Thermostat FAQs

The three main types of thermostat available are manual thermostats, programmable thermostats, and smart home thermostats.

We certainly think so. Smart thermostats utilise a range of clever features that can save the average household around 8% on heating and cooling bills.

Almost every smart thermostat we sell is compatible with the Amazon Alexa voice assistant. Despite this, always check compatibility with the thermostat manufacturer before buying.

Whilst most smart thermostats work well with Google Assistant, Google Nest thermostats are fully integrated and gain advanced functionality when paired with other Google Assistant devices, such as the Google Nest Hub.

If a thermostat isn’t turning on or the display is dark, try replacing the batteries first. If your thermostat doesn’t use batteries, check for a tripped breaker or a blown fuse in the electrics panel. If you’re still having trouble, consult your thermostat manufacturer or call a professional.

The energy saving trust recommends a thermostat temperature of between 18 and 20 degrees celsius during winter months.

Smart thermostats are not completely dependent on WiFi, and will continue to function even without internet connection.

You will not be able to control the thermostat through your phone or smart hub without WiFi, but you can still change the temperature through the device itself.

Smart thermostats work with almost all smartphones that apps can be installed on. This includes iOS and Android devices. If you cannot install the required app for your smart thermostat, try updating your device to the latest firmware version.

Thermostats can be kept clean with a microfibre cloth. Do not use excessive liquid cleaners or sprays.

A common wire (C wire) is an extra cable that supplies 24V electricity to a thermostat. Most smart thermostats and some programmable thermostats require them to enable certain features.

Thermostat wires are 24V AC.

Thermostat installation guidelines recommend installing thermostats 1.50m above the floor. Thermostats should not be installed in recesses, shelving, behind doors or curtains, directly above heat sources, or in direct sunlight. Most thermostats are situated in the hallway or lounge of a property.

In the UK, installing a thermostat on a heating system, particularly a boiler, involves working with electrical wiring and potentially the gas appliance itself. Due to the inherent risks, it’s highly recommended to use a qualified professional.

The most common and safest option for installing a thermostat connected to a gas boiler, is a Gas Safe registered engineer. They are qualified to work on gas appliances and their controls, which is essential for ensuring the installation is done correctly and safely, without compromising the boiler's function.

A qualified electrician is also a suitable choice, as thermostat installation primarily involves electrical work. They’re trained to handle wiring safely and can ensure the new thermostat is correctly connected to your heating system.

While some sources suggest it can be a DIY job, it is generally not recommended in the UK, especially for a boiler system. The risks include:

So, to ensure safety, compliance, and proper function, always use a Gas Safe registered heating engineer or a qualified electrician for thermostat installation in the UK. Many reputable companies employ professionals with both gas and electrical qualifications, making them a one-stop-shop for these jobs. Always ask to see their ID card or certificate before they begin work.

Setting up a new thermostat is a multi-step process that a professional installer will follow to ensure it functions correctly and safely with your heating system. While the exact steps can vary based on the type of thermostat (e.g. smart vs. traditional) and the heating system, it’s important to get a qualified professional for this job to ensure the new thermostat is a reliable, safe, and an efficient control unit for your home's heating system.

In order to install a smart thermostat, you’ll need:

If WiFi is not available, or if you’re installing a smart thermostat in a new build, it is still possible to install and set up smart thermostats through the unit itself. Most smart thermostats function like regular programmable thermostats without WiFi.