Fixington

Hive Installation

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Installing a smart heating system like Hive is becoming increasingly popular in UK homes. A Hive installation allows you to control your heating and hot water conveniently via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This job is typically needed if you want to upgrade an old thermostat to a smart model, improve heating efficiency, or add features like scheduling and remote control.

Smart heating controls can help lower energy bills by ensuring your heating runs only when needed. They also offer greater convenience, especially if you’re away from home a lot or want to manage different rooms more precisely.

Because Hive systems connect to your existing boiler and wiring, the installation is usually carried out by a qualified electrician or heating engineer, ensuring everything is safe and compliant with UK regulations.

🔧 What the job involves

Hive installation involves fitting a smart thermostat and, often, one or more smart radiator valves to control individual radiators. The main steps include:

  • Removing your existing thermostat and wiring the Hive thermostat in its place.
  • Connecting the Hive Hub to your broadband router (usually via Wi-Fi).
  • Pairing any additional Hive devices, such as radiator valves or hot water controls, with the system.
  • Setting up and testing the system to ensure it communicates correctly with your boiler.
  • Explaining how to use the app and other control features.

Most Hive systems are compatible with combi boilers, system boilers, and some heat-only boilers, though the specific installation process can vary. The electrician will ensure connections meet UK electrical safety standards, particularly regarding the 230 V wiring and potential connections to boiler controls.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Enquiry and initial advice
    Contact an electrician or heating engineer who is experienced with Hive installations. They’ll ask about your current heating setup to check compatibility.

  2. Survey and quote
    A visit to your home is often needed to inspect your boiler, existing controls, and wiring. This helps the tradesperson provide an accurate quote and highlight any issues.

  3. Agree date and prepare
    Once you accept the quote, arrange a convenient date. Make sure your broadband router is easily accessible and your boiler manual is handy if available.

  4. Installation day
    The electrician will switch off power to the heating system, remove your old thermostat, wire and mount the Hive thermostat, and connect the Hive Hub to your internet. Additional devices will be installed and paired as needed.

  5. Testing and demonstration
    The installer will test the full system, set up your user app, and show you how to control heating schedules, zones, and adjust settings.

  6. Completion and paperwork
    You’ll receive any relevant certificates or manuals. The electrician may advise on warranty registration and ongoing maintenance.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Electrician or heating engineer time (typically 2–4 hours) — around £100 to £200 per hour.
  • Materials/parts: Hive thermostat, Hive Hub, radiator valves (if needed), wiring accessories — £150 to £350+ depending on system size.
  • Extras: Additional smart valves or wireless sensors.
  • Disposal: Removal of old thermostat and safe disposal of electrical waste — sometimes included in labour cost or £10–£30 extra.
  • Certification: No formal certificate is usually required for smart thermostat installation (not involving gas work), but a safe-electrics certificate (EICR) may be recommended if electrical systems are updated.

Example itemisation:

  • Labour (3 hours @ £150/hr): £450
  • Hive Thermostat + Hub: £200
  • Two Radiator Valves: £120
  • Disposal: £20
  • Total (ex VAT where applicable): £790

📊 What affects the price

  • Access and ease of wiring (walls to be chased or cables rerouted).
  • Compatibility with your boiler type and existing heating controls.
  • Number of smart radiator valves or other devices added.
  • Requirement for additional wiring or electrical upgrades.
  • Distance of property and call-out charges in your area.
  • Urgency or availability for installation (short notice may cost more).
  • Whether internet connectivity improvements are needed (Wi-Fi extenders).

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple replacement (thermostat only): 1 to 2 hours
  • Installation including 2–3 radiator valves: 3 to 4 hours
  • Complex setups involving multiple zones or older boilers: up to 6 hours or more

If additional electrical work or network improvements are required, this may extend the time and cost.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While Hive can be an appealing DIY upgrade, installing the thermostat involves working with mains electricity and boiler control circuits, which can be dangerous without proper training.

The UK’s Part P Building Regulations require that electrical work related to fixed wiring is done safely and, in many cases, must be notified to your local authority. Improper installation can risk injury, cause heating faults, or invalidate insurance.

Unless you are a competent electrician, it’s strongly recommended to hire a qualified professional. Many installers will provide a guarantee and ensure the system meets all applicable safety standards.

💰 Typical UK price range

Expect to pay between £400 and £900 for a Hive installation, depending on system complexity and location. This estimate usually includes materials and labour but confirm whether VAT is included by your installer (VAT is charged at 20% for most trades services).

Remember, additional smart valves or networking equipment will add to the total.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Ensure your broadband signal is strong where the Hive Hub will be placed.
  • Have your boiler’s make and model handy when discussing with your installer.
  • Ask your installer about any guarantees and how to register your Hive equipment warranty.
  • Keep all paperwork, manuals, and certificates together for future reference or if you sell your home.
  • Regularly update your Hive app for the latest features and security updates.
  • Schedule any boiler servicing separately with a Gas Safe registered engineer; Hive installation does not cover gas safety checks.

Installing a Hive system is a practical upgrade that makes heating simpler and more efficient. Using a qualified professional ensures a safe, reliable installation tailored to your home’s setup.