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Published: 25 April 2025
Also featured in: Top 5 Smart Thermostats
Overview
The Hive Active Heating and Hot Water Thermostat offers a simple yet effective solution for UK homeowners looking to automate and streamline their home heating. With support for hot water scheduling, geolocation reminders, and integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, Hive is one of the most accessible and practical thermostats in 2025.
This review covers Hive’s key features, real-world use, pros and cons, and how it compares with other top smart thermostats on the UK market.
Key Features
- ✅ Smart heating and hot water scheduling
- ✅ Remote control via app, tablet, or web
- ✅ Voice assistant compatibility (Alexa, Google, Siri)
- ✅ Geolocation alerts and Frost Protection
- ✅ Multi-zone control options (with extra hardware)
- ✅ Sleek interface and user-friendly design
Hive’s appeal lies in its simplicity and reliability, giving users smart features without overwhelming setup or complexity. It’s perfect for busy families and professionals alike.
Performance in Real-World Use
The Hive app is easy to navigate and responsive. You can set heating and hot water schedules with precision or activate heating boosts from your phone. Notifications alert you if you leave the house with heating still on, and Frost Protection prevents pipes from freezing in winter.
Users also benefit from voice control, allowing you to adjust temperature settings hands-free. Overall, Hive integrates well with existing smart ecosystems and proves dependable over time.
Everyday Use Cases for UK Homes
- 🛁 Hot water on demand: Use the app to heat water before your morning shower.
- 📱 Remote access: Adjust your heating from work or while on holiday.
- 📍 Geolocation reminders: Receive alerts if the heating is left on when you leave home.
- ❄️ Frost Protection: Prevent frozen pipes automatically during cold spells.
- 🗣️ Voice control: Change temperature via Alexa or Google without touching the app.
Hive is especially useful for families and shift workers, with flexible controls that suit irregular routines and multi-person households.
Hive vs. Other Smart Thermostats
- 💧 vs. tado°: tado° offers more automation and analytics, but Hive supports hot water and has a simpler interface.
- 🧠 vs. Nest: Nest learns from habits; Hive relies on direct scheduling and reminders — better for users who want control.
- 📡 vs. Netatmo: Netatmo has a more modern design; Hive has stronger support in the UK and more installer availability.
- 💰 vs. Drayton Wiser: Wiser is better for zoned radiator control; Hive is more balanced for whole-home heating + water.
Hive remains a strong mid-range option offering solid reliability, flexibility, and local support for UK households.
Pros
- Control heating and hot water from anywhere
- Simple, reliable scheduling via app
- Voice assistant support (Alexa, Google, Siri)
- Geolocation and Frost Protection features
- Optional multi-zone heating control
Cons
- Requires professional installation
- Some features locked behind Hive Heating Plus subscription
- Less automation and energy analytics than tado°
Final Verdict
The Hive Active Heating and Hot Water Thermostat is a highly practical and polished solution for managing your home’s heating and hot water usage in 2025. It’s ideal for UK homes looking to gain smart control without technical complexity. With its combination of features, ease of use, and strong support, Hive remains one of the most trusted names in the smart thermostat market.
★★★★☆ (4.6/5)