Prefect Controls has been providing energy management systems to student accommodation providers since 1997.

Its systems keep student’s rooms at a comfortable temperature. The occupant can boost the heat, but after a pre-set time elapses the input returns to the setback level. This means residents cannot turn their thermostat up to maximum, when they arrive in September, and leave it there all year. If windows are opened, heat input is reduced, likewise when rooms are left vacant, the system switches off until there is a risk of damp or damage from frost.

It is all about ensuring energy is only used when necessary.

Energy Managers monitor and control all aspects of the system remotely via the secure, dedicated Irus Portal. From here individual rooms can be adjusted, universal profiles can be rolled out, and unusual environmental conditions, such as high humidity, excessive noise, and poor air quality will sound alerts for maintenance or welfare teams to investigate.

The most recent addition to UWEs Frenchay Campus has been HobSensus, Prefect’s safety device that ‘watches’ the cooking surface of an electric hob. If a kitchen is left unattended while cooking is in progress, and pan temperatures approach dangerous levels, the power to the hob will be cut.

The innovation and excellence of Prefect’s products was recognised in late 2023, when Irus won the Energy Saving Awards – Education Sector Project of the Year category, for the installation at UWE.

Meanwhile Electrical Safety First, the campaigning organisation recognised by government and industry as the leading authority on electrical safety, awarded HobSensus, it’s Safety Innovation Award.

For more information about either of these products please visit: www.prefectcontrols.com