What is the Bridge Pro?
The Bridge Pro is a dedicated network hub with the most advanced staged heating control capabilities on the market.
Use of the Bridge Pro offers seamless integration with the Flair app and hvacOS™ platform for full staged heating control, rapid installation without C-Wire pulls, and support for up to seven boiler and/or electric baseboard heating zones.
What is Staged Heating?
Staged Heating, sometimes referred to as 'Integrated Controls' is a heating control strategy that uses multiple heating sources to optimize comfort and energy efficiency.
The first stage typically relies on a ductless heat pump (DHP) or mini split, which provides efficient heating under mild conditions.
When additional heating is needed—such as in colder temperatures—the second stage, typically a boiler or electric baseboard heater, is activated to supplement the heat.
How does the Flair Platform and Bridge Pro Work for Staged Heating?
- The Flair Puck Pro (sold separately) controls the first-stage heating (DHPs) using Infrared (IR) communication.
- For Solution 1 (recommended), the Flair Bridge Pro directly manages the second-stage heating providing seamless, full first-party staged heating.
- For Solution 2, the Bridge Pro serves as a network communication hub, while the existing thermostat manages second stage heating.
Who is the Bridge Pro for?
- HVAC Contractors: Professionals responsible for installing and maintaining heating systems.
- System Integrators: Those configuring multi-stage heating solutions with Flair products.
What You Need
Flair offers two Staged Heating solutions, providing flexible options tailored to your customers HVAC setup, equipment and preferences.
Powered by hvacOS™, Flair automates heat staging based on temperature, weather, and user settings, ensuring optimal comfort and energy efficiency while saving on installation time and cost.
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Solution 1 | Flair First-Party (Recommended)
The Flair Puck Pro manages first-stage heating (DHPs), and the Bridge Pro controls second-stage heating (boilers or baseboards).
Ideal for homes without smart thermostats or where a first party solution is the best option. It enables quick installation without C-Wire pulls or the need to integrate multiple software platforms.
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Solution 2 | Flair Using Existing Thermostat(s)
The Flair Puck Pro manages first-stage heating (DHPs), and existing smart thermostats control second-stage heating (boilers or electric baseboards).
Flair Puck Pro
The Puck Pro controls first-stage heating (DHPs) using Infrared (IR) communication.
1 x Puck Pro is required for every indoor unit.
Bridge Pro
The Bridge Pro controls second-stage heating (boilers or baseboards).
1 x Bridge Pro is required per staged heating system.
Required Components for Solution 1 | Flair First-Party
- Flair Puck Pro – Required for controlling ductless heat pumps (DHPs) - one Puck Pro per indoor unit.
- Flair Bridge Pro - Supports up to seven boiler or electric baseboard sones
- Thermostat Wire, Wire Nuts, etc. (Field Supplied) - For electric baseboard heaters, you’ll also likely need junction boxes, strain relievers, etc.
- Line Level Relay(s) (Field Supplied) – For electric baseboard heater installations. Not needed for boiler systems.
- Flair Bridge (Optional) – Network communication hub. Recommended for homes over 2,500 square feet.
- Internet Connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) – Required for app connectivity and system control.
- Flair App – Available for iOS and Android for system configuration and management.
Required Components for Solution 2 | Flair Using Existing Thermostat(s)
- Flair Puck Pro – Required for controlling ductless heat pumps (DHPs) - one Puck Pro per indoor unit.
- Smart Thermostat – One per boiler zone.
- Flair Bridge – Network communication hub for Puck Pros and connects to Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Internet Connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) – Required for app connectivity and system control.
- Flair App – Available for iOS and Android for system configuration and management.
HVAC System Compatibility
- Ductless Heat Pumps (DHPs or Mini Splits) – Must support infrared (IR) control.
- Second-Stage Heating Systems – Must be either a boiler or electric baseboard heater.
- Smart Thermostats – Nest, ecobee, and Honeywell models are supported for integration. Not needed for Puck Pro with Bridge Pro staged heating system.
Network Requirements
- A stable Internet connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) is required for Flair devices to communicate effectively.
- Ensure that the network does not have strict firewall settings that could block Flair devices.