Smart thermostats: how to save and improve comfort at home

What is a smart thermostat and how does it work?

A smart thermostat is a device that regulates heating automatically and efficiently. Unlike traditional models, it incorporates sensors, Wi-Fi connectivity and algorithms that allow it to:

• Adjust the temperature according to your routines.
• Detect when you’re at home or away.
• Adapt to outdoor temperatures.
• Optimise heating use to avoid unnecessary consumption.

Its operation is based on collecting data about your daily usage. It then analyses it and applies settings that maintain comfort with the lowest possible energy consumption.

Differences between a smart and a conventional thermostat

As we’ve seen, both devices regulate temperature, but they do so in very different ways.

• Conventional thermostat

Allows you to set a temperature and, in some cases, programme simple schedules. However, it cannot adapt to your habits or changes in weather conditions.

• Smart thermostat

Learns your routines, automatically adjusts the temperature, can be controlled from your smartphone and provides detailed consumption data. It can also integrate with other home systems, such as aerothermal heat pumps, for more comprehensive energy management.

In short, the main difference lies in its ability to anticipate needs and optimise heating use.

Key benefits of smart thermostats

Among their many advantages, a few stand out:

Energy savings

By precisely adjusting the temperature and preventing the heating from running when it’s not needed, smart thermostats can reduce energy consumption by 10% to 25%. In other words, they keep your home at an optimal temperature without overheating it.

Mobile control

You can turn the heating on or off or change the temperature from anywhere. This is especially useful if you return home earlier than expected, leave the house and forget to turn the heating off or want to adjust the temperature before you arrive —also for the comfort of your pets.

Consistent comfort

Their sensors detect temperature variations and automatically correct the heating to maintain a stable indoor environment. They prevent sudden temperature swings and ensure a more pleasant thermal sensation.

Consumption data and statistics

Smart thermostats track your heating patterns, including activation times, duration of use and your preferred temperature settings. Using this data, they generate detailed reports that clearly show your consumption patterns.

This information makes it easier to identify habits that increase energy use —such as running the heating longer than necessary or setting the temperature too high. This allows you to adjust your usage to improve efficiency.

Personalised routines

Smart thermostats can learn your daily schedules and adapt the temperature at different times of the day —for example, more heat when you wake up, less when the house is empty and a comfortable temperature when you return home. All of this happens automatically, without the need for manual programming.

Smart home integration

Many models connect with voice assistants and smart home systems, enabling highly useful automations. For example, lowering the heating when a window is opened, activating eco mode when you leave home or coordinating climate control with other household devices to maximise efficiency.

Compatibility with different heating systems

Smart thermostats are compatible with most heating systems, such as:

• Gas or oil boilers.
• Electric heating systems.
• Underfloor heating.
• Heat pumps and aerothermal systems.
• Radiators with smart thermostatic valves.

Compatibility depends on the model, but most manufacturers provide guides to help you check whether your system is suitable. Always consult a professional to ensure compatibility and safe, efficient operation.

How to choose the right smart thermostat

When choosing a smart thermostat, it’s important to consider several key factors to make sure it truly improves your home’s heating:

• Compatibility with your heating system, whether it’s a boiler, heat pump, underfloor heating or radiators.
• Stable Wi-Fi connection, essential for controlling it from your smartphone at any time.
• Advanced features, such as geolocation, machine learning or voice assistant integration, to get the most out of the device.
• Easy installation, especially if you’re looking for a solution that doesn’t require construction work or complex modifications
• Intuitive app, making it easy to adjust temperature, check consumption data and set routines.
• Manufacturer updates and support, crucial for maintaining security, improving performance and adding new features over time.
  
  

Common mistakes when using a smart thermostat

Although these devices are very intuitive, some common mistakes can limit their performance and reduce expected savings:

• Setting the temperature too high: each additional degree increases consumption by 6% to 8%, so keeping a moderate temperature is key.
• Not activating smart features: many people use it like a conventional thermostat and miss out on tools such as geolocation or automatic learning.
• Installing it in an unsuitable location: if it’s near a heat source, in a cold hallway or exposed to direct sunlight, temperature readings will be inaccurate and heating will operate less efficiently.
• Not reviewing consumption reports: the data provided helps identify inefficient patterns and adjust usage to save more energy.
• Skipping heating system maintenance: a smart thermostat can’t compensate for a poorly adjusted boiler or air in the radiators, so proper maintenance is essential.

A smart thermostat can help optimise energy consumption. Still, for heating to work truly efficiently, the entire system must be in good condition.

Having a professional service like Comprehensive Gas Maintenance ensures regular inspections, breakdown assistance and safe boiler operation throughout the year. Combining technology with proper maintenance is the best way to enjoy a more comfortable home that’s ready for winter.