Buyer's guide

Smart controls, compared without the jargon.

The best heating system in the world still needs a controller you actually enjoy using. Smart thermostats let you heat the rooms you're in, when you're in them, and adjust everything from your phone — which, done well, keeps you comfortable and keeps running costs down. Here's a plain-English look at four we're happy to fit and set up. There's no single 'best' one; the right choice depends on your boiler, your home and how hands-on you like to be. Tell us your setup and we'll point you at the sensible option.

Google Nest Learning Thermostat

Best for

People who want it to think for them

Learns your routine over the first week or two and builds its own schedule, then nudges you towards more efficient settings. Slick to use and looks the part on the wall. Works with most combi and system boilers.

Works with · Google Home, works alongside most smart-home setups

tado° Smart Thermostat

Best for

Homes that want room-by-room zoning

Strong on multi-room control — add smart radiator valves and you can heat individual rooms on their own schedules. Geofencing turns the heating down when the last person leaves and back up as you head home.

Works with · Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home

Hive Active Heating

Best for

Simple, reliable everyday control

A no-nonsense, easy-to-live-with option with a clear app and straightforward scheduling. A popular, well-supported choice for a standard combi boiler where you just want dependable control from your phone.

Works with · Alexa, Google Home

Drayton Wiser

Best for

Value-conscious zoning without the fuss

Good-value multi-room control that grows with you — start with the hub and thermostat, add radiator valves room by room later. A sensible middle ground between simple and fully zoned.

Works with · Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home (via hub)

Not sure which fits your boiler?

That's exactly the kind of thing we're happy to advise on. Tell us your system and how you like to run your heating, and we'll recommend, supply and set up the right controls — then show you how to use them.

Call 020 3685 5102 Ask us