Having a smart thermostat installed is one of the best things you can do to update your home to a house of the future and save some serious cash along the way. There’s a wealth of fab looking and, not to mention, extremely practical thermostats on the market today, each with their own slightly different feature set.
This guide is a basic intro to what these gadgets do and how they can make your life easier.
What are the best smart thermostats in the UK?
There’s some main players in the smart thermostat world, as well as some lesser known brands offering cheaper models. This next section will cover the major and best reviewed products in this space and give you to what each one does. The major brands you’ll encounter when shopping for your new thermostat are:
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: User-friendly DIY setup
- Wireless: Wi-Fi connectivity
- App: Intuitive smartphone application
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: About 30 minutes with guided instructions
- Wireless: Wi-Fi connectivity
- App: Control from Android or iOS device
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: Simple DIY setup
- Wireless: Wi-Fi connectivity
- App: Hive smartphone app compatible
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: DIY friendly with step-by-step app guidance
- Wireless: Yes, offers remote and geofencing features
- App: Intuitive tado° app for complete control
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: User-friendly, DIY-friendly
- Wireless: Yes, includes Wi-Fi connectivity
- App: Hive App compatible with iOS and Android
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: User-friendly
- Wireless: Battery powered
- App: Hive app
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: User-friendly process
- Wireless: Yes
- App: Honeywell Home app
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: User-friendly with a step-by-step app guide
- Wireless: Internet Bridge included for connectivity
- App: Intuitive tado° app for smart control
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: User-friendly
- Wireless: Yes
- App: Hive application
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: Easy DIY installation
- Wireless: Yes
- App: Intuitive tado° app for full control
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: User-friendly
- Wireless: Wi-Fi enabled
- App: Warmup MyHeating App
- Works with Alexa: Yes
- Ease of installation: DIY setup with simple instructions
- Wireless: Yes, Wi-Fi connectivity
- App: Intuitive app for full control and energy insights
Tado° Wired Smart Thermostat Starter Kit V3+ The Smart Thermostat Gives You Full Control Over Your Heating from Anywhere & Wired Smart Thermostat
Streamlined, efficient smart thermostat offering remote heating control, energy savings, and simple installation—ideal for the eco-conscious homeowner.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
- Easy installation: User-friendly app guides for a seamless setup.
- Remote control: Manage your heating from any location worldwide.
- Intuitive app: Clear instructions for hassle-free installation verification.
- Sleek design: Modern aesthetic that enhances home decor.
- Integration with voice assistants: Compatible with Alexa for convenient control.
- Subscription limitations: Advanced features may incur additional costs.
- Initial apprehension: Installation simplicity may not be immediately apparent to users.
- Observation period: Requires initial user engagement to fine-tune settings.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Sturdy, reliable, and energy-conscious, the ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat is ideal for tech-savvy homeowners seeking to reduce their heating and cooling expenses.
Check Latest PriceOne of the standout features of the Smart Thermostat is its compatibility with various smart home platforms, including Home Assistant and Samsung SmartThings. This allows for a seamless and integrated experience for users who have already invested in smart home technology.
The Smart Thermostat also offers customizable schedules and settings for energy efficiency, empowering users to make informed decisions about their energy usage. The advanced sensors for occupancy and temperature adjustments further contribute to its energy-saving capabilities.
What we liked:
Easy installation with additional power extension kit
Intuitive and accurate on-screen keyboard for easy input
Included two room sensors for temperature leveling
Seamless integration with Home Assistant and Samsung SmartThings
Customizable schedules and settings for energy efficiency
What we didn't like:
Not UK or European certified, requires additional installation for UK systems
Living room takes longer to cool than a bedroom
Lite model lacks a motion sensor without additional sensors
Auto-wake display cannot be modified or turned off
Limited color options, only available in black
How does it compare to similar Smart Thermostats?
The Ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat stands out for its seamless integration with various smart home platforms and advanced sensors for energy efficiency. However, it lacks UK certification and has limited color options.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat offers easy installation, intuitive interface, and seamless integration with smart home platforms. It excels in energy efficiency and customization options, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a modern and efficient temperature control solution.
- Easy installation: Comes with a Power Extender Kit for homes without a C-wire.
- Intuitive interface: On-screen keyboard and customizable schedules enhance user experience.
- Smart home integration: Compatible with various platforms like Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and more.
- Room sensors: Included sensors help balance temperature and occupancy detection.
- Energy savings: Offers reports to make informed decisions about energy usage.
- UK certification: Additional steps required for compatibility with UK systems.
- Heating efficiency: Discrepancies in heating times between larger and smaller rooms.
Hive Thermostat
Sturdy, reliable, and efficient, the Hive Smart Thermostat is perfect for homeowners seeking cost-effective temperature management with smart device integration.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
What we liked:
The Smart Thermostat from Hive offers an intuitive and simple setup process, making it easy for users to get started. Both the controller and smartphone app provide an effortless and efficient way to control heating and hot water, ensuring a comfortable home environment. The DIY installation is straightforward, taking only a few minutes to set up. Additionally, the thermostat seamlessly integrates with other devices, including Alexa and other Hive products, enhancing its usability. The convenient remote control feature allows for easy management of heating and hot water from a smartphone, providing added flexibility and convenience. Moreover, the thermostat helps in managing heating bills and energy use efficiently, contributing to cost-effective energy management.
What we didn't like:
However, there are challenges with professional installation services, as they may not always be reliable, causing inconvenience for customers. The product also lacks comprehensive wiring information, requiring additional online research for DIY installation. Furthermore, the absence of a web interface for thermostat control and data viewing is a drawback. Users may also face issues with purchased warehouse deals, including challenges with previous registrations and connectivity, impacting the overall user experience. Additionally, the subscription fee for accessing usage data from British Gas is considered unnecessary and inconvenient by some users.
How does it compare to similar Smart Thermostats?
Compared to other smart thermostats, the Hive Smart Thermostat stands out with its intuitive setup, seamless integration with other devices, and cost-effective energy management capabilities. However, users should consider the challenges with professional installation, lack of comprehensive wiring information, and the subscription fees for data access when making a purchase decision.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Hive Smart Thermostat offers an intuitive and simple setup, effortless control of heating and hot water, and seamless integration with other devices. However, challenges with professional installation, lack of wiring information, and subscription fees for data access may impact user experience. Overall, it is a suitable choice for individuals looking for a smart thermostat with versatile usage and cost-effective energy management capabilities.
- Intuitive Setup: Users praise its straightforward installation and user-friendly smartphone app.
- Effortless Control: Efficiently manages heating and hot water with minimal user intervention.
- DIY Friendly: Simple enough for DIY enthusiasts to install in minutes.
- Seamless Integration: Connects flawlessly with Alexa and other Hive devices.
- Remote Management: Allows for convenient heating and hot water control from anywhere via smartphone.
- Limited Wiring Info: Those installing themselves may need to seek additional wiring information online.
- Installation Service: Professional installation might not always meet expectations, causing frustration.
- Web Interface Absence: No web interface for control or data analysis is a notable downside.
Tado° Wireless Smart Thermostat
Streamlined, efficient, and intelligent, tado° Smart Thermostats are perfect for eco-conscious homeowners seeking to optimise home heating and reduce energy bills.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
What we liked:
The tado° Smart Thermostat impresses with its efficient energy management, smart scheduling, and intuitive interface. Its compatibility with smart home systems and ability to provide detailed energy usage reports are highly commendable.
The geofencing feature and remote access add convenience and peace of mind, while the thermostat's adaptive learning and sleek design enhance its appeal as a modern home automation solution.
What we didn't like:
Despite its impressive features, the tado° Smart Thermostat faces limitations in compatibility with older HVAC systems and a complex installation process, which may pose challenges for some users. Additionally, reliance on Wi-Fi and the initial price point could impact the overall user experience.
How does it compare to similar smart thermostats?
Compared to similar smart thermostats, the tado° Smart Thermostat stands out with its comprehensive energy management features, seamless integration with smart home systems, and intuitive interface. However, challenges with installation and compatibility may be areas of concern for potential users.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The tado° Smart Thermostat offers efficient energy management, smart scheduling, and seamless integration with smart home systems. However, potential challenges with compatibility and installation, reliance on Wi-Fi, and the price point should be considered. Overall, it is a suitable choice for users seeking advanced energy management and home automation capabilities.
- Efficient energy management: Users can optimise energy usage, reducing costs effectively.
- Smart scheduling: Personalised comfort through convenient scheduling options.
- Intuitive interface: User-friendly control and monitoring of settings.
- Compatibility with smart home systems: Integrates seamlessly for enhanced home automation.
- Energy usage reports: Detailed reports for better management and understanding of energy consumption.
- Limited compatibility: Some older HVAC systems may face compatibility issues.
- Complex installation: Installation process may be challenging for non-technical users.
- Wi-Fi dependency: Functionality can be disrupted if Wi-Fi connection is lost.
Hive Thermostat
Robust, energy-efficient with intuitive Hive app support, ideal for homeowners seeking smart, cost-effective heating solutions.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
What we liked:
This smart thermostat for Heating boasts easy installation, allowing for compatibility with various boilers and great app functionality. The remote temperature control via the smartphone app and seamless integration with smart home systems, such as Alexa, provides added convenience and efficiency. The DIY installation and user-friendly setup further enhance its appeal.
What we didn't like:
Some users may encounter challenges with the initial installation process, requiring professional assistance or advanced DIY skills. Additionally, connectivity issues during setup and mixed experiences with customer service may pose minor hurdles for some users.
How does it compare to similar smart thermostats?
Compared to similar smart thermostats, the thermostat for Heating stands out with its impressive customer service, seamless integration with smart home systems, and overall functionality. While some challenges may arise during installation, its cost-saving capabilities and user-friendly interface make it a compelling choice.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Hive Thermostat for Heating offers easy installation, remote control features, and seamless integration with smart home systems, making it an ideal choice for those seeking enhanced heating management. Despite minor installation and connectivity challenges, its overall functionality and impressive customer service make it a compelling investment for smart home enthusiasts.
- Easy installation: DIY-friendly with a clear installation guide.
- Remote control: Manage heating from anywhere via the Hive app.
- User-friendly: Straightforward setup and large LED display for ease of use.
- Smart home integration: Works with Alexa for voice-controlled convenience.
- Energy-saving features: Including heating schedules and automatic frost protection.
- Connectivity issues: Some users report difficulties with internet setup.
- Customer service: Varied experiences with support, although Hive's service is notably commendable.
Hive Thermostat
Efficient, user-friendly Hive Thermostat enhances home comfort and energy savings, ideal for combi boiler users.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
What we liked:
The Hive smart thermostat offers easy usability, remote control, and clear display, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort. It integrates seamlessly with the Hive app, providing additional control and features for users.
What we didn't like:
However, users may encounter challenges with installation, technical requirements, and app issues. Some users experienced difficulties in setting up the thermostat, especially with app connectivity. Additionally, connecting the thermostat to the boiler may require the assistance of an experienced technician.
How does it compare to similar products?
Compared to other smart thermostats, the Hive smart thermostat offers a user-friendly interface and seamless app integration, but users may face challenges with installation and technical requirements.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Hive smart thermostat is suitable for those looking for easy-to-use temperature control, energy efficiency, and integration with the Hive app. However, users should be prepared for potential installation challenges and technical requirements.
- User-friendly interface: Intuitive controls make temperature management effortless.
- Remote accessibility: Control heating and hot water from anywhere via the Hive app.
- Clear visibility: The display is lucid and easy to interpret for users.
- Simple installation: Quick setup process reduces hassle and saves time.
- Energy savings: Enhanced control over heating to potentially lower gas bills.
- Installation complexity: Some users face difficulties, particularly with app connectivity.
- Technical knowledge requirement: May need a technician to connect the thermostat to the boiler.
- App reliability: Occasional app-related issues can hinder user experience.
Honeywell T6R Wireless Smart Thermostat
Sturdy, reliable, and user-friendly, the Honeywell Home T6R Smart Thermostat is ideal for tech-savvy homeowners seeking automated temperature control and energy efficiency.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
- Remote control: Adjust your heating from anywhere using the app.
- Smart home integration: Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home.
- Multiple control options: Touchscreen thermostat or Lyric App for tailored usage.
- Precise temperature regulation: Stable temperatures and energy-efficient features like OpenTherm compatibility.
- User-friendly: Easy setup with an attractive design and responsive screen.
- App functionality: Honeywell Home app has reported connectivity issues.
- Initial setup: Some challenges with app compatibility and geofencing reliability.
Tado° Wired Smart Thermostat Starter Kit V3+ Gives You Full Control Over Your Heating From Anywhere
Sturdy, reliable, and energy-efficient, tado° Smart Thermostat is perfect for those seeking to reduce heating bills and control their home temperature remotely.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
The tado° Wired Smart Thermostat boasts a simple setup process, a user-friendly app, and seamless integration with HomeKit. Its full control over heating and extensive range of options provide an unparalleled level of customization, ensuring optimal comfort and energy efficiency for users.
What we didn't like:
However, the high cost of the thermostat may deter some potential buyers, especially considering its occasional connectivity issues and bright white LEDs, which can be disruptive. Additionally, the thermostat's design flaws, such as slow response and misreading temperatures, may pose usability challenges.
How does it compare to similar smart thermostats?
Compared to other smart thermostats, the tado° Wired Smart Thermostat stands out for its advanced features like Open Window Detection, Smart Schedules, and Multi-Room Control. However, its higher price point and occasional connectivity issues may make some users consider alternative options.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The tado° Wired Smart Thermostat offers exceptional control and energy-saving capabilities, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a high-tech heating solution. However, potential buyers should consider its higher cost and occasional connectivity issues before making a purchase decision.
- Energy savings: Users can enjoy reduced heating costs with smart schedules and energy insights.
- Quality: German engineering assures reliability and superior performance.
- Smart features: Open Window Detection and Multi-Room Control add to user convenience.
- Compatibility: Works with various boilers and hydronic underfloor heating systems.
- App: The tado° app offers comprehensive control and easy setup, enhancing user experience.
- Cost: The initial high cost may not be affordable for all budgets.
- Connectivity issues: Some users may experience difficulties with Wi-Fi mesh networks, leading to disconnections.
- Design flaws: A lack of a manual dial and slow response in temperature reading can frustrate users.
Hive Active Heating Thermostat Without Professional Installation
Sturdy, reliable, and energy-efficient, ideal for homeowners seeking smart heating control with Alexa compatibility and stylish aesthetics.
Check Latest Price- Easy installation: The Hive Smart Thermostat is user-friendly and straightforward to install.
- Remote control: Allows heating adjustments from anywhere using a smartphone.
- Energy efficiency: Features like heating schedules and frost protection contribute to energy savings.
- Smart integration: Compatible with IFTTT and Alexa, enhancing home automation.
- Wireless design: Offers flexibility in placement without the need for a nearby power socket.
- Hub setup complexity: Some users may find connecting the hub to the app/account challenging.
- Limited boiler compatibility: Not all boiler models are compatible, which may necessitate additional professional assistance.
Tado° Wired Smart Thermostat Starter Kit V3+ – Intelligent Heating Control
Sturdy, reliable, and smart energy-efficient heating control, perfect for users seeking both convenience and cost savings.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
What we liked:
The Tado Smart Thermostat presents a seamless installation process, empowering users to take charge of the setup without the need for professional assistance. Its stable WiFi connectivity ensures reliable performance, while precise temperature control guarantees a comfortable environment.
We found the provision of detailed temperature and humidity data to be particularly beneficial, as it equips users with valuable insights for optimizing their indoor climate. The inclusion of geofencing and open window detection features further enhances energy efficiency, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable home solutions.
Moreover, the system's capability for individual room control and scheduling offers unparalleled flexibility, enabling tailored climate settings throughout the home. The intuitive mobile app serves as a user-friendly interface, guiding users through installation and providing convenient control over the system.
Notably, the smart thermostat's compatibility with various heating systems and radiator valves adds a layer of versatility, catering to diverse household setups. Users have reported substantial energy savings and improved efficiency, reflecting the system's effectiveness in optimizing energy consumption.
What we didn't like:
Despite its impressive features, some users have encountered connectivity issues between the bridge and thermostat, impacting the overall functionality. Additionally, controlling rooms with multiple radiators proved to be a challenge, affecting temperature regulation in those spaces.
Furthermore, certain advanced features such as geofencing and open window detection require a subscription, potentially adding ongoing costs for users. The setup process for multi-zone configurations was found to be complex, often necessitating additional support from the company.
Reports of inconsistent open window detection also surfaced, indicating room for improvement in this aspect of the system's performance.
How does it compare to similar Smart Thermostats?
Compared to other smart thermostats, the Tado system stands out for its comprehensive range of features, particularly its emphasis on individual room control and energy-saving capabilities. While it faces challenges in certain areas, its intuitive interface and compatibility with various heating systems set it apart from competitors.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Tado Smart Thermostat offers an array of benefits such as easy installation, individual room control, and energy savings. However, potential connectivity issues and complexities in multi-zone setups should be considered. Overall, it caters to those seeking a customizable and efficient climate control solution.
- Easy installation: DIY-friendly, avoiding extra professional installation costs.
- Stable WiFi connection: Reliable temperature control without frequent disconnections.
- Energy efficiency: Features like geofencing and open window detection save energy.
- Individual room control: Offers customised heating schedules for each room.
- User-friendly app: The intuitive app makes system management a breeze.
- Connectivity issues: Some may experience bridge and thermostat disconnections.
- Limited multi-radiator control: Challenges in regulating temperature in rooms with multiple radiators.
- Subscription for features: Advanced functions like geofencing require ongoing payments.
Warmup 6ie Underfloor Heating Smart Thermostat in Onyx Black (6IE-01-OB)
Efficient and stylish, the Warmup Smart Thermostat offers intuitive functionality and SmartGeo technology, perfect for modernising underfloor heating systems.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
The Smart Thermostat offers a range of impressive features that cater to modern heating and cooling needs. Users particularly appreciate its energy-saving capabilities, effectively reducing energy consumption without compromising comfort. The easy installation process makes it accessible to all, ensuring a user-friendly experience for homeowners. Additionally, the device's sleek and modern design seamlessly integrates into any interior, complementing the aesthetics of the space.
What we didn't like:
While the Smart Thermostat boasts numerous advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users have reported limited compatibility with older HVAC systems, potentially posing an issue for certain installations. Additionally, connectivity problems, occasional glitches, and the initial investment cost have been noted as areas for improvement.
How does it compare to similar smart thermostats?
Compared to other smart thermostats, the Smart Thermostat stands out with its energy-saving features, user-friendly app, and customizable settings. However, potential buyers should be aware of the compatibility concerns and occasional connectivity issues that have been reported by some users.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Smart Thermostat offers advanced control, energy-saving features, and valuable insights into energy usage and patterns. It suits homeowners looking for a modern and convenient heating and cooling solution. However, potential buyers should consider the compatibility issues and initial investment cost before making a purchase decision.
- Energy-saving: Significantly reduces energy consumption for users.
- Easy installation: Straightforward process making it accessible.
- Smart features: Advanced, convenient control for users.
- Sleek design: Modern look that enhances interior aesthetics.
- Remote access: Control the thermostat from anywhere.
- Limited compatibility: May not work with older HVAC systems.
- Pricey: Higher initial cost than traditional thermostats.
- Connectivity issues: Some reports of Wi-Fi and smart home connection problems.
Drayton Wiser Smart Thermostat Heating and Hot Water Control Kit
Sturdy, intuitive and cost-effective, the Drayton Wiser Smart Thermostat is perfect for users seeking effortless heating control and potential energy savings.
Prices checked: 25th September, 00:14:47
- Easy installation: The Heat HubR can be easily fitted on a standard wallplate.
- User-friendly system: Simple instructions and DIY setup without professional help.
- Energy savings: Features such as Away Mode and Eco Mode help save up to £575 annually.
- Expandable control: Ability to add up to 62 radiator thermostats for room-by-room management.
- Smart learning: Adjusts heating schedules based on user habits for enhanced comfort.
- Inconsistent smart radiator: Temperatures recorded by the thermostat can be erratic.
- Connectivity issues: The app may be slow to connect, affecting the user experience.
Guide to UK Smart Thermostats
Keeping warm the smart way
Smart thermostats are a small WiFi enabled devices that you add into your home heating system that then control both the room and hot water temperature in your home.
Depending on the type you get, they can do all kinds of clever things to help make life easier and save you money. They’re a much more advanced form of heating control than the traditional timers, which don’t take into consideration if anyone is home or using the heating.
Some interesting tasks you can get a smart thermo to do are:
- Turn off the heating when you’re not home
- … or turn it on for when you get home
- Change the temperature in each room
- Let you control the temperature from anywhere in the world
- Get fine control over household heating with an app on phone or tablet
- Interact with Alexa or other smart speakers
- Save money!
How can a smart heating controller save you money?
So one of the most hyped features about a smart thermostat is that it can save you money. One of the most common statistics is that you could save 25% on your energy bill. That’s pretty impressive! But there are of course other things that come into play. Things like the weather, where you live and how well insulated your home is will impact how much you can save.
But whatever your circumstance, it’s likely that you’ll be able to save a least a decent amount from your energy bill using a UK smart thermostat. They can do this in a number of ways. The best smart thermostats in the UK will save money on your bill by some or all of these:
- Using smart programming to fire the boiler the minimum needed
- Detecting when you’re not home and never heating an empty home
- Learning your usage patterns to use less energy
- Only hearing rooms you are using
- Better and easier to use scheduling
The average amount a UK household could save using a smart thermostat is 19% which could be over £100 per year.
How much does a smart thermostat cost in the UK?
Although the Nest smart heating system is usually credited as being the pioneer in the field, there are now plenty of good products in this space all competing for your money. While there’s some really cheap models on the market, starting at around the £40 mark, they often don’t do much other than let you control your heating with an app. For the real deal, and a proper smart thermostat, you’ll be looking at around the £150 mark. This guide covers the main players later on to help you get the best smart thermostat for UK users.
How do smart thermostats actually work?
In order to get your home heating and water working with a smart thermostat and get some sweet money saving benefits, you’ll need to buy and install the main device, and possibly some extra parts to fit on your radiators, if you’re planning to go the whole hog. You don’t specifically need these extras unless you want to control the temperature of each room individually.
TIP: Look for a ‘kit’ for whichever brand you settle on. You might get a bargain with some of the radiator attachments included.
Can you install a smart thermostat yourself?
Fitting a smart thermometer is something you’ll probably want to get a professional to do. Local plumbers should be able to handle the task, although it’s recommended that you pick your own smart thermostat that’s right for you and not be swayed by their preferences. It is possible to fit yourself if you’re pretty competent at DIY. For the rest of us, it will involve a call to a tradesman.
TIP: Some products offer installation of their device at an additional cost. But it’s worth deciding if you can get it installed cheaper using a local plumber. The costs are often quite a bit higher.
Thanks for reading
Thanks for reading our best smart thermostat UK guide for 2024. Which product do you plan to install in your smart home? Let us know below.