Drayton Wiser Smart Thermostat Kit
Smart Heating with No Monthly Fees – Is This the Best Budget Thermostat for UK Homes?
Overview: What Is the Drayton Wiser Kit 1?
The Drayton Wiser Smart Thermostat Kit 1 is a budget-friendly smart heating solution designed specifically for UK combi boilers. Developed by Drayton, a trusted brand under Schneider Electric, this system offers zoned control, OpenTherm compatibility, and full app-based scheduling — all with no subscription fees.
If you're looking for a plug-and-play smart thermostat that works with modern UK heating systems and offers true expandability, this model may be your perfect entry point.
Key Features at a Glance
- Intuitive Wiser Home app (iOS/Android) for remote scheduling and temperature control
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT
- Supports OpenTherm modulation for energy efficiency
- No subscription fees – all features included from day one
- DIY installation-friendly with standard UK backplate
- Expandable with smart radiator thermostats (TRVs) for multi-zone control
- Comfort & Eco modes that learn your home’s thermal profile over time
- Works with most combi and system boilers
- OTA firmware updates for security and performance
PROS & CONS
Pros
- Full-featured smart control without ongoing costs
- User-friendly mobile app with real-time updates
- Expandable system — TRVs cost around £50 each
- Works with OpenTherm-compatible boilers for better efficiency
- Strong UK brand heritage in heating control
- Ideal for Boiler Plus compliance
Cons
- Geofencing requires IFTTT setup (not native)
- TRVs lack temperature displays
- Basic plastic design may not suit all décor
- No hot water control unless you upgrade kits
- IFTTT and advanced scheduling require some learning curve
Real-World Performance: How It Feels to Use Wiser
Everyday Heating Control
The Wiser Home app delivers a smooth, intuitive experience. You can adjust room temperatures, apply preset modes like “Away” or “Eco,” and instantly override schedules with a Boost function. Users on Trustpilot frequently mention how "easy and stable" the app is, even for first-time smart home adopters.
“I installed this in under an hour and the app works perfectly with Alexa. Saved money from day one.” – Verified Amazon Review
Comfort & Eco Modes: Smarter Efficiency
Wiser learns how your home heats and cools. Comfort Mode ensures target temperatures are hit on time, while Eco Mode conserves energy by reducing overshoot. Combined with OpenTherm, this reduces inefficient on/off boiler cycling.
💡 Fact: replacing a standard room thermostat with an on/off load compensation thermostat cut gas use by ~10% (source)
Installation & Compatibility
Easy DIY Installation
Wiser is designed for UK DIYers. If your existing thermostat uses the standard backplate, the Heat Hub clicks straight in — no rewiring. The wireless thermostat pairs over RF and comes with a stand or wall-mount option.
Setup takes under an hour for most homeowners.
Boiler Compatibility
Fully Compatible Brands:
Ideal, Baxi, Vaillant (OpenTherm models), Worcester Bosch, Glow-worm
Not Compatible With:
Gravity-fed systems or proprietary controls (consult a heating engineer)
Tip: Check if your boiler supports OpenTherm for full modulation benefits.
Expandability: Multi-Zone Heating That Pays for Itself
Easy DIY Installation
You can add up to 16 heating zones using Drayton’s smart TRVs. These TRVs replace standard radiator valves and sync with the Wiser hub.
Unlike Hive or Tado, Wiser’s TRVs are £45–£50, making full-home expansion affordable.
Why It Matters: Heating only the rooms you're using helps lower bills and reduce wasted energy — especially useful in larger homes or households with irregular occupancy.
Energy Efficiency & Boiler Plus Compliance
Wiser exceeds the UK’s Boiler Plus standards, offering:
- Load compensation (via OpenTherm)
- Scheduling & remote control
- Smart features without paywalls
While Drayton doesn't publish exact savings, typical users report noticeable efficiency gains. Real results depend on usage patterns and home insulation.
Wiser vs Competitors
Who Should Buy the Drayton Wiser Kit 1?
Best for:
- UK homeowners with combi boilers seeking smart control
- DIYers wanting plug-and-play setup
- Budget-conscious families avoiding monthly fees
- Landlords seeking Boiler Plus compliance
- First-time smart heating users needing room-by-room control
Not ideal for:
- Homes needing hot water control (consider Kit 2 or 3)
- Users wanting native geofencing (look at Tado)
Final Verdict: Is Wiser Worth It?
If you're looking for the best smart thermostat in the UK under £200, the Drayton Wiser Kit 1 delivers outstanding value. You get:
- No hidden costs
- UK-ready installation
- Expandable, zone-based control
- Real efficiency improvements via OpenTherm
For most UK homes with combi boilers, this thermostat offers a future-proof, budget-friendly route into smart heating.
🔗Learn more or buy the Wiser Kit 1 on Amazon .
See our roundup of the best smart thermostats in the UK .
Our Rating
We gave the Levoit Core Mini a 4.5 out of 5 based on performance, noise level, and value for money.