How to Choose a Smart Heating Thermostat

Is it time to modernise your home? Do you understand the advantages of smart heating? So, this post will serve as your comprehensive guide to selecting a smart heating thermostat.

Smart thermostats are more efficient and may let you control your central heating system using an app. They may self-regulate based on your behaviours and heat preferences, among other smart capabilities, depending on the type you pick.  

With so many options available, deciding on a smart thermostat might be difficult, but they all serve the same fundamental goal of helping you heat and cool your house. 

What is a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats are often connected to the Internet and controlled via an app. A basic one can let you schedule your heating to turn on at a specific time of day, but what if you want to turn it off? If you’ve changed your plans and will be late, you can’t stop it from a distance. However, if you are a creature of habit and spend most of your day at home, a smart thermostat can still help you better manage the temperature in your house.

Geofencing, settings to protect your pipes from freezing, water regulation, regular feedback, and an overview of your heating and cooling routines are all popular features of current regulators. Smart thermostats typically range in price from £150 to £300, depending on the brand and model.

It is also critical to understand how it varies from a smart metre. Smart metres are provided free of charge by the government, gas and electricity providers. They often monitor and provide feedback and use statistics to you and your supplier in order to optimise utility supply.

What is a Programmable Thermostat?

A programmable thermostat has a digital interface as well, but it cannot be linked to the Internet and handled remotely. The newest types let you to programme your preferred temperature and most of them have an automatic schedule. You may reduce your monthly expenses by programming a few starts and shut-offs daily or weekly.  A programmed thermostat is less expensive than a smart thermostat and typically costs between £20 and £100. Whether you pick a smart or programmable thermostat, you need learn how to use it properly or you won’t get as much use out of it.

Features of Smart Heating Thermostats

Although smart thermostats are a step forward in home management, some are superior to others. Some major characteristics to look for in a smart thermostat include:

• Geofencing – Because you will most likely operate your thermostat from your phone or laptop, the app can detect when you are inside your home or have gone for work and change the temperature appropriately.
• Remote Access – Access your smart thermostat’s settings from anywhere and modify them according to your changing schedule.
• Smart Home Integration – The majority of smart thermostats can now be linked to Alexa, Google, or Cortana and controlled using voice commands.
• Motion and Proximity Sensors – With motion and proximity sensors in every section of your house, you may enjoy the warm welcome of your home or turn on the heating in a room you’ve just entered.
• Simple Installation – Many smart thermostats on the market have an easy installation that you can handle yourself. Check to see if your thermostat requires a common wire or a C-wire, and if in question, contact a professional heating specialist for assistance with the installation.
• Zonal Heating – If you live in a bigger home and there are rooms you don’t regularly visit or places that are warmer or colder than others, zonal heating will assist you in achieving the correct temperature in each space.

How Much Money Can You Save With a Smart Heating Thermostat?

Smart thermostat makers typically claim that you will see a return on your investment in their equipment in less than two years.  According to reports, this simple move saves 10-15% on heating and cooling each year, or around £100.