What is a thermostat and why is it important for home heating?
A thermostat regulates the temperature in your home by automatically switching heating on and off to maintain comfortable, energy-efficient levels. It helps prevent overheating, wasted energy, and high bills.
What are the main types of thermostats available in the UK?
- Manual thermostats: Set your desired temperature directly.
- Programmable thermostats: Allow you to set heating schedules for different times or days.
- Smart thermostats: Control heating via smartphone apps, WiFi or voice assistants, e.g. Heatmiser neo, Drayton Wiser, Salus RT520.
- Wireless thermostats: Communicate wirelessly with your heating, ideal for retrofit projects.
- 12V thermostats: Low voltage, used in specialist applications like caravans or boats.
- Electric underfloor heating thermostats: With floor sensors for accurate control and protection of floor finishes.
- Bluetooth thermostats: Offer local app control without internet – see our Thermosphere BT21 Bluetooth Programmable Thermostat.
- Matter-enabled thermostats: Work with the new Matter smart home standard – see buildwithmatter.com.
What are the UK regulations and requirements for thermostats?
All UK heating systems must include programmable room thermostats and timing controls to comply with Part L Building Regulations. Under Boiler Plus regulations, all new boiler installations must include a timer and programmer and one of the following: load-compensating control, weather compensation, smart control, or appliance flue gas heat recovery.
What does 'Eco Compliant' mean for thermostats?
Eco-compliant thermostats meet or exceed UK efficiency standards. They often include features such as optimised start/stop, advanced scheduling, and integration with renewable heating to reduce energy usage.
How can using an advanced thermostat save money?
Smart and programmable thermostats can save 10–20% on heating bills by avoiding unnecessary heating, providing zone control, and adapting to building use patterns. See Energy Saving Trust advice.
Why is zone control important?
Zone control allows you to heat only the rooms you need, at the right temperature, improving comfort and saving energy. It is especially beneficial for larger properties and HMOs.
How do thermostats work with wiring centres?
Wiring centres connect multiple thermostats with actuators and heating circuits, centralising control and simplifying wiring in underfloor or multi-zone systems.
Can all thermostats control hot water as well as heating?
No. Only certain thermostats, such as some system or smart models, have separate hot water control. Check specifications if you need this function.
Why are electric underfloor heating thermostats different?
They use both floor and air temperature sensors for accurate heating control, preventing overheating and protecting the floor finish.
Can an electric underfloor heating thermostat control electric panel heaters?
Some can, provided they are rated for the heater's electrical load. Confirm compatibility before installation.
What is a Bluetooth thermostat and how is it different?
Bluetooth thermostats control heating locally via a phone or tablet, without internet access. Great for secure sites or areas without WiFi. See our Thermosphere BT21 Bluetooth Programmable Thermostat.
Which are the best thermostat brands in the UK?
- Salus – value and ease of use
- Heatmiser – leading in smart & UFH controls
- Drayton Wiser – strong multi-zone solutions
- Honeywell – reliable, well-known brand
- Thermosphere – electric UFH specialists
Browse our full thermostat range by type.
Why do most WiFi thermostats work on the 2.4 GHz band?
Most connect over 2.4 GHz for greater range and wall penetration, which suits homes better than the shorter-range 5 GHz band.
What are wireless and 12V thermostats for?
Wireless thermostats avoid running new cables, perfect for retrofits. 12V models are used for specialist or low-voltage control systems.
What are thermostat sensors and hidden sensors for hotels?
Hidden or remote sensors measure temperature discreetly, enabling tamper-proof control in hotels, rental properties, and commercial spaces.
Can thermostats be locked by code?
Yes, many models have PIN or code lock to prevent changes, ideal for landlords, housing associations, and commercial use.
Where can I compare thermostats by type?
See Quality Heating thermostat collection for all options including electric, underfloor, hot water, smart and programmable models.
Other useful features for landlords and housing associations
- Energy use reports per property/zone
- Remote and centralised control
- Restriction/lockout modes
- Frost protection and holiday modes
- Supporting compliance for EPC improvements
