I bought this to update a 20yo Sunvic SP100 which was still in good working order. The Salus brings a slightly sleeker more modern appearance and adds a backlight, built-in battery backup, auto BST time change and larger buttons. At the prices available its great value over premium brands at least one of which is getting worrying reliability reviews for its two channel programmer.
All good so far but the backlight is disappointingly dim and there are a few other disappointments. The user interface lacks day copy which makes programming time consuming. I dislike that the boost function doesn't have single press cancel, instead requiring the boost to be boosted past 9 hours, i.e. up to 9 presses. Worse, boost in progress locks out the mode change button, a design fail I have not seen in premium brands. I am baffled by the flap design preventing it opening 180deg to easily read the setting instructions. Actually there is a reason but I still consider it a design fail.
One further issue, though not a criticism, the backplate mount is towards the RHS looking from the front. If replacing a programmer with the backplate mount towards the LHS make sure you have room between adjacent wall mounted switches.
Once programmed this is an easy to operate programmer.
Nice simple and easy to operate product, particularly like the backlight feature so it's easy to see in the dark, and the boost function, which you can turn on the heating or hot water for up to an additional 9 hours. Programming can seem complex but if you read the instructions properly it's actually very easy. Overall nice and simple and great for the price.
Uses same design as remote thermostat - good build and layout. But, just like the RT500F thermostat, programming is very awkward (especially for elderly) and handbook text far too small. When programming it reverts to operation mode far too quickly to allow for reading the instructions. 'Default' factory settings (3 on periods daily) not really most suitable for U.K./most people. Handy operating indicator (lights up). Once setup it appears reliable.
Salus EP200 Digital Thermostat 2 Channel C.H. Programmer
I did some research and found this to be a good value and quite sophisticated controller. It replaced a duff Honeywell ST9400C which was around 3 times the price and had packed up completely after less than 6 years. The Salus EP200 is not quite as easy to program but was straightforward enough. It gives 3 on/off times for both C/H & H/W which can be timed independently. It looks good, was easy to install & setup and it works well. Time will tell if the quality is there.