New HIVE customer

k_man

I think there may be some different interpretations of 'smart heating', but the standard definition of 'smart' is that it allows (not forces) control from a mobile device or computer.

Other features may or may not be included, e.g learning heating habits, heating in advance to reach desired temperature (useful if heatup time is slow), weather compensation, load compensation.
These are not compulsory, so a smart system can do everything you need it to @wild666, and nothing else if you want.

The main benefit, and cost saving (IMO), (aside from the convenience of control from a mobile/remote) compared to a traditional dial room thermostat, is the ability to have different temperatures for different times of day (smart TRVs take this a step further, but savings are minimal).

That said, heating controls don't have to be smart (based on my definition) to allow that.

[Deleted User]

Which has identified some of the ‘creative accounting’ methods used by manufacturers to claim savings:

https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/smart-thermostats-can-you-save-what-the-companies-claim-aPhUI1z1HPCX

sheramber

My heating is set to 6 degrees overnight- frost setting- and 18 degrees from 6'30am to 10pm

I am at home all day so if I feel cold I can boost the temperature as required.

If I was going to be out all day I would reduce the daytime temperature setting.

My heating has not been on for months as the temperature in the house has been higher than the temperatures set. 

Radiators in the various room are adjusted as required.