find. Most residential ones will only go to 40-45 because that is slightly above where water may start to freeze in the pipes.

 

[JTB]

Sounds like a good reason, may be I can re-calibrate my stat.....I have an electronics background so may be that is the only way to go, custom stat!!

 

[JTB]

Found one, I think. Stelpro STE402NP, 3F to 86F should do the trick. Night setting also so can reduce setting overnight.

 

[LS6 Tommy]

That is not a true programmable stat. You will need to manually put it into "Night Mode" every night, have an 8 hour setback every day or just leave it at a low setting all the time and turn it up when you go into the barn. If turning it up just when you're there Is all you need you're good to go. If you plan on using the area daily you could always get a secondary commercial stat and a time clock, wired in parallel to your existing stat, that will allow you to turn the main stat "Off", but still maintain a low temp of around 35 when you're not there. If you have any potenetial for freeze damage in the barn I wouldn't recommend it.

Tommy

 

[JTB]

Tommy, reading the info below it looks like you can setup an automatic 24 hr sequence that would not need manual input?

Single programming mode
The Single programming mode, which is associated with the Night mode timer, allows alternating between the Day/Night modes and the two corresponding set points over a 24-hour period. Once activated, this mode allows an automatic return to the Night mode after 24 hours. The Single programming mode allows you to define two periods in a single day with different set points.
For example, if the Single programming mode is activated and the Night mode timer is set at 8 hours, the thermostat will be operating in the Night mode for 8 hours at the night temperature set point. Then, it will return to the Day mode for 16 hours operating at the day temperature set point. At the end of the 24-hour cycle, the thermostat will return to the Night mode, and the cycle will start over. The 24-hour cycle starts with the Night mode as soon as the Single programming mode is activated. The Single programming mode activation should be made when you want to return to the Night mode. The normal course of a cycle in the Single programming mode is as follows:
1- Night mode: activated for the duration of the Night mode timer cycle. It returns to the Day mode when the timer cycle is completed.
2- Day mode: activated for the remaining time of the 24-hour cycle. It returns to the Night mode at the end of the 24-hour cycle.

 

[LS6 Tommy]

That's correct. It will automatically run "occupied" (Day mode) for 16 hrs a day and "unoccupied" (Night mode) for 8 hours. Are you planning on being out there 16 hrs a day? if so, you're all set.

Tommy

 

[jvitez]

I can't help you with the thermostat question, but I wonder how much you'll save and if it's worth it in the long run?

Michigan does get cold, but even if it's 0°F outside your ΔT is only 45°, so dropping it to 35° will save something but may not be as much as you think. And besides, the floor and your tools will be at 35°F when you start working.

If you do get your plan to work, please post back and lets us know how much you really did save. I'm sure lots of other gents here would find that information very useful.

 

[JTB]

ill do, just ordered the stat but got a slightly better programmable unit. Should be here next week.
Cheers.