HVAC Controls - Other

Upgrade Your Comfort: A Practical Guide to HVAC Controls and Where to Buy Them in the UK

Why upgrading HVAC controls is worth your time

Think of HVAC controls as the brain of your heating and cooling system. Swap an old mechanical thermostat for a modern control and you can expect better comfort, less wasted energy, and a smarter experience. It’s not just about fancy touchscreens — it’s about making your home react to your life, not the other way around. Whether you’ve got a compact flat or a three-story house, better controls can cut down on cold corners and overheated rooms without you having to babysit the dial.

What types of HVAC controls should you consider?

There’s more to HVAC controls than a thermostat on the wall. From tiny sensors tucked behind a bookshelf to comprehensive zone controllers that manage multiple radiators, the right mix depends on your home and how hands-on you want to be. Below I break down the main types so you can spot what fits your situation.

Smart thermostats

Smart thermostats like Nest, Hive, and Tado learn your routine, let you adjust settings from your phone, and often link into voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. They’re perfect if you want automation and remote control. Expect features such as scheduling, geofencing, and energy reports that show how much you’re saving in real time.

Temperature and humidity sensors

Sensors are the little helpers that make smart systems accurate. Products such as the Click Smart Temperature And Humidity Sensor (often available through suppliers like Expert Electrical) measure conditions in specific rooms so your system can react precisely. Want a warm living room and a cool bedroom without fighting over the thermostat? Sensors make zoning reliable.

Zone controllers and motorized valves

Zone control lets you split your home into areas with independent temperatures. If you have unused rooms or a loft that overheats, adding zone valves and a controller can save energy by only heating occupied spaces. These systems range from simple multi-thermostat setups to sophisticated panels that manage several heating circuits.

Where to buy HVAC controls in the UK

You’ve got options when it comes to buying: trade wholesalers, DIY chains, online marketplaces, and specialist retailers. If you want professional-grade kit at trade prices, Expert Electrical is one place to check — they often stock Click-branded sensors and controls. On the DIY side, Screwfix and B&Q carry a selection of thermostats, zone valves, and basic sensors. For a broader range of smart devices, Amazon and specialist online stores bring in brands like Nest, Tado, and Honeywell.

Expert Electrical and Click products

Expert Electrical is known for supplying electrical contractors and savvy DIYers. They commonly stock the Click product line, including the Click Smart Temperature And Humidity Sensor, which pairs well with Click’s smart relay and thermostat systems. If you’re after trade-quality parts that installers like to use, this type of supplier is worth a look.

Screwfix, Toolstation and high-street chains

Screwfix and Toolstation are great for quick buys and local pickup. You’ll find basic thermostats, thermostatic radiator valves, and some smart models. B&Q and Wickes usually carry user-friendly smart thermostats aimed at homeowners. For competitive prices and immediate availability, these shops are convenient.

Choosing the right sensor: what really matters

When you’re picking a sensor, don’t get dazzled by tiny specs — focus on practical features. Accuracy, wireless range, battery life, and compatibility with your thermostat or hub are the big four. A typical good sensor will measure temperatures from roughly 32°F to 122°F and humidity from 20% to 90%. Battery life of 12 months or more is ideal, and a reliable wireless range of at least 30 ft will suit most homes.

Compatibility with hubs and thermostats

Check whether the sensor talks the same language as your system. Popular protocols include Wi‑Fi, Zigbee, and Z‑Wave. Some brands lock you into their ecosystem — for instance, Click sensors are designed to work with Click relays and controllers. If you already use a smart hub like Samsung SmartThings or a voice assistant, confirm compatibility before you buy.

Accuracy and placement

Accuracy usually matters more than a sleek look. Most consumer sensors claim ±1°F accuracy which is fine for everyday use. Where you put the sensor matters: avoid placing it next to radiators, in direct sunlight, or right above cooking appliances. Mount sensors about 3 ft to 5 ft off the floor on an interior wall for readings that reflect the living zone, not the attic or the drafty hallway.

Installation: DIY or pro — how to decide

If you’re comfortable with a screwdriver, basic wiring, and following clear instructions, many smart devices are DIY-friendly. A battery-powered sensor takes minutes to mount. Hardwired thermostats and motorized zone valves can be more complicated and may require working with electrical mains or gas systems — and that’s where calling a pro is wise. If you’re in doubt, a qualified installer usually gets the job done faster and safer.

Quick DIY checklist

Before you start, switch off power at the circuit breaker, take photos of the existing wiring, and read the manual from top to bottom. Make sure you have basic tools: a small flathead and Phillips screwdriver, a voltage tester, and a ladder if you’re reaching high spots. Put a sticky note on the wall with current wiring labels — it’ll save you a headache later.

Integrating controls with your smart home

Want voice control, automations, or data logging? Integration is where things get fun. Most thermostats and sensors work with Alexa or Google Assistant, and many also link to home automation platforms like Home Assistant. If you’ve invested in an ecosystem — for instance, Nest or Apple HomeKit — choose controls and sensors that play nicely with it to avoid fragmentation.

Mixing brands — when it’s okay

You can mix brands if they follow common standards. Wi‑Fi devices are usually easier to pair across ecosystems, while Zigbee and Z‑Wave devices need a compatible hub. For example, a Click sensor might pair with a Click thermostat, while a Tado thermostat can be added to a Google Home setup. Decide whether simplicity (single brand) or flexibility (mixed setup) is more important to you.

How better controls help you save energy and money

Controls don’t save energy by themselves — your habits do — but smart tech makes it much easier to adopt energy-saving habits. Automatic setbacks, better zoning, and accurate sensing can reduce heating bills by around 10% to 20% in many homes. For example, lowering your heating by 3°F during the day and overnight can cut use significantly without leaving you uncomfortably cold.

Practical thermostat settings

Try setting the thermostat to about 68°F during the day when you’re home and 62°F at night or when you’re out. These numbers aren’t rules — they’re starting points. Smart systems can handle gradual changes, so you won’t notice a sudden chill when your schedule tells the boiler to back off.

Common problems and how to fix them

If your system isn’t behaving, it’s usually one of a few common issues: dead batteries, poor wireless range, conflicting schedules between multiple thermostats, or outdated firmware. Start with the simple fixes: swap batteries, move the sensor to a better location, and update device software. If wiring seems wrong or the boiler is misfiring, switch off and call a professional.

Connectivity troubleshooting

Dropouts are often about signal interference or range. Try moving the hub or Wi‑Fi router closer to the thermostat temporarily to test. Walls and large appliances can reduce range by 10–30 ft, so sometimes a small repositioning solves the problem. Mesh Wi‑Fi nodes or Zigbee repeaters can extend coverage in larger homes.

Price guide — what to expect to pay

Prices vary by complexity and brand. A basic programmable thermostat starts around £30, smart thermostats typically range from £70 to £250 depending on features, and dedicated wireless temperature and humidity sensors like the Click Smart unit can be roughly £20 to £80. Zone control kits with multiple valves and a central controller can cost several hundred pounds, especially when installed by a tradesperson. Think of the purchase as an investment — the right setup can pay back over a few years in energy savings and comfort.

Brands and products to watch in the UK

Keep an eye out for a handful of reliable brands: Honeywell (robust and widely supported), Nest (easy to use and integrates well with Google), Tado (great for multi-zone radiator setups), Hive (user-friendly and often available through energy suppliers), Salus and Danfoss (more trade-focused controls), and Click (noted for value in retrofit and commercial-style systems). Depending on whether you want DIY simplicity or pro-level control, one of these will likely fit.

Where to source each brand

Trade suppliers like Expert Electrical and Plumbase stock trade brands and Click products. Retail chains and online marketplaces stock consumer smart thermostats: Screwfix, B&Q, Wickes for hardware; Amazon UK and manufacturer websites for a wide selection. If you prefer professional installation, many installers source parts direct from wholesalers for better pricing.

Future-proofing your HVAC control choices

If you can, invest in devices that support common smart protocols and receive firmware updates. Open standards like Zigbee or Wi‑Fi help you avoid being locked into a single brand so you can expand or upgrade over time. Also consider whether battery-powered sensors will be easy to maintain — ideally choose units with at least a year of battery life or rechargeable options.

Conclusion

Upgrading HVAC controls is one of the most practical home improvements you can make. Whether you pick a simple smart thermostat, add temperature and humidity sensors like the Click Smart device, or invest in full zone control, you’ll gain comfort, control, and potential savings. Start by deciding how automated you want your home to be, check compatibility with existing systems, and shop from reputable UK suppliers — Expert Electrical for trade-grade Click products or high-street and online retailers for mainstream smart thermostats. With the right mix of devices and thoughtful setup, your heating and cooling will finally match the way you live.