Energy costs are one of the biggest ongoing expenses for Airbnb hosts, especially in the UK where heating is essential for much of the year. Smart thermostats have become an increasingly popular solution, allowing hosts to control heating remotely, reduce wasted energy, and improve guest comfort at the same time.
In this guide, we compare the top smart thermostats used in Airbnb and short-term rental properties, focusing on energy savings, ease of use, guest experience, and overall value for hosts.
Why Smart Thermostats Matter for Airbnb Hosts
Unlike long-term rentals, Airbnb properties face unique heating challenges. Guests often leave heating on while out, change settings without concern for energy costs, or misunderstand manual systems.
Smart thermostats help solve these issues by offering:
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Remote temperature control
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Scheduled heating based on bookings
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Reduced energy waste during vacant periods
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Better comfort without guest confusion
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Potential insurance and compliance benefits
For hosts managing multiple properties, the energy savings can be significant over time.
1. Google Nest Thermostat
Overview
Google Nest is one of the most widely recognised smart thermostats and is popular among UK Airbnb hosts for its automation and ease of use.
Key Features
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Learns heating patterns over time
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Remote control via mobile app
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Eco mode when the property is empty
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Integration with Google Home and smart sensors
Energy Savings
Many hosts report heating cost reductions of 10–15 percent annually, particularly when paired with vacancy scheduling.
Considerations for Hosts
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Learning mode may need adjustment for short-stay guests
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Higher upfront cost compared to basic smart thermostats
Best For
Hosts who want automated energy savings with minimal manual input.
2. Hive Active Heating
Overview
Hive is a UK-focused smart thermostat backed by British Gas and is well suited to Airbnb properties across the UK.
Key Features
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Simple mobile control
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Scheduling based on check-in and check-out
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Easy temperature overrides
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Strong UK boiler compatibility
Energy Savings
Hosts typically see energy savings of around 8–12 percent, especially when used with set schedules.
Considerations for Hosts
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Fewer advanced automation features than Nest
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No built-in occupancy detection
Best For
UK hosts looking for reliability, ease of use, and strong local support.
3. Tado Smart Thermostat
Overview
Tado is a favourite among energy-conscious Airbnb hosts thanks to its geofencing and energy-focused features.
Key Features
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Geofencing to reduce heating when guests leave
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Weather-based temperature adjustments
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Smart radiator valve support
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Clear energy usage reports
Energy Savings
Hosts report some of the highest savings in this category, often between 15–25 percent depending on property size and usage.
Considerations for Hosts
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Requires app permissions for full functionality
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Setup can be more technical
Best For
Hosts focused on maximising energy efficiency and controlling room-by-room heating.
4. Drayton Wiser
Overview
Drayton Wiser offers strong value for hosts wanting room-specific control without high costs.
Key Features
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Zoned heating control
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Individual room scheduling
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Smart radiator integration
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UK-friendly installation
Energy Savings
Savings range from 10–20 percent depending on zoning usage and guest behaviour.
Considerations for Hosts
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App interface is less polished
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Initial setup may take longer
Best For
Larger Airbnb homes and serviced apartments with multiple bedrooms.
5. Honeywell Home Evohome
Overview
Evohome is a premium system designed for detailed heating control, often used in larger or higher-end Airbnb properties.
Key Features
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Full multi-zone heating control
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Advanced scheduling
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Reliable performance for large homes
Energy Savings
Energy savings typically fall between 12–18 percent, with higher savings in multi-zone setups.
Considerations for Hosts
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Higher installation cost
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May be unnecessary for smaller properties
Best For
Luxury listings, large homes, and professional operators.
Energy Savings Comparison
| Thermostat | Typical Energy Savings | Ease of Use | Best Property Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Nest | 10–15% | High | Flats, small homes |
| Hive | 8–12% | Very High | UK city properties |
| Tado | 15–25% | Medium | Energy-focused hosts |
| Drayton Wiser | 10–20% | Medium | Multi-bed homes |
| Evohome | 12–18% | Medium | Large or luxury homes |
What Airbnb Hosts Should Consider Before Installing
Before choosing a smart thermostat, hosts should evaluate:
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Compatibility with existing boilers
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Guest ease of use and clarity
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Ability to control remotely between bookings
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Zoning needs for larger properties
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Budget versus long-term energy savings
Clear guest instructions and pre-set temperature limits can prevent misuse while maintaining comfort.
Final Thoughts
Smart thermostats are no longer a luxury feature for Airbnb properties — they are quickly becoming a practical necessity. With rising energy costs and increasing guest expectations, the right thermostat can protect profit margins while improving guest experience.
Whether you prefer full automation, detailed room control, or a simple UK-friendly system, there is a smart thermostat suited to every hosting style. Over time, the energy savings alone often justify the investment.
