10 Best Thermostats

The tado Smart Thermostat X Starter Kit is a strong choice for those looking to improve heating control and save on energy costs in their home. It is compatible with a range of heating systems including gas boilers (supporting OpenTherm and relay control), heat pumps, and wired underfloor heating, making it versatile for many households. Installation is designed to be DIY-friendly, with clear instructions and all necessary mounting materials included, though some familiarity with wiring might be helpful.

One of the standout features is its smart capabilities. You can control temperatures easily via the smartphone app or voice commands through Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri, which adds great convenience. The thermostat’s display is simple and intuitive, so adjusting settings directly on the device is straightforward. The inclusion of the Bridge X ensures a stable connection using the latest smart home standards like Thread and Matter, helping future-proof your setup.

Energy efficiency is a key focus with this model. The AI Assist technology can reduce heating expenses by up to 55% through smart functions like geofencing (which adjusts heating based on your location), open window detection, and holiday mode. These features provide helpful automation without needing much user input. This thermostat is not compatible with older tado models (V3+ or below), so it’s best suited for new installations or full upgrades. While installation is marketed as easy, some users without any electrical experience may find wiring a bit challenging and might prefer professional help. The tado Smart Thermostat X is ideal for UK homeowners seeking an energy-efficient, smart heating solution that integrates well into modern smart homes and offers both app and voice controls. It combines user-friendly design with advanced features, though some DIY confidence is required during setup.

The Hive Thermostat for Heating is designed specifically for use with combi boilers, making it an ideal choice if you have this type of heating system. Its programmability is robust, allowing users to set up to six daily time slots for heating and hot water. This feature is complemented by the heating and hot water boost, which can provide additional warmth for up to six hours as needed. The smart features are a standout aspect, including geolocation, which gives alerts when you leave or return home, and Holiday Mode, so you can ensure your home is warm upon your return from a trip. A key benefit is the 12-month free Hive Plus plan aimed at enhancing energy savings.

From an energy efficiency perspective, the thermostat includes automatic frost protection to prevent frozen pipes, which can help in maintaining your system. The user interface is streamlined, with control available through a dedicated app or voice commands, making it convenient for users who prefer remote management of their heating system.

Installation appears relatively straightforward as it is designed for self-install, which should appeal to DIY enthusiasts. However, it's important to note the necessity of a combi boiler for compatibility. The inclusion of all necessary components, such as the receiver, hub, and installation guide, supports a smooth setup process.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The thermostat's reliance on connectivity means users must have a stable internet connection for optimal function. Additionally, while it boasts a sleek design in black and chrome, this might not suit all home aesthetics. Despite being ranked high in customer reviews, prospective buyers should ensure that delivery is available to their location, as there are restrictions on shipping outside mainland UK.

The Hive Nano 3 thermostat is designed for controlling heating in homes with combi boilers using OpenTherm technology, which helps communicate precisely with your boiler to save energy and maintain a steady temperature. This can lead to up to 12% lower gas usage, which means potential savings on heating bills and a longer boiler lifespan. It connects via Wi-Fi through the new Nano 3 Hub, which is easy to set up and offers reliable performance without lots of cables. You can program heating and hot water schedules with up to six daily time slots, giving you good flexibility to match your routine.

The thermostat includes smart features like geolocation to adjust heating when you leave or come back home, frost protection to prevent pipe freezing, and a holiday mode so your house is warm when you return from a trip. The user interface is a simple touch screen with button controls and clear graphical display, making it straightforward to use even if you’re not tech-savvy. One nice bonus is the included 50% discount on Hive Plus, a service plan that can help you save more energy.

It is specifically built for combi boilers using OpenTherm, so it might not work with other heating systems. Some users might also find the initial setup of the hub and device slightly involved if they aren’t comfortable with smart home gadgets. For anyone wanting an energy-efficient, programmable, and smart heating solution that’s user-friendly and well-supported, the Hive Nano 3 represents a solid option.