Stairs / Hallway

• keeping warm
• controlling the heating

A smart thermostat is a single device that controls the heating system. It is like a traditional thermostat but also connects to Wi-Fi and can control the heating system remotely, usually through an app on a phone, tablet, or computer. They can be used to turn the heating on or off, adjust the temperature, and set schedules - even when not in the house where the heating system is.

They often use clever features like:

• Learning daily routine and adjust the heating to fit these.
• Adjusting temperature based on the weather forecast. 
• Set schedules and adjust temperature remotely via an app or voice assistant. Many work with smart speakers.

Smart thermostats are ideal for people who want basic remote control and automation without installing a new heating system. 

These are available from most shops which sell ordinary thermostats or you can search for 'smart heating controls' on the internet. 

• Energy Savings: Some smart thermostats can help reduce energy consumption by learning daily routine in the home and adjusting the temperature accordingly. Some can use GPS on a phone to detect if someone is at home and adjust the heating based on this. This can lead to significant savings on energy bills and reduce impact on the environment. 
• Remote Access: The temperature can be controlled from anywhere using an app, providing convenience and flexibility. This can also be used to help someone else to manage their heating even when not with them. For example, a person with dementia who lives alone and can no longer control the heating could be supported by a family member or friend who has the app installed on their phone to ensure their house is the correct temperature for them. 
• Increased independence: If someone cannot get to the heating controls to adjust them for example because of difficulty walking then a smart thermostat might be a way they can control their heating either through an app or voice control through a smart speaker.
• Customisable Schedules: These devices allow daily routines to be set up, ensuring the correct temperature at the right time for the people who live in the house where it's installed.
• Integration with Smart Home Systems: Some smart thermostats can integrate with other smart home  devices, such as voice assistants and security systems.

• Initial Cost: Smart thermostats can be more expensive than traditional ones. However, the energy savings over time can offset the initial investment.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the smart thermostat is compatible with the existing heating system. Some systems may require additional components or professional installation.
• Ease of use: While many smart thermostats are user-friendly, they might still require some new skills which might be difficult for people who are new to technology.
• Dependence on Wi-Fi: Smart thermostats rely on a stable internet connection for remote access and updates. If your Wi-Fi is unreliable, it could affect the thermostat’s performance.
• Installation: A professional is often needed to install this type of device as there may be wiring involved, check this when purchasing and check if installation is included in the price if not factor this into the cost. There are also smart heating systems which provide more functions but require expert installation and replacement of the heating system. 
• Privacy and Security: As with any connected device think about where your data will be stored and how it will be used. Make sure to choose a reputable brand and keep the software updated to protect your information.

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/smart-thermostats-explained/