Everything You Need to Know About Smart Thermostats

What is a Smart Thermostat and How Does It Work?

A smart thermostat is a device that helps control your home’s heating and hot water on its own and from far away. Unlike regular thermostats, which you have to adjust by hand, smart thermostats connect to your central heating system. This allows you to set heating times and change the temperature easily using a smartphone app, computer, or tablet.

Smart thermostats are not just for turning the heat on or off. They let you set heating schedules that you can easily program. They can also learn your daily habits, which helps them fit your lifestyle better. You will receive details about your energy use. Many smart thermostats can adjust their settings based on the weather, like humidity. This means they help keep your home comfortable and save energy at the same time.

The main reason people enjoy smart thermostats is that you can control them from anywhere. With special apps, you can take charge of your heating system no matter where you are. You might be at work, on holiday, or just out of the house. Smart thermostats also connect easily with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. This means you can control them with your voice and connect them to other smart devices like smart lights and smart radiator valves.

Some smart thermostats, like the tado° Smart Thermostat, can check humidity. They change the heating to help you feel comfy and save energy. They also have a feature called open window detection. This feature saves energy by stopping the heating when it realises a window is open.

Many smart thermostats can show you a lot about your energy usage. This lets you see how much energy you use and look for ways to save. By checking this information, you can change your heating habits and settings. This way, you can lower your energy bills and lessen your impact on the environment.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now

Types of Smart Thermostats Available in the UK

• Many brands lead the UK market.
• Each one has special features.

Nest Learning Thermostat and Nest Thermostat E

Google Nest offers two products: the Nest Learning Thermostat and the Nest Thermostat E. Both products are able to learn from your habits. The Nest Learning Thermostat will change the temperature based on your schedule. It can adjust the heat automatically. The Nest Thermostat E is cheaper and has basic smart features. It is also very easy to set up.

tado° Smart Thermostat

The tado° Smart Thermostat lets you manage your home’s heating by using geofencing and different settings for each room. It adjusts the heating based on your location and what each room requires. This way, you feel comfortable and save energy at the same time.

Hive Active Heating

Hive Active Heating is a simple app made by British Gas. You can use this app to set schedules and adjust temperatures. Hive works well with other Hive products. This makes it easier to create a smart home setup.

Learning Thermostats vs. User-Controlled Thermostats:

Smart thermostats are of two kinds. There are learning thermostats and user-controlled thermostats.

• Learning thermostats, like the Nest Learning Thermostat, use smart tech to learn your habits. They change the temperature by themselves to save energy. This is helpful for people who want things taken care of for them.
• User-controlled thermostats, such as Hive Active Heating, require you to set the schedule and make changes yourself. They give you greater control if you prefer to manage your heating settings alone.

When you choose a smart thermostat, consider several features. Look for remote control and support for voice assistants. Check if it can learn your preferences. Make sure it works well with other smart home devices too. Also, verify that it matches your heating system. It could be a combi boiler, a regular boiler with a hot water tank, or even underfloor heating.

Most smart thermostats can work with UK heating systems. It is important to check if a certain model will fit. This is especially true for complicated systems. These include zonal heating control or systems that need hot water control.

What are the Benefits of Using a Smart Thermostat?

Smart thermostats can help lower energy bills. They work by setting better heating schedules and reducing energy waste. These thermostats learn about your habits or use a tool called geofencing. This means they will heat your home only when it is needed. With one of these, you can save up to 31% on your heating costs.

You can use apps on your smartphone to manage your home temperature from anywhere. This means your home will feel nice when you return. Plus, voice control with smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Nest makes it even simpler.

Smart thermostats provide details about how you heat your home and the amount of energy you use. This information helps you make better choices to save energy. By using this data, you can reduce your heating bills and create a more comfortable atmosphere in your home.

Smart thermostats help reduce carbon footprints by using less heating. This supports better energy use. They are a great option for homeowners who want to have a smaller impact on the environment.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now

How Much Do Smart Thermostats Cost in the UK?

The price of smart thermostats in the UK ranges from £50 to £350. This price can change depending on the brand and features. Basic smart thermostats, like the Nest Thermostat E, cost less. However, more advanced options, such as the Nest Learning Thermostat and the tado° Smart Thermostat, are pricier.

The price of a smart thermostat can change for several reasons. This can include the reputation of the brand. Features like zone control, voice control, and learning options also play a part. Lastly, how well it works with smart home systems is important too.

Think about the additional costs after your purchase. If your heating system is complex, you might need professional installation. You may prefer not to install it by yourself. There could also be extra costs, like smart radiator valves or a smart hub for full functionality.

The initial cost might seem high. However, the savings on energy bills can make it worth it. You also gain added comfort and convenience. This is especially helpful for families that use a lot of heating or want to reduce their carbon footprint.

How to Install and Set Up a Smart Thermostat

Installing a smart thermostat can be simple. It mainly depends on your heating system. Most smart thermostats come with a detailed guide to help you. Some brands even offer professional installation services. Typically, the steps to install it are:

• Turn off the power for your heating system.
• Remove the old thermostat.
• Install the new thermostat base.
• Connect the wires to the correct terminals.
• Fix the thermostat and turn the power back on.
• Set up the device with the smartphone app.

If you feel unsure about doing it by yourself or have a tricky system, hiring a heating engineer may be the best way to ensure it is set up properly and functions well.

Common problems include wrong wiring, issues with compatibility, and trouble connecting to the home Wi-Fi. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions closely. If you need assistance, reach out to support.

Before you buy, make sure the smart thermostat will work with your heating system. Check how it matches with your boiler type, hot water system, and any heating controls.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now

Smart Thermostat Features Explained

• Saves energy
• Easy to use
• Can access it from anywhere
• Learns from your habits
• Works with other smart devices
• Shows detailed usage reports
• Lets you set schedules
• Supports multiple sensors

Geofencing: It adjusts the heating based on your location. This feature can reduce energy usage by up to 24% with tado°.

Voice Control: You can use this feature with smart speakers like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. A survey in 2023 found that 45% of smart thermostat users often manage their heating with voice commands.

• Change the heat based on your schedule and likes.
• Nest claims its smart system can help save energy within just one week of being set up.

You can easily control your smart thermostat using your smartphone app. You can make changes even when you are not close by. A study showed that 92% of people who use a smart thermostat check their app at least once a week to manage their heating.

• Multi-Zone Control allows you to manage heating in different rooms or areas on their own.
• This feature can save energy by up to 20% in homes that have several zones.

A good app for a smart thermostat needs to be simple and easy to use. It should help you see your energy usage and heating schedules clearly. A study in 2022 found that 85% of users felt their smart thermostat app was "easy" or "very easy" to use.

Compatibility with other smart home devices is key for a good smart home experience. Choose thermostats that fit well with your current devices. This could include systems like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit. A recent report found that homes with connected smart systems use about 5-8% less energy than those with separate devices.

Consider devices that receive frequent updates and have reliable support. This keeps your device running smoothly and current with new smart home features. Typically, companies provide software updates for 5 to 7 years after they launch a product.

How Much Can You Save with a Smart Thermostat?

Many users say they save a lot on their heating bills. Some brands claim you can save as much as 31%. A study from the Energy Saving Trust found that UK homes using smart thermostats save about £75 each year on their energy bills.

In a study by British Gas, a family of four in Manchester saved 22% on their heating costs each year. They achieved this by installing a smart thermostat and following its advice for better use. A different study by tado° looked at 100,000 homes in Europe. This study also found that people saved an average of 22% on heating costs.

Energy savings depend on several factors. This includes how well your heating system works, the insulation in your home, and your heating habits. Homes with poor insulation might save more energy. This happens because there is more opportunity to make energy use better.

To maximise savings with your smart thermostat:

• Make sure your heating schedule is set right. A study shows that 60% of energy waste happens when homes are empty or too hot.
• Check your energy usage insights often. People who look at their energy data save 5-7% more than those who don’t.
• Use tools like open window detection and geofencing. These can help you save 7-12% on your energy use.
• Combine your smart thermostat with other energy-saving methods. Better insulation and energy-efficient appliances can increase your savings even more.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now

Smart Thermostat Energy-Saving Tips and Tricks

Optimising your thermostat for each season is key. In winter, the World Health Organisation suggests setting it to 18°C (64°F) for healthy adults. In summer, the Energy Saving Trust recommends at least 26°C (79°F) for cooling. A study from the University of Salford found that turning down your thermostat by just 1°C can reduce your heating bill by up to 10%.

Regularly check the data from your smart thermostat. This can help you notice patterns and make changes that reduce energy use while keeping you comfortable. A survey by Smart Energy GB found that 68% of people with a smart thermostat look at their energy usage data each week. This practice leads to better choices about their heating habits.

To further reduce energy consumption:

• Use zonal heating control if possible. It can reduce your energy use by up to 20%, based on information from the Energy Saving Trust.
• Take advantage of the open window detection feature. tado° says this can help you save up to 5% on heating costs.
• Enable the 'holiday mode' when you leave home. This prevents unnecessary heating and can save you 10-15% on your annual heating bills.
• Combine your smart thermostat with other smart devices. Smart radiator valves and smart plugs make a great smart home setup. A study by Delta-EE found that homes with complete smart energy systems can save up to 49% more energy than homes with separate smart devices.

Are Smart Thermostats Right for Every UK Home?

Smart thermostats have many benefits, but they are not right for every home. A survey by Which? in 2023 showed that 12% of UK households found their heating systems did not work well with smart thermostats. Homes with simple heating systems, or those that do not want automation, might not benefit much from smart thermostats. People who like manual control may not find these devices very useful.

In some cases, using programmable thermostats or regular ones that you can set by hand might be a better choice. This is especially true for people who have simple heating needs or are on a tight budget. A study by the Energy Saving Trust showed that homes that spend less than £500 on energy every year may need over 5 years to see savings from a smart thermostat.

• Check if your heating system fits your needs.
• Look at the size and type of your heating equipment.
• Make sure your ducts and vents work well with your setup.
• Think about how much energy your system uses.
• Review your insulation and your home design.
• See if you need any upgrades or repairs.
• Think about the type of boiler you have, whether it is combi, system, or conventional.
• Check if you use a single or multi-zone heating system.
• Look at your current energy usage and how much you could save.
• Consider how comfortable you feel with smart home technology.

If you are unsure, ask a heating engineer for help. Many companies have tools on their websites. These tools can help you check if things are compatible.

The smart heating market is expected to grow a lot in the coming years. A report by GlobalData mentions that the UK smart thermostat market will reach £260 million by 2025. This is a rise of 30% every year. Here are some trends and new ideas in smart heating solutions:

• AI heating controls that understand and adjust to your needs.
• A stronger link with renewable energy sources like solar panels and heat pumps.
• More compatibility with various smart home systems for improved energy management.
• Development of learning tools that consider outside information, like weather forecasts and energy prices, to achieve the best efficiency.

As technology keeps changing, smart thermostats are likely to improve. They will become more efficient and simpler to use. This might make them a great choice for more homes in the UK in the future.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now

How to Choose the Best Smart Thermostat Model for Your Home

Understand Your Home's Heating Needs

• The size of the space you want to heat.
• The kind of insulation in the building.
• The number of windows and doors.
• The weather in your area.
• Your heating needs each day.

Larger homes or homes with several floors can gain a lot from using smart thermostats that manage different areas. For instance, the tado° Smart Thermostat allows you to set the temperature for each room separately. This feature can help you save energy by as much as 20% if your home has different zones.

Heating Patterns: Consider how your home typically uses heat. If your daily schedule changes frequently, you may prefer a thermostat that learns over time, like the Nest Learning Thermostat. This device can begin saving energy just one week after you install it by understanding your habits.

Evaluate Desired Features and Usability

• Think about the features that matter to you.
• When you pick a smart thermostat, look for one that has a clear and simple display. Check that the app is user-friendly too. A study in 2022 found that 85% of people said their smart thermostat app was "easy" or "very easy" to use.
• Geofencing: This feature can reduce energy usage by up to 24%, according to tado°. It automatically changes your heating based on your location.
• Energy Monitoring: Choose a model that shows you clear details about your energy usage. People who frequently check their energy data save about 5-7% more than those who do not.

Consider Integration with Other Smart Devices

Make sure the smart thermostat works great with your smart home setup.

If you have a system like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, choose a thermostat that connects with it. A 2023 survey found that 45% of people using smart thermostats frequently use voice commands to control their heating.

Other Smart Devices: You can connect with devices like smart radiator valves or security systems. Homes that use combined smart systems save an extra 5-8% on energy compared to only using single smart devices.

Set a Realistic Budget and Determine Value for Money

Balance cost with the features offered:

High-end models might be more expensive at the start. But, they often lead to better savings on energy costs in the long run. A great example is the Nest Learning Thermostat. This device can help save about 10-12% on your heating bills.

• Extra Costs: Be aware of possible fees for installation or additional items.
• The Energy Saving Trust found that UK homes with smart thermostats save around £75 a year on energy bills.
• This savings can help cover the initial costs in the long run.

Installation Preferences: DIY vs. Professional Installation

• Decide if you want to install the thermostat yourself.
• Or, you can choose to hire a professional.

DIY-Friendly Models: Some thermostats are designed for easy setup. The Nest Thermostat E is an example. A survey by Which? found that 12% of UK homes have heating systems that do not work with smart thermostats. So, it's good to check if your system is compatible before making a purchase.

• A complex system needs the right setup.
• A professional installation can help with this.
• Many companies provide installation services.
• You can add these services to your purchase for a lower price.

Future-Proof Your Purchase

Consider how your choice will hold up over time:

• Choose a model from a popular brand that provides regular updates.
• Companies typically give software updates for 5 to 7 years after the product is released.

If you plan to add more smart home devices in the future, pick a thermostat that connects easily with them. In the UK, the smart heating market will reach £260 million by 2025. This means it is growing at 30% each year. This shows that more people are using smart home systems together.

Read Reviews and Gather Recommendations

• Research carefully before you decide.
• User Feedback: Look at what other users say. A 2022 study by Which? found that 79% of people with a smart thermostat feel happy about it. They reported the biggest benefits are improved comfort and energy savings.
• Get expert advice: Look at expert opinions and comparison guides.
• Find reviews that compare different models. Pay attention to their performance, ease of use, and how much energy they can save in UK conditions.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now