Get the ultimate guide to smart thermostats and revolutionise your home heating with BOXT. Learn about features, benefits, and installation today!

<p>Like most people right now, you're probably looking for new ways to reduce your energy bills. This means you'll have already heard of smart thermostats.<br><br>But is it actually worth getting one?</p>
<p>At BOXT, we've laid out the ultimate guide to smart thermostats to give you all the information you need. We'll cover what they are, how they work, their key benefits, and much more.</p>
<h2>What is a smart thermostat?</h2>
<p>Some people confuse smart thermostats with smart meters. However, they're different things.</p>
<p>A smart thermostat is used to connect your heating system to the internet. You can then use your thermostat to control your heating via a smartphone or other device.</p>
<p>You can also link your thermostat to other smart home devices so that they can all be controlled from the same app.</p>
<h2>What do smart thermostats do?</h2>
<p>The main purpose of a smart thermostat system is that it allows you to control your heating from your phone. The features vary between thermostats but most smart thermostats include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Hot water control</li>
<li>Multi-room control</li>
<li>Draught detection</li>
<li>Safety and holiday patterns</li>
<li>Geo-fencing</li>
</ul>
<p>Exactly what your thermostat does depends on the model. For instance, if you have a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow">Google Nest thermostat</a>, it will have different capabilities to a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/google-nest-v-hive-thermostats" rel="follow">Hive Thermostat Mini</a>.</p>
<h3>How do they work?</h3>
<p>Smart thermostats work by connecting to your <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/" rel="follow">boiler</a> and your home's WiFi network. This then means you can control your boiler via your smartphone. However, not all old boilers are compatible with this.</p>
<p>If you have an old boiler, you should consider upgrading to a more <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/boiler-efficiency" rel="follow">energy-efficient boiler</a> anyway. That way, you'll have a boiler that's compatible with the best smart thermostats and your home will be more energy-efficient.</p>
<p>If you want to have even more control over your central heating system, then you could consider installing thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). These give you room-by-room control over your heating.</p>
<h2>What are the benefits of smart thermostats?</h2>
<h3>1. App-based scheduling</h3>
<p>One of the best smart thermostat benefits is the ability to schedule your heating directly from an app. This makes them incredibly easy to use in <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-thermostat-v-traditional-thermostat" rel="follow">comparison to traditional thermostats</a>. It also allows for comprehensive temperature management on a day-to-day basis.</p>
<h3>2. Remote control</h3>
<p>One of the key features of a smart thermostat starter kit is the app that you download onto your phone. The model that you choose will determine which app you need to download. For example, if you buy a Google Nest Learning Thermostat, you'll use the Nest app to control your thermostat.</p>
<p>The app allows you to control your heating remotely anywhere you have an internet connection. So, if you're on your way home, you can turn the heating on so that your house is warm when you arrive.</p>
<h3>3. Movement sensors</h3>
<p>Many smart thermostats have movement sensors that can detect when people are usually at home. This means they can provide you with information on when you're most likely to need heating, which helps you work out your schedule.</p>
<p>Some thermostats, like the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, use these sensors to learn your habits. They can then use this information to set the heating schedule, if you would like them to.</p>
<h3>4. Energy usage tracking</h3>
<p>One of the most useful smart features of these thermostats is the energy reports they give you. They allow you to closely track your energy use and show you how your energy use varies at different times. Many smart thermostats also give you tips on reducing your usage and lowering your heating and cooling costs.</p>
<h3>5. Voice control</h3>
<p>As well as temperature sensors and other features, many smart thermostats also have voice control capabilities. Depending on the model you choose, you can control your thermostat using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.</p>
<h2>How much are smart thermostats?</h2>
<p>Typically, smart thermostats cost between &pound;120 and &pound;220 depending on the model you choose.</p>
<p>Just remember, the most expensive option isn't necessarily the best smart thermostat. For example, the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium costs around &pound;204 but the Google Nest Learning Thermostat costs just &pound;169.95.</p>
<p>Although it's less expensive, in our opinion the Google Nest thermostat is definitely the better choice of the two.</p>
<p>You may have to pay around &pound;30 to &pound;80 to have your thermostat installed. However, there are plenty of models available that are easy for you to install yourself.</p>
<h2>How can they help you save money on energy bills?</h2>
<p>The biggest benefit of smart thermostats is that they help you to <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/simple-ways-to-save-money-on-your-energy-bill" rel="follow">save money on your energy bills</a>. The amount you can save on your heating bills largely depends on your preference of room temperature and also the time periods you have your heating on for, as well as the model you purchase.</p>
<p>A thermostat that's able to learn your habits and adjust the temperatures accordingly is likely to save you more money than a more basic model.</p>
<p>The fact that you can monitor your usage patterns and set your own schedules is the way that most people save money with smart thermostats.</p>

Learn

The ultimate guide to smart thermostats

Want to know what smart home technology will be popular this year? Read our guide to find out. 

<p>As technology advances, so do our homes. But what <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-home-technology-what-is-it" rel="follow">smart home technology</a> can we expect to see in 2024?&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here at BOXT, we've compiled a list of devices that will likely gain popularity this year. So, without further ado, let's look at how you can upgrade your home to the next level!</p>
<h2>1. Home automation</h2>
<p>If you're looking to simplify life at home, then automated or remote-controlled devices are what you need. With just the push of a button or a tap on your phone, you can control anything from lighting and heating to water and security.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It's fair to say that home automation has become increasingly popular over the last decade, and as a result, prices have been declining to meet demand.</p>
<p>Here are some smart home automated devices for you to consider:</p>
<h3>Smart thermostats</h3>
<p>This handy device allows you to control the temperature of your home. So long as you have mobile data or Wi-Fi, you can automatically adjust your heating with a single tap.<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/google-nest-v-hive-thermostats">&nbsp;</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/google-nest-v-hive-thermostats">Google Nest Learning</a> and Hive active heating thermostats are great for setting a schedule for when you'd like your heating to be turned on via an app or the thermostat itself. It's a fantastic way to accurately regulate and monitor energy costs to help you save money.</p>
<h3 role="presentation">Smart showers</h3>
<p>Ever wanted to walk straight into a shower without having to wait ages for it to heat up? Well, with a smart shower, you can control the temperature and how fast the water flows with the touch of a button, a touchpad or even just your voice.&nbsp;</p>
<p>So if you want a relaxing spa or tropical waterfall experience, a smart shower is a wonderful feature to have in your home.</p>
<h3 role="presentation">Smart light bulbs</h3>
<p>At the end of a long day, cuddling up in bed can be a great feeling, but just as you've got yourself comfy, you realise you need to turn the light off. But, if you had smart bulbs, you could switch your lights off remotely via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Some Smart bulbs even use the same app as their Smart Thermostat counterparts keeping your smart devices in one place.&nbsp; An example of Smart devices using the same app for activation is Hive.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Philips Hue is the leading company for energy-efficient light bulbs. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Philips-Hue-Portable-Compatible-Assistant/dp/B0B9T2LW6R?tag=androidpolice-20&amp;ascsubtag=UUapUeUpU1002688" rel="follow">Go Portable Table Lamp</a> is expected to be among the top picks this year, cycling through various lighting settings and colours thanks to the Hue app. Through this, you can also add Bluetooth devices or the Hue Bridge, which allows remote control access from multiple rooms outside the home and any other automation. Voice control is another option for those who would like such assistants.</p>
<p>Some smart LED light bulbs allow you to turn them on and off automatically to match the sunrise and sunset - so no more coming back late at night to a dark home.</p>
<h3>Interconnected devices</h3>
<p>Something else we'll see more of in 2024 is interconnected devices. Your phone can not only control your smart lights but also your TV, speakers and thermostat; it can even be used for checking security cameras.</p>
<p>Apple's HomeKit, for example, is an app that lets you connect with all Apple devices and other smart home accessories. Everything is in one place, meaning you can protect your data a lot more easily. You can use this app to connect with your Apple TV, lights, switches, thermostats, window blinds, fans, air conditioners, locks, and so much more.</p>
<p>It is estimated that there will be 30 billion connected devices in 2024.</p>
<h2 role="presentation">2. Security features</h2>
<p>Home security features are a great way to help your property feel safe and comfortable. It's important to protect yourself and your property, which is why adding a few security features to your smart home can bring you peace of mind.</p>
<p>Here are a few smart home security features you can expect to find in 2024.</p>
<h3>Smart cameras</h3>
<p>If you've experienced any suspicious behaviour surrounding your home or you simply want to check if a parcel has arrived, smart cameras allow you to see what's happening when you're not around. Using a smartphone, you can connect to a live feed wherever you are. You could be at work or on holiday and still have access to your smart cameras.</p>
<p>Some smart cameras will also allow you to talk and communicate with whoever is in close proximity, and you can control what the camera sees by turning the screen from left to right.</p>
<h3><strong>Smart locks</strong></h3>
<p>A <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/would-you-trust-a-smart-lock" rel="follow">smart lock</a> enables you to keep things protected via your smartphone. With the sound of your voice or a single tap, you can lock and unlock your home remotely.</p>
<p>Not only can it keep things secure, but smart locks can also monitor when someone has entered or left your home. It can connect with compatible smart home devices on the same Wi-Fi and allow you to see who the person is, making it easier to determine whether you have an intruder in your home or not.</p>
<p>This device is also great for parents who want to make sure their children have arrived back home safely without pestering them.</p>
<p>Opting for other keyless smart home systems is a great solution if you'd rather not use your smartphone. For example, some devices use custom passcodes, voice recognition and even fingerprints.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/August-Home-AUG-SL05-M01-G01-Wi-Fi-Generation/dp/B082VXRND2">August Wi-Fi Smart Lock</a> is said to be one of the best smart home devices, with open and close sensors and a log of everything that happens outside your front door. While you can sync this lock with smartphones, you can also add manual codes - this lock has got it all!</p>
<h2 role="presentation">3. Sustainable homes</h2>
<p>With a cost of living crisis and the threat of climate change increasing year on year, engineers and developers are constantly seeking sustainable solutions. Nowhere is this better showcased than with our homes.</p>
<p>From LED light bulbs and solar panels to natural insulation and recycled materials, with sustainable technology, you can save on energy, help the environment and also create better living conditions with improved air quality.</p>
<h3 role="presentation">Water conservation</h3>
<p>Perhaps the biggest trend when it comes to sustainable living in 2024 is saving water. With a cost of living crisis and energy bills increasing year on year, water conservation has become much more necessary. Smart water devices can help make your home greener and reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing warm and fresh water.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the UK alone, 2.4 billion litres of water are wasted each day due to leaks. This is the equivalent of around 1,200 Olympic swimming pools. Water waste is not just a huge problem for the UK but it also reflects the larger issues of climate change. With the right water conservation technology, not only will you be able to save money, but you will also help save the environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Leak detectors are a great way to monitor your water usage and check for any issues. <a href="https://www.moen.com/flo" rel="follow">Flo by Moen</a> is a great smart device that works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and other smart home systems. This detector will alert you about any leakage or changes in temperature and humidity so you can take the best course of action. You can even set this detector to shut off your water if it registers anything faulty, saving you money and energy.</p>
<p>Rainwater harvesting, which sees people collecting and storing rainwater for later use, is another trend that we can expect to see more of. Making rainy days a little less gloomy, you can use rain to water plants, wash your car or boil a kettle.&nbsp;</p>
<h2 role="presentation">4. Home ecosystems</h2>
<p>Voice recognition and home assistants have become the must-have piece of tech every smart home should have. It wasn't until Amazon Echo's digital assistant, Alexa, in 2014 that we began to see an influx in this type of smart home tech.</p>
<p>Having the ability to have your questions and needs answered through communicating with artificial intelligence has been astonishing. Whether you want to remind yourself of specific dates, shop, or turn the volume down on the smart speaker, simply talking to your AI will get the job done.</p>
<p>Unsurprisingly, Apple and Google followed suit and produced their own home systems with Apple Homekit and Google Home. Home ecosystems have undoubtedly become hugely popular, with every system offering a convenient and fast way to manage and control the appliances in your home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>But are there any other smart home systems that you can use in 2024?</p>
<p>When it comes to smart home devices, most people look for something clean and simple. Here are a few smart home systems we think will be popular in 2024.</p>
<h3 role="presentation">Samsung SmartThings</h3>
<p>The <a href="https://www.samsung.com/uk/smartthings/" rel="follow">SmartThings Hub</a> allows all kinds of devices to connect to Samsung's smart home system. Whether you accidentally left the lights on or want to make sure your home is at the right temperature when you get home, with a simple app, you can control devices in all rooms.&nbsp;</p>
<p>On the SmartThing app, the Favourites and Devices tabs require manual control, whereas the Life and Automation tabs allow for automation. For this, you&rsquo;ll need to plan and schedule when you&rsquo;d like your appliances to work. Scenes, for instance, allow users to manage multiple devices via voice recognition. If you were to say &ldquo;Goodnight&rdquo;, SmartThings will take that as a signal to close your blinds, turn the lights off and turn on any soothing sleep humidifiers all at once.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Automations allow users to set triggers for when appliances are to work. This can range from setting the time of day to recognising where your phone is in relation to certain tasks. If, for instance, you have forgotten to lock your door when you&rsquo;re upstairs in bed, your app will recognise this due to the time and location of your phone. This aspect of the app can take some getting used to, however, so it is worth trying things out first before becoming reliant.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Whether you have a smart bulb from Philips, an August smart lock or an Ecobee smart thermostat, you can use all three at the same time from the same app. Maybe you want the lights to turn on when coming home and unlock the door or lower the lights while watching a film. Connected devices can work in harmony with this Samsung ecosystem.</p>
<h3>Yonomi</h3>
<p>This little device can have multiple connected gadgets at once via an app which you can use to control and adjust your smart home devices. Yonomi offers more controls than Apple HomeKit, Alexa and Google Assistant, with its focus revolving around keeping a routine. This routine could be dimming the lights at dinner time or setting the right temperature before bed. Yonomi helps you set up a schedule for when you want to get things done.</p>
<p>You can also add other voice control assistants like Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant if you'd rather not use your phone constantly.</p>
<h2 role="presentation">5. Health, wellness &amp; sleep solutions</h2>
<p>Tech isn't just for security and entertainment, it can also be used to improve our health and wellness greatly. Whether you&rsquo;re looking to get yourself fit with a home gym or simply want to get a good night's sleep, there are a few smart gadgets that can assist you on your well-being journey.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Oura Ring helps to reduce stress and increase activity. Using an app to help track and monitor your behaviours, you&rsquo;ll know exactly how your body is feeling and what you can do to help it. This gadget will tell you when you need more sleep, when you&rsquo;re likely to be feeling ill, when is the best time to start exercising and check your blood pressure whenever you want. As well as this, the Oura Ring is very stylish and offers a nice alternative to smartwatches like the Apple Watch.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Smart technology can also work outside of the human body. You can use a variety of tech to assess your posture and produce scents to help you sleep. Anything to help you create an eco-friendly home that aids and improves your health is always desirable for a smart home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Air purifiers have become a sought-after smart home device to tackle pollution in the home and lessen the chances of contracting an air-borne disease. The popularity of these devices has undoubtedly been because of COVID-19, which has forced many people to think a lot more about hygiene in the home.</p>
<p>You can also relieve symptoms of Asthma, clean your air of particles and reduce the smell of bad odours thanks to air purifiers. Whether you&rsquo;d like to have one of these in your living room as both a cleansing and decorative piece or place it next to your bed to help you sleep at night, air purifiers are certainly going nowhere in 2024.</p>
<h2 role="presentation">6. Hidden tech</h2>
<p>In terms of design, it&rsquo;s becoming a trend to hide or subtly place technology around your house. A good example of this is having a TV screen at the end of your bed, which you can lower into your footboard and hide.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Smart plug sockets are also becoming a lot more discreet in the home both with their placement and adding a cover over them. Sometimes when designing and decorating your dream home, heavy, big or clunky pieces of technology can disrupt your vision, so finding ways to limit their visibility could be an option.</p>
<h2>Be smart about your home</h2>
<p>Technology is always evolving and developing, so it's not always certain what new advances could knock at our door, but we can make reasonable assumptions. The more we rely on AI and automation, the more wireless devices will be prominent in every aspect of life, including health and well-being.</p>
<p>Smart home devices aim to aid and benefit us. Life shouldn't be a chore when you have smart home control. Organise your lifestyle with a smart home hub to help you gain more free time for yourself and the things you love doing. With the tap of a finger, you can save money, lock in your home security, play music and keep your home looking modern and sleek.</p>

Our favourite smart home technology for 2024

Everything seems to include voice assistance these days. So, here’s why we think it's time to get yourself the latest smart home device.

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to modern tech, who&rsquo;s to tell smart homes will just become another fad that is brushed aside? As we&rsquo;ve seen in the past, things can quickly fall out of fashion or be overthrown by a superior device. Who could forget the humble Blackberry? Or the seriously impractical Segway scooter that no one bought? Eventually, people just realise they&rsquo;re not up to scratch.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, there are some clear signs that this wave of <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-home-technology-what-is-it" rel="follow">smart home technology</a> is going to be sticking around for a while. Everything seems to include voice assistance these days. So, here&rsquo;s why we think now is the best time to get yourself the latest smart home device.&nbsp;</span><strong></strong></p>
<h2>Plenty to get your teeth stuck in to.&nbsp;</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another reason to get yourself a smart home device is that there&rsquo;s such a wide variety available. From Philips Hue&rsquo;s smart light bulb, to the August Pro&rsquo;s smart lock for your doors - there&rsquo;s all sorts of interesting tech knocking about that would be perfect for your home. Also, there&rsquo;s revised versions of older models available, such as the Echo Dot with clock - a small change that makes a big difference.</span></p>
<h2>Life made simpler.</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unlike the unusually large Segway scooter, one of the huge benefits of smart home devices is the convenience of them all. They do actually make your life a lot easier. Control everything via voice assistance or if you can&rsquo;t be bothered speaking, then all smart home gadgets having their own bespoke app, you&rsquo;ll never have to get up and find the remote again - simply ask your Google Home.</span><b></b></p>
<h2>Truly transforms your home.&nbsp;</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As homeowners, we care about how our home looks, after all they&rsquo;re our pride and joy. Smart home gadgets are perfect for transforming your home. Taking quite mundane devices, such as a thermostat for your <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers" rel="follow">boiler</a>, and turning them in to a stylish and contemporary part of your home.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>More importantly, if you want to secretly show off when Karen and Steve are round you&rsquo;re bound to make an impression. Smart home tech was made to entertain guests, simply say &lsquo;Hey Google, tell me a joke&rsquo;, or ask 'what's the best wine to go with spaghetti bolognese?' It&rsquo;s good fun.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/T7ZwL4HDSQST2YFiLZP7" alt="smart-home-tech-nest-thermostat.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/your-home-of-the-future-whats-it-like" rel="follow"></a></p>
<p></p>
<div>For more information on smart home technology, check out these articles:</div>
<div></div>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-home-technology-what-is-it">Smart home technology - what is it?</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-thermostat-v-traditional-thermostat">Smart Thermostat V Traditional thermostat</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/would-you-trust-a-smart-lock">Would you trust a smart lock?</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/what-is-a-google-hub-mini">What is a Google Hub Mini?</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/the-google-gadget-every-home-needs">The Google gadget every home needs</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/google-nest-v-hive-thermostats">Google Nest V Hive thermostats</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat">Improve energy savings with your Google Nest Learning Thermostat</a></li>
</ul>

With a Home Cover plan you can get peace of mind your system is in safe hands

Time to get into smart home tech - here's why...

The way we’re living in our homes is evolving. Thanks to advancements in technology we’re now able to have more control over our home appliances. Smart home technology allows us to monitor appliances within our home more closely. Whether it’s via an app or through a smart home hub, they’re ...

<p>The way we&rsquo;re living in our homes is evolving. Thanks to advancements in technology we&rsquo;re now able to have more control over our home appliances. <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/why-now-is-the-best-time-to-get-into-smart-home-tech" rel="follow">Smart home technology</a> allows us to monitor appliances within our home more closely. Whether it&rsquo;s via an app or through a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/what-is-a-google-hub-mini" rel="follow">smart home hub</a>, they&rsquo;re a time saver as well as a money saver.</p>
<p>Although home technology may sound complicated, it&rsquo;s really quite straightforward. Once you&rsquo;re all set up, you&rsquo;ll be able to experience the comfort and ease of smart home technology making your daily life that much easier.</p>
<p></p>
<h2>What is a smart home?</h2>
<p>A smart home is essentially a living space where the technology is all connected. Whether you&rsquo;re using an app from a mobile device or via voice assistance - smart home technology is a great way of upgrading your home.</p>
<p>Almost any appliance within your household can use smart technology. From a smart alarm system to a lightbulb, the possibilities for smart home technology are endless.</p>
<p>Here are just a few that are available to you right now:</p>
<p></p>
<h3>Google Home Mini</h3>
<h2></h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/Q2PnbfmQUCdFe7q0TTGW" alt="undefined"></p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;"></h2>
<p>Portable, straightforward, and reasonably priced - the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/what-is-a-google-hub-mini" rel="follow">Google Home Mini</a> is an excellent way to control your home appliances by simply speaking. All you have to do is say &lsquo;Hey Google&rsquo; followed by a command, such as &lsquo;turn on living room lights&rsquo;, and the device will seamlessly carry out your instruction.</p>
<p>You can even listen to music, receive weather/news updates, and set alarms. Why not surf the internet by using voice assistance? Any questions that you need answered, just ask the Google Home Mini. It&rsquo;ll give you an answer or send you the relevant webpage through to your mobile device.Google Nest Cam Outdoor</p>
<p>Home security has never been this advanced. The Google Nest Cam Outdoor is the ultimate protection for you and your family, 24/7. You&rsquo;ll have eyes all over your property, wherever you are. Day or night, you&rsquo;ll know exactly who&rsquo;s supposed to be there and who isn&rsquo;t as you watch a live stream straight from your mobile.</p>
<p>Receive updates directly to your mobile device as this smart camera can recognise a person from just a thing. Whatever the weather forecast, the Google Nest Cam Outdoor works perfectly in any weather condition. Reliable, safe, and simple to set up - every family home can benefit from this smart home tech.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>YALE Keyless Connected Smart Lock</h3>
<p>Always losing your keys? It can happen to anyone. You&rsquo;ll never need a standard key again with the Yale Keyless Connected Smart Lock. Simply open your smart lock with your smartphone, key tag, key card, or phone tag.</p>
<p>This piece of equipment provides you with a bit more freedom when entering and leaving your home. Whilst the addition of the traditional pin code eliminates the need for any keys, it also provides you with that extra bit of security. A master pin code that only you and your family will know. At a reasonable price and quick installation, the Yale Keyless Connected Smart Lock gives you the peace of mind that your home is 100% safe.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>Google Nest Learning Thermostat</h3>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1qkSkOn4h-A" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>This smart home technology is a money saver. Prone to accidentally leaving the heating on before you leave for work? That&rsquo;s now a thing of the past. Control your thermostat straight from your mobile with the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow">Google Nest Learning Thermostat</a>, as you turn on and off your heating with complete ease. Set heating schedules to evolve around your heating habits, so you&rsquo;ll always be at a temperature that&rsquo;s right for you.</p>
<p>Built with a clear, easy-to-use interface, you&rsquo;ll know exactly what temperature you&rsquo;re at - always. The Google Nest Learning Thermostat also connects to smart home hubs so you can control via voice assistance - such as the Echo Dot or Google Nest Mini.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>Philips Hue Smart lights</h3>
<p>Discover the latest way of lighting up rooms in your household with Philips Hue Smart light. By connecting to Bluetooth via your smartphone, you&rsquo;ll be able to choose from a plethora of colours to find your ideal atmosphere. <br><br>From movie nights to having friends over - experiment with the shade and mood to create the ambience of your liking. Also, you can effortlessly set this up to your Google Mini Nest, so you can switch on your new lights via voice assistance.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell</h3>
<p>Take home security to a whole new level with the Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell. Now, whenever your doorbell rings you&rsquo;ll be made precisely aware of who&rsquo;s waiting outside your door.</p>
<p>Maybe you&rsquo;re expecting a parcel, but you&rsquo;ve left for work? Not a problem. When your doorbell is rung, you&rsquo;ll receive a notification to your mobile, where you&rsquo;ll be able to have a conversation straight from your phone. Equipped with HD video means you&rsquo;ll receive a picture quality that&rsquo;s as clear as day - instantly from your mobile phone. Uninterrupted streaming for your safety.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>Smart home tech of the future</h3>
<p>Smart home technology is growing rapidly each year, with more and more home appliances becoming smarter - but what can you expect from smart homes in the future? Aside from everything becoming wireless there are going to be some big developments in tracking our physical and emotional health.</p>
<p>Smart home technology is expected to expand to our toilet facilities. By using cutting edge technology, a smart toilet would be able to detect any diseases or infections a user may have. The smart toilet will analyse waste and make it easier for us to monitor our health.</p>
<p>Moreover, even our beds will become smarter. With many people struggling to sleep at night, smart beds are able to monitor our sleep patterns to help people get a healthy night&rsquo;s sleep. Similarly to the smart toilet, the smart bed will be an excellent way of keeping an eye on our health. By monitoring our heart rate and breathing, the bed will be able to adjust itself to match the needs of the user by sensing pressure points and restfulness.</p>
<p></p>
<div><span>For more information on smart home technology, check out these articles:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-thermostat-v-traditional-thermostat">Smart Thermostat V Traditional thermostat</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/would-you-trust-a-smart-lock">Would you trust a smart lock?</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/what-is-a-google-hub-mini">What is a Google Hub Mini?</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/the-google-gadget-every-home-needs">The Google gadget every home needs</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/google-nest-v-hive-thermostats">Google Nest V Hive thermostats</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat">Improve energy savings with your Google Nest Learning Thermostat</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/why-now-is-the-best-time-to-get-into-smart-home-tech">Time to get into smart home tech - here's why...</a></li>
</ul>

Smart home technology - what is it?

Convenient, flexible, and gives you ultimate control over your surroundings, the possibilities for smart home technology are endless.

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For many of us, going into the office is now a thing of the past. Swapping a shirt and tie for dressing gowns and slippers, colleagues for family members, and the M62 for our landing stairs. Remote work appears to be the modern way to earn a living and it fits perfectly into the world of smart home technology.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Convenient, flexible, and gives you ultimate control over your surroundings, the possibilities for smart home technology are endless. From smart home hubs to smart thermostats they can have a huge benefit to your livelihood and are a great way to adapt to working away from the office. Here are just some of the smart home gadgets that can improve your &lsquo;working from home&rsquo; life...</span></p>
<h2><br /><b>Google Home Mini.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You&rsquo;re at your desk, chipping away at whatever work you have to do that day. You&rsquo;re bored, you need a lift, a pick me up: &lsquo;Hey Google, play Escape (the Pina Colada song)&rsquo;. Within seconds, you&rsquo;re now having the time of your life. The <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/what-is-a-google-hub-mini" rel="follow">Google Home Mini</a> is a voice assisted <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/what-is-a-google-hub-mini" rel="follow">smart home hub</a>, it&rsquo;s compact with an impressive volume for its size, and looks great wherever you place it.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This clever little gadget doesn&rsquo;t just play 80&rsquo;s classics, it also makes a great work assistant. You&rsquo;ll be able to take notes, set alarms, and call clients by simply saying &lsquo;Hey Google&rsquo;. The Google Home Mini can even provide you with a quick news and weather update, just in case you forget why you&rsquo;re working from home in the first place.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/what-is-a-google-hub-mini" rel="follow"></a></span></p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/dwBFQH7uRxWyWcrC6dh8" alt="undefined" /></p>
<h2><br /><b>Google Learning Thermostat.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Remember the old days of working in an office? When there was always that one colleague who would set the thermostat at an abnormally high temperature... This is why the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow">Google Nest Learning thermostat</a> is great for those of us 9 to 5&rsquo;ing at home - you can set the temperature that&rsquo;s right for you.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">By downloading the Google Nest mobile app, you can set heating schedules, turn the heating on, off, higher, or lower - wherever you are in the world. No more getting up and fiddling with your old thermostat, simply set your ideal temperature from your mobile and concentrate on getting some work done (at a temperature that isn&rsquo;t sweltering ). Cutting edge technology with efficient results.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow"></a></span></p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/r7jNy52WRxyJzCeCY9fb" alt="google-nest-on-wall.png" /></p>
<h2><br /><b>Smarter Coffee Machine SMCOF01</b><b>.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Start an early morning the right way with the Smarter Coffee SMOF01 machine. A barista style coffee right in the comfort of your own home is exactly what you need whilst you're</span><b> </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">staring at spreadsheets</span><b>.&nbsp;</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wake up to the smell of fresh coffee every day as the Smarter Coffee app allows you to start brewing a coffee anywhere you are via the Smarter app and set a schedule at when you&rsquo;d like your coffee. You can even select your desired strength and the number of cups you&rsquo;d like -&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This ingenious coffee machine can even connect to your Google Home Mini or Echo Dot. Get instant coffee without moving a single muscle.</span></p>
<p></p>
<h2><b>Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maybe you&rsquo;re expecting a parcel, but at the same time you&rsquo;ve got an important email that needs writing. Now, you can deal with both thanks to the Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell. You&rsquo;ll be able to see who&rsquo;s at the door in clear HD straight to your mobile device. Talk to them directly from your mobile, and you&rsquo;ll never miss an Amazon delivery again.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></p>
<p></p>
<h2><b>Phillips Hue Light Bulb.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Working from home means that it&rsquo;s up to you to make your work space as comfortable as possible. This is crucial as you&rsquo;ll be spending all of your working day at your desk, so even the smallest of changes can make a difference. The Philips Hue Light Bulb is the difference your &lsquo;home office&rsquo; is waiting for. A smart bulb that allows you to choose from hundreds of colours to create an atmosphere that&rsquo;s perfect for you.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You&rsquo;re able to turn your main living room light on right from your desk. The Philips Light Bulb effortlessly connects to your Google Home Mini or Echo Dot which means all you have to do is say &lsquo;Hey Google turn on living room light&rsquo;, and you&rsquo;ll be out of the winter darkness, useful for when the days start getting shorter.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/15QmiyipQZeNvFM3L7rE" alt="smart-bulbs.png" /></p>
<h2><b>TCP Smart Wi-Fi plug.</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the downsides of working from home is the fact that those energy bills will be higher than usual. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Affordable, reliable, and efficient, the TCP Smart Wi-Fi plug is a great way to monitor your energy consumption. Set schedules and timers, so you can switch on your fan or charge your mobile at any time of day. It&rsquo;s super easy to set up and work on android or smartphones, you can download the app and get set up right away.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></p>
<p>If you liked this we recommend our guide to the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/the-google-gadget-every-home-needs" rel="follow">Google gadget that every home needs</a>.</p>
<p></p>

How smart home technology can help you work from home

We’re delving deep into new cutting edge technology that’s already available, and pondering how this will develop in the near future.

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the 1980&rsquo;s, Steven Spielberg&rsquo;s classic trilogy, &lsquo;Back To The Future&rsquo;, predicted that by 2015 we&rsquo;d all be cruising around on hoverboards, own a pair of automatically lacing trainers, and have a biff as president of the United States. Some predictions more accurate than others...</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But what about the future of our homes? 20 years from now, what will they be like? We&rsquo;re delving deep into the fate of our properties, exploring new cutting edge technology that&rsquo;s already available, and pondering how this will develop in the near future.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2><br /><b>Haven&rsquo;t mastered voice assistance, yet? You&rsquo;d better hurry up.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The sky&rsquo;s the limit. Almost everything in your home of the future will be influenced by voice assistance. Your TV, lighting, locks, and even purchasing items online will all be done via your vocal chords. The wheels are already in motion, too. By 2020, it&rsquo;s considered that 50% of all searches online will be voice based. With the rise of Amazon Echo and Google Home, you can already control most appliances in your homes. This is likely to increase as consumers become more smart home savvy.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thanks to the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow">Google Nest Learning Thermostat</a>, you&rsquo;re even able to control your central heating. By just saying those magical &lsquo;Hey Google&rsquo; words, you can set a heating schedule, turn up or down your temperature, and can be done on an app if you choose. So, say goodbye to the manual way of doing things, all you need is the dulcet tones of your voice and you&rsquo;ll be in full command of your home of the future.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><iframe width="350" height="196" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/oZLd_KA_ork" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></span></p>
<h2><b>Self-sustaining, self-efficient.&nbsp;</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Due to global warming concerns, our future homes are going to have to rely heavily on renewable energy and will have to become self sustaining. Using smaller more powerful solar panels, hydro generators, or combining the two will be a very common way to produce energy.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A self sustaining home is something that we&rsquo;re all going to have to get used to, this means growing our own food and having our own water supply. Imagine never having an electric bill again? Although It may sound far-fetched, think of how much money, energy, and emissions will be saved. We&rsquo;ll be making Greta Thunberg proud.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/FG0nG5HATwu0lo0MpOwW" alt="undefined" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p><b></b></p>
<h2><b>Micro-livin&rsquo; la vida loca.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I&rsquo;m sure we&rsquo;ve all sat for hours in that tedious commuter traffic, asking ourselves why we thought getting a job and contributing to society was ever a good idea.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">But whether we like it or not, space is a growing problem that will continue to be so in coming times. Especially in overcrowded cities, what with overpopulation and housing shortages.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Which is why in Tokyo, many young people live in &lsquo;cupboard sized&rsquo; flats - having everything a person would need within 9 square metres. Cheap and efficient, they&rsquo;re the answer to the rising apartment prices in cities. Being creative with space and being open to new furniture designs is essential.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Industrial, compact, and with flexible designs, our future homes are expected to follow a similar trend. Like straight out of a Bond film, you&rsquo;ll be able to transform space from a bedroom to a lounge - in an instant.</span></p>
<h2><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/U0Iah3QNRZddXepxFDcw" alt="undefined" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /><br /><b>Not quite hovercrafts, but electric will do.&nbsp;</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">BMW, Tesla, Audi, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz, are just a few manufacturers that are paving the way for low emission cars. With Nissan surpassing its 400,000 units sold early in 2019, making it the most popular electric car in the world.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Along with this new wave of electric cars, there&rsquo;ll be an increased demand for <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers" rel="follow">electric vehicle chargers</a>. These can be installed within your home; wherever you park your car and reduces the need for power plants and grid storages. Italy, Spain, and the UK could save &euro;1.3 billion each year. So, make some room in your garage - the future is electric.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><br /><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/ycBGF3KT8GZUQ6LoUmNb" alt="undefined" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>

Your home of the future - what's it like?

Ever wanted your own personal assistant? The Google Nest Mini is convenient, intelligent, and plenty of fun.

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ever wanted your own personal assistant? Convenient, intelligent, and plenty of fun for the whole family, the Google Hub Mini will redefine your home. Essentially, the Google Hub Mini is a smart speaker that has a built-in voice assistance that you can interact with.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">By connecting to your Wi-Fi, it allows you to ask various questions and make requests, such as 'play Stranger things on Netflix', without you having to move a muscle. All you have to do to get set up is download the &lsquo;Google Home&rsquo; app and just follow the simple instructions.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2><b>Your very own Google assistant.&nbsp;</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Now rebranded as the &lsquo;<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow">Google Nest Mini&rsquo;</a>, this is the clever gadget every family home needs. Sleek, cutting edge, and portable - this smart home hub looks great wherever you decide to place it. Its compact size means that this fits perfectly on any shelf or bedside table without taking up too much room.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2><b>The best of its knowledge.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Indulge your curiosity. Pick the Google Nest Mini&rsquo;s brain and ask it anything that&rsquo;s on your mind. Want to know the capital of Slovenia? Or what about a tasty Thai green curry recipe? No problem. It&rsquo;s the new, easy way to surf the internet - just begin whatever you need to know with &lsquo;Hey Google&rsquo; and it&rsquo;ll tell you everything it knows.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;</span><b><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/YPNRHfPVTgmIcCGlx2ij" alt="photo-1511842745775-b366af36db2a.jpg" width="678" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></b></p>
<h2><b>Quality sound.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Don&rsquo;t be fooled by its size. Although small in stature, the Google Nest Mini has an excellent audio output. Why not put it to good use by playing your favourite artists on Spotify or Deezer? Whether you&rsquo;re having a few friends over or just blasting out the tunes whilst you're cooking, the Google Home Nest is suitable for any occasion.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Have trouble sleeping? The Google Nest Mini has just the thing for you. Relax to the gentle crashing of the waves and feel yourself slowly drift off. It even has the sound of a rainforest and rain droplets, too. Simply say those magic words and you&rsquo;ll be out like a light.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><b></b></p>
<h2><b>Manage everyday tasks.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We all have busy lives, so it&rsquo;s easy to forget to take the bins out or to pick up a birthday present. Effortlessly organise your day by setting alarms and reminders with the Google Nest Mini. Why not create your own schedule for the week? That way you&rsquo;ll always be on time; prepared for whatever the day brings you.</span></p>
<p><b></b></p>
<h2><b>Endless smart home possibilities.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/smart-home-technology-what-is-it" rel="follow">Smart home technology</a> is the future. That&rsquo;s why once you have the Google Hub Mini, it opens the door for a range of smart home technology for you to play around with. From the smart bulb to <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-thermostat-v-traditional-thermostat" rel="follow">smart thermostats</a> - almost anything in your home can be smart.</span><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/our-favourite-smart-home-devices-of-2019" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Information in this guide is correct as of 16/09/2020</p>

What is a Google Hub Mini?

Don’t panic, this isn’t scaremongering, just some interesting advice that’ll have some positive results on your bank account.

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For many of us, when we see something with a hefty price tag it immediately detracts us from purchasing - which is understandable. But sometimes spending extra could save your future self a whole lot of cash...</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">OK don&rsquo;t panic, this isn&rsquo;t one of those scaremongering articles reminding you how low on cash we all are. No, this is just some interesting advice that&rsquo;s guaranteed to have some positive results on your bank account.</span></p>
<p></p>
<h2><b>Freshen up your boiler.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Buying a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">new boiler</a>. A chore that us homeowners have to go through at some point in our lives. A costly, unexciting investment where you&rsquo;d probably have more fun punching yourself repeatedly in the face. However, switching from an old boiler to a revitalised modern one really can save you big money - honest!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It&rsquo;s all to do with efficiency rating. The more efficient a boiler is the less energy is required to heat up your home. The less energy used, the more money you save. It just so happens that many of the newer models are rated A for <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/what-is-erp" rel="follow">efficiency</a>. See the benefits of a new boiler in your home and lower those energy bills, today.</span><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/what-is-erp" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></a></p>
<h2><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/exkPuSeIQe2Ib511xkuU" alt="undefined" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></h2>
<h2><strong>Get smart with your home.</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some might say that smart home technology is a glimpse into our impending AI takeover apocalypse. But If it means saving a few quid every month, I for one welcome our machine overlords.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can get smart anything these days, from smart locks to smart bulbs - all controlled via an app or voice assistance. It&rsquo;s great, the apps show you how much your spending each month on energy bills so you know exactly what your hard earned cash is paying towards. This way, you can keep an eye on your energy spending without any surprises.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">See our <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/our-favourite-smart-home-devices-of-2019" rel="follow">favourite smart home devices of 2019</a>.</span></p>
<p><b></b></p>
<h2><b>The clever Google Nest Learning Thermostat.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The thermostat: you know that thing we never think about that&rsquo;s somewhere in our homes, but nobody knows where&hellip; A mysterious, yet important device that we should be constantly monitoring. Now thanks to the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow">Google Nest Learning Thermostat</a>, we can.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Control your heating via the app, wherever you are - why not set heating schedules as well? It&rsquo;s not only a convenient way of saving money but looks super stylish, too. Works excellently with voice assistance, all you have to do is connect to your smart home hub device - and away you go.&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/T7ZwL4HDSQST2YFiLZP7" alt="undefined" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<h2><b>Electric, efficient, clean.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jeremy Clarkson&rsquo;s idea of hell, our planet&rsquo;s saviour. <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/electric-car-charging/guides/are-ultra-low-emission-vehicles-worth-it" rel="follow">Electric vehicles</a> are becoming increasingly popular, with Nissan selling over 400,000 in early 2019.&nbsp; But why are they so popular? Well, they&rsquo;re eco-friendly meaning zero emissions which is pretty useful for the environment. Also, they&rsquo;re way cheaper to run than other types of vehicles.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On average, gas guzzlers will cost you around &pound;10,000 to run for over six years, in contrast to EV which costs &pound;6,400. This is because no fuel is required, simply plug it in to an <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers" rel="follow">EV charger</a> station and you're done.&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/electric-car-charging/guides/are-ultra-low-emission-vehicles-worth-it" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></a></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/EhZW0KtRFO2LpGMniEpQ" alt="electric-car-4381728_1280.jpg" width="888" height="592" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<h2><b>Super solar energy.</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contrary to popular belief, <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/solar" rel="follow">solar panels</a> don't need the scorching sun of the Sahara desert beaming directly over them to produce energy. All they need is standard daylight - perfect for our British weather.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Initially, solar energy is for sure a big investment. Roughly costing between &pound;3,600 - &pound;7,000, but once installed they can reduce your energy bills by 70%. Which means over time you&rsquo;ll see yourself getting that money back. Requiring very little maintenance and with a lifespan of between 30-40 years - it&rsquo;s reliable, sustainable, and effective.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><br><br></p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/8zhUB89ASU2QYgogisbj" alt="undefined" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/why-now-is-the-best-time-to-get-into-smart-home-tech" rel="follow"></a></p>

Save up to £98 a month on electricity bills with solar panels & battery storage

5 investments that could save you plenty

Here at BOXT, we’re passionate about delivering top quality solutions for your home. Here we pick some great home gadgets for you to consider

<p><b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here at BOXT, we&rsquo;re passionate about delivering top quality <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers" rel="follow">boilers</a> and <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/air-conditioning" rel="follow">air conditioning</a> at a fair, fixed price.&nbsp; As well as that, we're also really in to modern <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-home-technology-what-is-it" rel="follow">smart home technology</a>. So, with only a few weeks of 2019 left we&rsquo;re looking back at some of the smart home gadgets that have caught our eye this year.</span></b><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers" rel="follow"></a></p>
<h2><b>1). Google Nest Learning Thermostat</b></h2>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Much of smart home technology transforms something boring in our homes into an interesting and handy bit of tech. The <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/improve-energy-savings-with-your-google-nest-learning-thermostat" rel="follow">Google Nest Learning Thermostat</a> is no exception. It can set heating schedules, learn your routine, and can all be done on the Nest mobile app.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It&rsquo;s a great way of saving money as well. Let&rsquo;s face it, none of us really think about thermostats when we&rsquo;re at home, it&rsquo;s normally tucked away on a wall somewhere. With the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, it makes you more aware of how much you're spending - so you can keep an eye on your heating habits. Combining a convenient app and stylish interface looks great wherever you decide to place it.&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/worcester-bosch-boilers" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></a></p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/1qkSkOn4h-A" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<h2><br /><b>2). Amazon Echo</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span><b></b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your new best friend, Alexa, will help you with almost anything. From a weather update to playing the latest tunes - the Echo does it all. You can even make calls, set timers, and ask Alexa anything that&rsquo;s on your mind. The days of mobile surfing are over, the Echo is there to make your life easier, perfect for doing some online shopping - all you need to do is ask!&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2><br /><b>3). Belkin WeMo Insight</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Belkin WeMo Insight, is the adapter that enables you to turn appliances on and off - wherever you are. You guessed it, this can all be done on the WeMo app and with voice assistance (if you have an Echo or Google Home product). </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This nifty gadget allows you to keep an eye on your energy costs, a useful tool for saving money. It tells you an estimated monthly cost and how long the plug has been in use for - meaning no more surprises when those bills arrive&hellip; Why not set energy schedules as well? Simply get on the app and it will tell you everything it knows - in real time, too.</span></p>
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<h2><b>4). Nest Protect</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Give your home the ultimate protection. The Nest Protect is the smart smoke detector that everyone should be using. By downloading the app, you&rsquo;ll be aware of the status of your home at all times, by alerting your mobile when it senses smoke or carbon monoxide. This gadget epitomises peace of mind - perfect for all homes.</span></p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/METDdcmklVE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
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<h2><b>5).</b> <b>Google Home Mini</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Smaller than the Amazon Echo but a whole lot cheaper. We know it arrives earlier every year, but the Google Home Mini is the perfect gift for Christmas without breaking the bank. Still blessed with excellent sound quality, you&rsquo;ll be able to search the internet and do all of the smart things you&rsquo;d expect. Need to make a shopping list, can&rsquo;t find a pen and paper? No problem, simply say those magical &lsquo;Hey Google&rsquo; words and it&rsquo;ll remember it for you and send it to the Google Home app you&rsquo;ve downloaded.&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2><b>6). August Smart Lock Pro</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You read it correctly, there&rsquo;s actually a smart lock. The August Smart Lock Pro is a convenient way of locking and unlocking your door via an easy to use app on your smartphone. This means no more searching around for your keys and having a mini heart attack every time you think you&rsquo;ve lost them. It also works great with Amazon Echo and Google Home - you&rsquo;ll never have to do an awkward doorstep greeting again.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We&rsquo;ve all done it, leaving the house and having the &ldquo;did I lock the front door?&rdquo; mental quandary, it can be torture. Now, with the August Smart Lock Pro&rsquo;s &lsquo;automation&rsquo; setting, your door will automatically lock itself and provide a status via the app, so you don&rsquo;t have to remember or stress about a thing.&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2><b>7). Philips Hue</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Say goodbye to switching your lights on the manual way, it&rsquo;s in the dark ages now. &lsquo;Bring your home to life&rsquo; with the Philips Hue LED lamp bulbs. Once connected to your Wi-Fi and Google Home or Echo, you&rsquo;re able to control any of the Philips Hue lights in any room via voice assistance. Choose from a variety of colours and transform your living room - set a mood that&rsquo;s right for you. Like every other smart home device, it can be controlled wirelessly on the app.&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/top-tech-to-look-out-for-in-2020" rel="follow"></a></p>

Our favourite smart home devices of 2019

Let BOXT's experts take you through how to use your Google Nest Learning Thermostat, and the benefits of upgrading to smart home technology.

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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Google Nest Thermostat is an incredibly clever piece of technology. As a learning thermostat, it &lsquo;learns&rsquo; from your day to day schedule to provide the best, most personal experience. Over time, your thermostat will automatically turn on and off. As well as updating room temperature at different times of the day to your own personal preferences. Better still, this <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-thermostat-v-traditional-thermostat" rel="follow">smart thermostat</a> is the perfect tool to save you energy and money.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Using smart thermostat technology is super easy, and there are many ways you can use your new piece of technology to improve energy savings in your home. We'll take you through how to use your Google N</span><span>est Lear</span>ning Thermostat, and the benefits of upgrading to <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/smart-home-technology-what-is-it" rel="follow">smart home technology</a>.&nbsp;</p>
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<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Installing your thermostat.</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before you can begin the learning process, you&rsquo;ll need to install your Google Nest technology. Simply follow your installation guide on how to connect it to your system, safely and properly.&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Begin by teaching your thermostat.</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Once your thermostat has been installed and you have control, you can then begin to help your thermostat learn your schedule. Actions such as walking in front of your thermostat to trigger the motion sensor, or altering the temperature of it to one that is comfortable for you will help it to adjust over time.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example, if you usually turn down your thermostat before you go to bed or turn it up a few extra degrees in the mornings, your thermostat will recognise this pattern and begin to automatically adjust itself to match. The trick to saving energy is to teach it well. For example, turn down your heating in the evenings and your thermostat will begin to follow suit.&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understanding Eco Temperature.</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your Google Nest Learning Thermostat can switch to an Eco Temperature mode to conserve energy when there&rsquo;s no one home. If you&rsquo;re looking to further lower your energy usage, you can set your thermostat to Eco Temperature yourself if you don&rsquo;t mind a little cooler temperature. It can also use Home/Away Assist in collaboration with your phone&rsquo;s location to tell your thermostat when your family members have left home, and when they are likely to return.</span></p>
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<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Improve your energy savings with the Google Nest Learning Thermostat</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are many different ways you can use your learning thermostat to help improve the savings you make on your monthly energy bills. Here are a few things to try:&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Turn down your thermostat by 1&deg;C.</span></h3>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether your Google Nest Learning Thermostat is set at 20&deg;C or 21&deg;C, you won&rsquo;t be able to tell the difference. It&rsquo;s recommended that you try and turn down your thermostat by as little as one degree to see the difference in your energy bill each month. That&rsquo;s all it takes. Better still, if you can turn it down more than one degree, you&rsquo;ll be saving even more - it&rsquo;s all about finding your comfort level and sticking with it</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Don&rsquo;t turn it up if you want fast heat.</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A higher temperature on your thermostat won&rsquo;t make your radiators heat up faster. If you want to ensure you have heating when you need it, you&rsquo;ll need to use the scheduling tools on your thermostat to set your heating in advance. No matter what temperature you set your thermostat to, your home will heat up at the same speed.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Time-To-Temperature.</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A handy feature of your new Google Nest Learning Thermostat is the Time-To-Temperature, which you can see directly on the screen. This feature will tell you how long it takes for your home to heat up to your desired temperature. You should have a play around with this feature, but whatever your favoured heat temperature, it shouldn&rsquo;t take too long.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nest Leaf.</span></p>
<p><span>The Nest Leaf will appear on the screen of your thermostat when you have an energy-saving temperature set. This isn&rsquo;t a set temperature for every household; the thermostat will learn what you&nbsp;</span>normally use and, if you set your thermostat to a lower temperature, it will pick up on the fact that you are saving energy. Whenever you see the icon, you know you&rsquo;re saving energy - Just follow the leaf.</p>
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<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nest Thermostat compatibility.</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It&rsquo;s important to make sure your Google Nest Learning Thermostat will work with your heating system. The thermostat has been created with a variety of systems in mind, but it&rsquo;s worth checking first before you purchase. If you&rsquo;re unsure, chat with one of our engineers on our live chat instantly.</span></p>
<h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Using Google Nest technology can help you to improve on the amount of energy you use.</span></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A Google Nest Learning Thermostat could be the push you need to help you save energy and money. It&rsquo;s good to know that you have the support you need to make a change and get help and advice whenever you need it.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you need more information about the Google Nest Learning thermostat, or you&rsquo;d like to speak to an engineer about your boiler&rsquo;s compatibility, get in touch with us instantly via our live chat.&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/smart-home/guides/google-nest-v-hive-thermostats" rel="follow"></a></p>

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