Collection: Tado TRV Review: Smart Thermostat That Saves Money & Is Funny
Tado TRV: The Smart Thermostat That's Actually Smart (and Funny)
Hey there, tech-loving friends! Today, we're diving into the world of smart home heating with the Tado TRV, a little gadget that promises to save you money and keep you cozy. But before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's be real: smart home stuff can be a bit of a mixed bag. You've got your Alexa that keeps ordering you cat food, your robot vacuum that gets stuck in the corner, and your smart lights that turn on when you're trying to watch a scary movie. So, does the Tado TRV live up to the hype, or is it just another tech gadget destined for the "useless junk drawer"? Let's find out!
The Tado TRV: A Quick Overview
The Tado TRV is a smart thermostat valve that replaces your old, boring radiator valves. It's basically a little brain for your heating system, allowing you to control your home's temperature from your phone, no matter where you are. You can set schedules, adjust the temperature on the fly, and even get notifications if your heating system is acting up. Sounds pretty cool, right? But here's the thing: it's not just about the tech. It's about the experience. And trust me, the Tado TRV delivers.
The Good, the Bad, and the Hilarious
The Good
- Easy Installation: Okay, let's be honest, I'm not exactly a DIY whiz. But even I managed to install these things without calling a plumber. The instructions are clear, and the process is pretty straightforward. You just need a screwdriver and a little bit of patience. (And maybe a glass of wine.)
- Sleek Design: These things are actually pretty stylish. They come in white or black, so they blend in with your decor. And they're small and compact, so they don't look bulky on your radiators. No more ugly, clunky thermostats!
- Smart Features: The Tado app is super user-friendly. You can set schedules, adjust the temperature, and even get notifications if your heating system is acting up. Plus, it has some pretty cool features like geofencing, which automatically adjusts the temperature based on your location. So, you can come home to a warm house without having to worry about turning the heating on.
- Energy Savings: This is where the Tado TRV really shines. By optimizing your heating schedule and adjusting the temperature based on your needs, you can save a significant amount of energy and money. And who doesn't love saving money? (Especially when it comes to heating bills.)
The Bad
- Price: Let's be real, these things aren't cheap. You're looking at around £60 per valve, and you'll need one for each radiator you want to control. So, if you have a big house, it can add up quickly. But hey, think of it as an investment in your comfort and your wallet.
- Compatibility: The Tado TRV is compatible with most standard heating systems, but it's always a good idea to check the compatibility list before you buy. You don't want to end up with a bunch of fancy valves that don't work with your system.
The Hilarious
- My Cat's New Favorite Toy: Okay, this isn't really a bad thing, but it's definitely funny. My cat loves to bat at the Tado TRV. I think he's trying to turn the heating up, but I'm not sure he's quite figured out how it works yet. (Maybe I should get him a cat-sized Tado TRV?)
- My Neighbor's Jealousy: Ever since I installed the Tado TRV, my neighbor has been asking me all sorts of questions about it. I think he's secretly jealous that I have a smart home and he doesn't. (Maybe I should offer him a demo?)
The Verdict: Is the Tado TRV Worth It?
In a nutshell, yes! The Tado TRV is a fantastic smart home gadget that can save you money, keep you comfortable, and even provide some laughs along the way. It's not perfect, but it's definitely worth considering if you're looking to upgrade your heating system. Just be prepared to answer a lot of questions from your neighbors.
Tado TRV: Basic vs Smart
Now, you might be wondering about the difference between the Tado TRV Basic and the Tado TRV Smart. The Basic version is a bit cheaper, but it doesn't have all the fancy features of the Smart version, like geofencing and automatic scheduling. If you're on a budget, the Basic version is a good option, but if you want the full smart home experience, the Smart version is definitely worth the extra money.
Tado Smart TRV 4 Pack
For those of you with multiple radiators, the Tado Smart TRV 4 Pack is a great deal. You get four valves for a discounted price, which can save you a lot of money compared to buying them individually. Just make sure your heating system can handle four smart valves before you buy.
Tado Smart TRV Installation
Installing the Tado TRV is pretty easy, but if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always hire a professional. There are plenty of resources available online that can help you with the installation process, including videos and step-by-step instructions. Just make sure to turn off your heating system before you start working on the valves.
Final Thoughts
The Tado TRV is a great way to upgrade your heating system and make it smarter. It's easy to install, user-friendly, and can save you money on your energy bills. Plus, it's just plain fun to use. So, if you're looking for a smart home gadget that actually delivers, the Tado TRV is definitely worth checking out.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go play with my cat and see if he's learned how to use the Tado TRV yet. Wish me luck!
Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with Tado in any way. This review is based on my personal experience with the product.