I've finally committed and went for the H&G 33ltr boiler w/o thermostat. I'm still wary about not having a thermostat but figure there are after-market options. I've seen Ranco temp controllers for a reasonable price on e-bay. As I understand it you must install a copper/SS well for the probe filled with thermal conducting compound to withstand the temperatures of a boil. Still, all this can be had for less than £50 for what has to be the most precise control. I'm no expert, seriously. So please correct away!
I also saw a post by Daab on a power regulator which is probably similar to the thermostat included on Bruheat and Electrim boilers. This seems like a very economical project to add some control.
What after market solutions have you guys investigated/implemented?
Boiler Thermostat/power regulators
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steve_flack
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Seveneer
I think the power controller would be better than a Ranco for a boiler.
To maintain a boil you need the liquid to stay at 100C with the power still driving it to boil further (just at a reduced duty cycle). The Ranco is an On-Off controller so I think it'll probably get to 100 then switch off so you'll never get the liquid to boil.
/Phil.
To maintain a boil you need the liquid to stay at 100C with the power still driving it to boil further (just at a reduced duty cycle). The Ranco is an On-Off controller so I think it'll probably get to 100 then switch off so you'll never get the liquid to boil.
/Phil.
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PieOPah
I have a thermostat on my boiler. The only time I really use it is if my sparge water comes up to temp too quickly so I knock it down to maintain the temp. This is a very rare occurance and I am normally sat with a thermometer waiting for it to come up. After that I have it on max setting and it stays like that throughout the boil.
I would say it is a waste of money getting any type of temp control....
I would say it is a waste of money getting any type of temp control....
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Seveneer
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PieOPah
It is graded 1-10 rather than in temp. It was just advertised as a thermostat - still whichever it is it spends most of its time at max 
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beardybrewer
Once again, thanks guys. I feel much better about my decision.
Yeah the Ranco is just an on-off switch. Its capable of going past 100C (I think to 220F so whatever that is in celcius) and you can set the differential (how many degrees must transpire before switching again, the smallest being 1degree). It does seem to be overkill unless you were really keen on mashing in your boiler.
Yeah the Ranco is just an on-off switch. Its capable of going past 100C (I think to 220F so whatever that is in celcius) and you can set the differential (how many degrees must transpire before switching again, the smallest being 1degree). It does seem to be overkill unless you were really keen on mashing in your boiler.
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beardybrewer