Install new heating controls or thermostat

⭐ Introduction

Installing new heating controls or a thermostat is an important step towards improving your home’s heating efficiency and comfort. Whether you want to replace an outdated thermostat, install a smart control system, or add zoning controls to better manage different areas of your home, updating your heating controls can help save energy and reduce bills.

You might need new heating controls if your current system is old, faulty, or incompatible with modern heating setups, such as a combi boiler or underfloor heating. Additionally, if you are upgrading your boiler or moving to renewable heating options, new controls might be necessary to optimise performance.

🔧 What the job involves

Heating engineers install and configure devices that regulate your heating system. This includes:

• Removing your old thermostat or control unit.
• Fitting the new thermostat or heating control panel in the most suitable location for effective temperature sensing.
• Connecting wiring to your boiler, radiators, or underfloor heating manifold, depending on your system.
• Setting up timers, thermostats, or smart controls so you can programme your heating to suit your daily routine.
• Testing the installation to ensure it operates correctly, switching the boiler and valves as needed.
• Providing guidance on how to use the new controls effectively.

The specific work varies depending on the type of controls (e.g., wired thermostat, wireless system, smart Wi-Fi thermostat) and the complexity of your heating installation.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

1. Initial enquiry
   You contact a Gas Safe registered heating engineer with details about your current heating system and what controls you want installed.

2. Survey and quote
   The engineer visits to assess your existing heating pipework, boiler compatibility, and wiring. They’ll then provide a written quote showing parts, labour, and any additional costs.

3. Booking the job
   Agree a date and time for the installation. The engineer will confirm what you need to prepare and any accessibility requirements.

4. Installation day
   The engineer disconnects your heating system safely, removes old controls, installs the new thermostat or control system, and connects wiring. They check boiler operation and adjust settings.

5. Demonstration
   The engineer shows you how to programme and use your new heating controls.

6. Completion and paperwork
   You receive any necessary certificates (such as Part L compliance certificates if your new controls impact energy efficiency) and documentation detailing the work done.

💷 Main costs to expect

• Labour: Typically £100 to £200 per hour depending on the location and engineer’s rates.
• Materials/parts:
  • Basic wired thermostat £40–£100
  • Wireless or smart thermostat £100–£250
  • Additional wiring or junction boxes £20–£50
• Extras:
  • Zoning valves for multi-zone heating £100+ each
  • Electrical upgrades (e.g., new wiring or consumer unit work)
• Disposal of old controls: Usually included, but check with installer.
• Certification: If applicable (e.g., Part L Building Regs compliance), expect £50 to £100 for certification paperwork.

Example:
Basic replacement of a wired thermostat might be around £250 including parts and labour.

📊 What affects the price

• Accessibility of wiring and boiler controls (hidden pipework or walls means more work)
• Type of heating controls (simple wired thermostat vs smart, multi-zone controls)
• Whether electrical or heating system upgrades are needed
• Compliance with UK regulations (some installations require certification)
• Any remedial works to fix faults revealed during installation
• Location (prices tend to be higher in London and the South East)
• Urgency of the job (short notice bookings may incur extra charges)

⏱ How long does it take?

• Simple thermostat replacement: 1–2 hours
• Installing wireless or smart controls: 2–4 hours
• Complex multi-zone systems: 4–6 hours or more
  Factors like complicated wiring, running cables through walls, or additional plumbing can extend the job.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

It’s generally best to hire a qualified heating engineer for installing heating controls, especially if they involve any connection to a gas boiler or mains electricity. Gas boilers must be serviced and maintained by Gas Safe registered engineers, and any electrical work should comply with Part P Building Regulations.

Simple battery-powered room thermostats that clip onto walls may be fitted by competent DIYers, but if wiring is involved, or smart controls are to be integrated with boilers, professional installation is safer and ensures compliance with legal requirements and warranty conditions.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect to pay approximately £200 to £600 for installing new heating controls or a thermostat, including parts, labour, and certification where required.
This is an estimate and prices vary widely depending on complexity and region. Prices quoted usually include VAT at 20%.

✅ Handy tips before you start

• Confirm your existing boiler and heating system compatibility with the controls you want.
• Choose an engineer who is Gas Safe registered and experienced with heating control installations.
• Ask about certifications or paperwork needed for your installation.
• Prepare clear access to your boiler, wiring, and radiator valves on the day of installation.
• Check whether your new controls come with manufacturer warranties and understand what aftercare or servicing they need.
• Keep all documentation and certificates safe—they may be important for future maintenance or home insurance.

Installing or upgrading your heating controls can make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient—just be sure to use a trained professional to do the job safely and correctly.