What is it?
Intelligent temperature regulation device.
How will it change my life?
The interconnected home is nothing new. Reality television has long allowed us a peek behind the jewel-encrusted curtains at how the other half live: be it Ozzy Osbourne trying to control his lighting system with the TV remote or the Kardashian clan using a mobile phone to monitor their cavernous walk-in wardrobes.
Technology has advanced to such an extent that this genre of home gadgetry is no longer solely the domain of the rich and famous. It is now attainable to mere mortals like us without the need for specialist contractors to install and maintain.
The Nest Learning Thermostat is one such product. It intelligently monitors your environment to raise and lower the temperature as required without the endless tedious programming necessary in the past.
Good points?
Programmable boilers save money by only activating when you have instructed them to and so offer a huge benefit over always-on or off systems. The downside is they require a manual override or a complete re-programme should you want a blast of heat on those days when the great Scottish summer lets you down.
As the learning part of the device name indicates, the Nest Learning Thermostat can automatically adjust to your routines and adapt to ad-hoc situations such as day trips or holidays.
Installation is easy if you just want to replace an existing thermostat, but if you are unsure of the current configuration of your boiler then it can be installed with no additional charge.
Operation of the thermostat doesn't require much time investment and can be up and running within 30 minutes.
Bad points?
Although home automation is delivering functionality at lower costs, the Nest Learning Thermostat still requires a hefty outlay of cash.
Best for ...
Homeowners seeking a simple and effective upgrade to their heating control which is more economical and better for the environment.
Avoid if ...
You are the type of person who would rather don a jumper when cold weather starts to bite.
Score: 9/10, a considerable advance over other products.
Nest Learning Thermostat, £249 (nest.com)
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