A range of helpful tips to set up all different necessary aspects of a smart heating system in a home.
Key tips for smart heating integration
Does the idea of fumbling with a clunky old thermostat and hoping for the best send shivers down your spine? And the rest of your shivering, inefficiently heated frame for that matter? Well thankfully, smart heating systems have revolutionised home comfort, allowing you to control temperatures remotely, optimise energy usage, and even command alterations to your heating patterns with your voice.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a self-proclaimed gadget hoarder, or just looking to cut down on energy bills without wearing three jumpers indoors, this guide will walk you through setting up a smart heating system in your home.
What you need for a smart heating setup
Before diving into installation, let’s cover the smart heating essentials you require. To set up a smart heating system, you’ll need:
- A smart thermostat – The brain of your heating system, controlling temperature and schedules. Think of your smart thermostat as the team captain, but without the shouting.
- Smart thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) – Thermostatic radiator valves allow zonal control, so your heating doesn’t behave like an overexcited puppy, warming the whole house when you only need one room to be cosy at a time.
- A compatible boiler & heating system – Most modern systems support smart heating controls, but it is important to check compatibility first—nobody wants to splash out on high-end technology only to find it’s about as useful as Gareth Southgate’s team selection in a major final.
- Wi-Fi & smart home hub (if required) – Good Wi-Fi is essential. If your internet struggles with Netflix, the chances are it will struggle with smart heating as well.
- Smart Assistants (Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit) – For voice control, because nothing says ‘future’ like telling your house to warm itself up.
- A smartphone or tablet – To configure and control your system via an app. Or to show off to your mates when they visit.
How to install and connect a smart thermostat
Setting up a smart thermostat is probably easier than you might think, but it does require a bit of electrical work. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Turn off power – Safety first! Switch off the power to your heating system before any tampering.
- Remove old thermostat – Carefully disconnect the existing thermostat from the wall. No need for a sledgehammer.
- Install the new backplate – Secure the mounting plate for your smart thermostat. Make sure it’s straight so you don’t have to tilt your head every time you check the temperature.
- Connect the wires – Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Incorrect wiring could lead to some unexpected surprises.
- Attach the thermostat – Snap it onto the backplate. You should hear a satisfying click – if not, you might need to make an adjustment.
- Power up & configure – Restore power, follow the app setup instructions, and connect to Wi-Fi. If in doubt, turn it off and on again (the classic IT fix).
Setting up smart TRVs for zonal control
Smart TRVs take heating efficiency to the next level by giving you control over individual radiators. Here’s how to get them up and running:
- Unscrew existing valves – If your radiators have existing thermostatic or manual valves, swap them out. If they don’t, well… they should.
- Attach smart TRVs – Screw the new TRVs in place and ensure a secure fit. A bit of brute force isn’t always a bad thing.
- Pair with your smart thermostat – Follow the manufacturer’s app instructions to connect them. This part feels like setting up a new phone, except it’s controlling heat instead of TikTok.
- Set room temperatures & schedules – Customise heating for each room so that your bedroom isn’t roasting while your living room feels like a winter’s day in Antarctica.
Syncing smart heating with Alexa, Google Home & Apple HomeKit
Want to control your heating with voice commands? Here’s how to connect your system to smart assistants:
- Check compatibility – Ensure your smart thermostat and TRVs support Alexa, Google, or Apple HomeKit. Otherwise, you’re just talking to yourself.
- Enable the appropriate skill/app – Open the Alexa, Google Home, or Apple Home app and enable the relevant smart heating integration.
- Link accounts & devices – Follow on-screen prompts to connect your thermostat to your smart assistant. It’s like making new friends, except these ones actually listen to your advice.
- Test voice commands – Try simple commands like “Alexa, set the living room to 21°C.” If it doesn’t work, check your microphone, or try asking nicely.
Creating schedules and automations for efficiency
To get the most out of your smart heating system, take advantage of automation features:
- Set heating dchedules – Program different temperatures for different times of the day. No need to wake up in a cold room ever again.
- Use Geofencing – Some thermostats adjust heating based on whether you’re home or away. Perfect for those who always forget to turn the heating off when they leave the house.
- Integrate with other smart devices – Sync with smart lighting or security systems for enhanced automation. You’ll feel like you live in a sci-fi movie.
- Monitor energy usage – Use app insights to track and reduce heating costs. Ideal for anyone who wants to cut down on energy bills without resorting to wearing six layers indoors.
Upgrade to smart heating solutions with BestHeating
With the right setup, a smart heating system can make your home more comfortable, convenient, and energy efficient. Whether you’re making a full upgrade to enjoy the benefits of zonal heating or just adding a few smart TRVs, follow this guide to stay in control of your heating like never before.
Look out for these 2025 smart heating trends, and remember – just because your heating is smart doesn’t mean you can’t still wrap up in a blanket with a cup of tea for that ultimate cosy feeling!
Shop smart heating solutions online today, and don’t forget to let us know about your upgrades on Instagram, Facebook or X.
John is a Research Specialist for the Best Heating Advice Centre, where for over nine years he has dedicated himself to demystifying home heating for our customers. He specialises in creating clear, data-driven guides and how-to articles by collaborating directly with our team of certified heating experts and product engineers.
His work, built on a foundation of journalistic research, has helped millions of readers make confident and informed decisions about their home heating. When he’s not breaking down the heat output differentials from radiators to heated towel rails, John fancies himself as a fine football and music connoisseur.
