Smart Thermostat or a Standard Programmer
A standard programmer switches the heating on and off to fixed times; a smart thermostat adds remote control, learning and sometimes room sensors.
A standard programmer switches the heating on and off to fixed times; a smart thermostat adds remote control, learning and sometimes room sensors. The upgrade is worthwhile for some households and unnecessary for others.
The case for a standard programmer
A settled routine that rarely changes, and a household that doesn't want to manage an app, is served perfectly well by simple time and temperature controls.
The case for a smart thermostat
Variable schedules, time away from home, or wanting to adjust heating remotely all suit the flexibility a smart thermostat adds.
Which wins when
If your routine genuinely varies week to week, a smart thermostat earns its keep. If it never changes, a well-set standard programmer does the same job with less to go wrong.
Discuss upgrading your heating controls
Tell us your boiler make and how your routine varies and we'll say whether a smart thermostat is worth it for you.
Questions we get asked
Will a smart thermostat work with any boiler?
Compatibility varies by brand and boiler type, so we check this before recommending a specific model.
Does a smart thermostat replace a room thermostat?
It typically performs that function itself, so the two aren't usually fitted alongside each other doing the same job.
Is installation straightforward?
Wiring is usually the same as an existing thermostat, but boiler compatibility and any wireless receiver placement need checking on site.