Setting Up a Smart Thermostat: A Complete Guide

A smart thermostat is one of the most practical smart home devices you can buy. With a smart thermostat you save energy, make your home more comfortable and always stay in control of the temperature, wherever you are. In this article we explain step by step how to set up popular smart thermostats such as Tado, Google Nest and other brands.

Why a smart thermostat?

Before we start with the installation, it is good to know why a smart thermostat is so useful. A smart thermostat learns from your behavior and adjusts the heating automatically. Leaving home? The heating switches to a lower setting. Coming home? It is nice and warm. This not only saves energy but also makes your home more comfortable.

You can also control the thermostat with your smartphone, tablet or voice assistants such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. That way you never have to get up to adjust the thermostat again.

Preparing for the installation

Before you start installing your smart thermostat, there are a few things you need to check and prepare.

Check compatibility

Not every smart thermostat works with every heating system. So first check whether your thermostat is compatible with your current central heating boiler or heat pump. Most manufacturers offer a compatibility check on their website. If in doubt, you can also contact customer service or an installer.

What do you need?

  • The smart thermostat and all included parts
  • A smartphone or tablet with the matching app
  • Your Wi-Fi network name and password
  • A Phillips screwdriver
  • Possibly a drill for wall mounting

Turn off the heating

For your safety, it is important to turn off the heating before you start. Also cut the power to the central heating boiler if you are going to work on the wiring.

Setting up a Tado smart thermostat

Tado is a popular European brand known for its user-friendly thermostats and excellent energy savings.

Step 1: Download the Tado app

Download the Tado app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and create an account with your email address.

Step 2: Install the Internet Bridge

The Tado thermostat works through an Internet Bridge that you connect to your router. Connect the Bridge with the included network cable and plug it into a power outlet. Wait until the light turns green.

Step 3: Replace your old thermostat

Follow the instructions in the app to remove your old thermostat. The app shows exactly which wires go where on your new Tado thermostat. Take photos of the old wiring before you disconnect it.

Step 4: Mount the Tado thermostat

Attach the mounting plate to the wall and connect the wires according to the instructions. Then click the thermostat onto the plate.

Step 5: Configure it in the app

The app guides you through the configuration. You set your location for presence detection and optionally create a heating schedule.

Setting up a Google Nest thermostat

The Google Nest thermostat is a stylish device that integrates perfectly with other Google products.

Step 1: Download the Google Home app

The Nest thermostat is set up through the Google Home app. Download this app if you don't have it yet and sign in with your Google account.

Step 2: Remove the old thermostat

Turn off the power and remove your old thermostat. The Nest app shows you exactly how to do this for your specific situation. Write down which wires are on which terminals.

The Nest thermostat comes with a Heat Link that is installed at your central heating boiler. It communicates wirelessly with the thermostat. Follow the instructions to connect the Heat Link correctly.

Step 4: Mount the thermostat

Choose a suitable spot for the thermostat. It should be a place where the temperature is representative of your home, so not in the sun or near a heat source. Attach the base to the wall and click the thermostat onto it.

Step 5: Connect to Wi-Fi and configure

Follow the steps on the thermostat's screen to connect to your Wi-Fi network. After that, you can adjust all settings and create schedules in the Google Home app.

Other smart thermostats

Besides Tado and Nest, there are other good smart thermostats on the market.

Honeywell Home

Honeywell offers several smart thermostats, including the Lyric and the T6. The installation works in a similar way: download the Honeywell Home app, replace your old thermostat and follow the configuration steps in the app.

Netatmo

The Netatmo thermostat has an elegant design and works with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Installation is easy with the Netatmo Energy app.

Anna by Plugwise

Anna is a Dutch smart thermostat developed specifically for the Dutch market. The thermostat works with almost all central heating boilers and heat pumps and is easy to install.

Tips for getting the most out of it

After the installation, you naturally want to get the most out of your smart thermostat. Here are a few tips.

Use schedules

Set up a weekly schedule that fits your daily routine. Most apps make this very easy. That way the heating is automatically turned down when you go to bed or leave for work.

Use geofencing

Almost all smart thermostats have a feature that detects when you leave home or come back based on your phone's location. Turn on this feature for maximum comfort and energy savings.

Integrate it with your smart home

Connect your thermostat to Google Home, Amazon Alexa or Apple HomeKit. That way you can adjust the temperature with your voice and include the thermostat in automations.

Analyze your energy use

Most apps show statistics about your heating habits and energy use. Check them regularly to see where you can still save.

Troubleshooting common problems

Sometimes the installation or daily use does not go entirely smoothly. Here are solutions to common problems.

The thermostat won't connect to Wi-Fi

Check that you entered the correct password. Make sure the thermostat is within range of your router. Some thermostats only work on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, not on 5 GHz.

The heating does not respond

Check that all wires are connected correctly. See whether the central heating boiler is on and working properly. Consult the manual or contact customer service.

The app is not working properly

Make sure you have installed the latest version of the app. Try closing the app and opening it again. If that does not help, delete the app and install it again.

Frequently asked questions

Can I install a smart thermostat myself?

Yes, most smart thermostats are designed for self-installation. The apps guide you through the process step by step. If you are not comfortable working with wiring, you can always call in an installer.

How much can I save with a smart thermostat?

The savings differ per situation, but on average you can count on saving 10 to 30 percent on your heating costs. This depends on your current heating habits and how well you use the smart features.

Does a smart thermostat also work with underfloor heating?

Yes, many smart thermostats are suitable for underfloor heating. Always check compatibility before you buy a thermostat, though, because not every model works with every type of underfloor heating.

Do I need internet for a smart thermostat?

You need internet for the smart features, such as control through the app and automatic adjustments. The basic heating function of most thermostats also works without internet, but then you miss out on a lot of handy features.

Conclusion

Setting up a smart thermostat is easier than you might think. With the clear instructions in the apps from Tado, Nest and other brands, you can often do the installation yourself. Once it is installed, you enjoy more comfort, lower energy bills and the ability to control your heating from anywhere. Take the time to discover all the features and set up the thermostat to your personal preferences.

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