If your thermostat is playing up, it's the perfect time to think about investing in a replacement. But before you dive in, it makes sense to do a little research to find out what you can expect to pay for thermostat replacement costs. If you are going for something basic, you will spend a lot less than if you went for a smart top-end model.
Introducing a replacement thermostat is one of the most economical ways to use central heating. It will work more efficiently and smarter than your old one. Here we delve into the different types available, what’s a good choice and how much you can expect to pay to replace and install.
Why replace your thermostat?
Before you think about replacement costs, you need to consider why you need to replace your current thermostat and the benefits it will bring. Upgrading from a basic to a smart thermostat is common practice.
James Clark, technical training manager at Wiser, reveals why, “Smart thermostats are designed to make your heating system as efficient as possible by controlling the boiler more intelligently through load compensation and reducing energy wastage.”
He adds, “I’d advise upgrading from a basic thermostat to a smart thermostat system if you’re looking for better control over your heating and want to save money on your energy bills.
James Clark, training manager at Wiser, helps customers and professionals with practical tips and advice, making heating controls and energy management simple and accessible.
Jamie is a highly experienced manager with over 24 years of expertise in the plumbing and heating sector, having worked for both national and regional merchants. He now brings his knowledge to Build & Plumb, an online retailer, supplying top-quality products for DIYers, renovators, and trade professionals alike
Common types of thermostats and their costs
You will typically find three different types of heating thermostats in the home. Here we look at how they work and typical costs.
Manual thermostats
These are the most basic types of thermostat found in the home. They are also known as non-programmable thermostats. Jamie Heath, plumbing and heating expert from Build & Plumb, explains how they work, “These thermostats have an internal NTC sensor that adjusts automatically to its surrounding area to comfortably control your heating. Typically, these thermostats have a central dial that can be turned to change the temperature.”
As basic models, they are also typically the cheapest. Heath adds, “On average, these thermostats cost between £20 to £50 depending on the model and manufacturer”.
Shop manual thermostats
A simple but attractive modern style makes this thermostat ideal for locating in any living space. Easy to install and use.
A thermostatic radiator valve that allows you to take control of the temperature of individual radiators.
A simple room thermostat that is designed to provide automatic on/off control for a gas boiler.
Programmable thermostats
These are a step up from manual thermostats and are common in many homes. Heath explains more, “Programmable thermostats are similar to non-programmable thermostats, but the main difference is that they can schedule a set of heating programs.
He adds, “This allows you to set a timer for when you want your heating to automatically turn on or off. The thermostat will then automatically turn off when your home has reached the desired temperature.” Finally, he says, “Programmable thermostats roughly cost between £30 to £70 on average”.
Shop programmable thermostats
For timed control of room temperature in conjunction with Homematic IP underfloor heating actuators or Homematic IP radiator thermostats.
A high-quality wall-mounted thermostat for intelligent time-dependent control of your heating in the family home.
A wireless thermostat that offers 7-day programming and the ability to copy days to simplify the programming process.
Smart thermostats
Smart thermostats are the most expensive and advanced forms of thermostats available. Heath says, “They allow you to control your heating remotely from any location, using your smartphone, so you can turn the heating on and off, control temperatures or set schedules.”
Heath continues, “Smart thermostats also offer the best energy efficiency due to their advanced temperature controls, so they have the highest upfront costs. Typically, you can expect to pay from £100 to £250 for a smart thermostat.”
But they do have a downside, as Heath shares, “Although smart thermostats provide cost-saving benefits, savings are not automatic; users need to set schedules to reduce costs over time.” He adds, “This option is ideal for homes with irregular occupancy, second homes, frequent holidays, rental properties, or even those simply just warming up their home in winter”.
Shop smart thermostats
Smart easy to use thermostat. Control it with your voice or from your phone and give your heating a quick boost.
Offers flexible 5+2 programming, for different temperatures for weekdays and weekends, voice control and is compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home.
Costs to replace a thermostat
The cost to replace a thermostat will depend on the type of thermostat you currently have, the time required to install it, and the cost of the replacement, as Heath points out, “The cost of replacing a thermostat can vary depending on the type of thermostat you have and the labour requirements needed for installation.”
He adds, “For instance, a standard manual thermostat costs an average of £20 to £50, whereas a smart thermostat can cost up to £250.” Clark shares the price for Wiser kits: “The Wiser Smart Thermostat Kits range from £195 to £352 depending on the model and number of channels required, giving homeowners a flexible starting point that can be expanded over time with the addition of a wide range of add-ons offering smart home functionality.”
Beyond the cost of the thermostat, there are installations to consider. Heath says, “Typically, installation of a thermostat costs an average of £50 to £80, so when combined with the material costs, you can be looking to pay from £195 to £330 for a smart thermostat installation”
FAQs
Q. How long does it take to replace a thermostat?
If you are looking to replace a thermostat, it’s a quick job that will be completed in less than a day. Heath shares how long the average thermostat replacement takes: “A standard thermostat replacement takes around 1 to 2 hours.” He adds, “However, smart thermostats can take up to 3 hours due to additional steps like connecting to wifi, the complexity of the wiring and so on”.
Q. Can a new thermostat save money on my energy bills?
Yes, it can, but to achieve worthwhile savings, you should consider investing in a smart thermostat. Heath explains why, “Smart thermostats can be controlled remotely from a smartphone or tablet, so you can adjust your heating from anywhere. This works well for individuals who are out at work all day or travel frequently.”
But this isn’t the only cost saver continues Heath, “They can automatically adjust to your routine so your heating and hot water is turned off when not in use, reducing energy consumption and the cost of bills.”
Keeping your home warm is essential in the winter. Check out our guide on heating a house extension, choosing an alternative heat emitter (rather than the common options) and what the boiler upgrade scheme can mean for you.
