Thermostat placement: Why it matters (and where to put yours)

A thermostat might seem simple... but where you place it can make a big difference to how your heating performs.

If it’s in the wrong spot, it can misread the temperature. That means rooms feel too hot or too cold, heating runs longer than needed, and energy bills creep up.

Why placement matters

Your thermostat controls your heating based on the temperature around it.

If that reading is inaccurate, you’ll likely see:
- Inconsistent room temperatures
- Wasted energy
- More manual adjustments
- Frustrated tenants or occupants

Getting the placement right helps your system run efficiently... and keeps everyone comfortable.

Where to place your thermostat

For the best results, your thermostat should be:
- On an internal wall
- Around 1.2–1.5m from the floor
- In a central, regularly used area (like a hallway or living room)

This ensures it reflects the true temperature of the home.

Where to avoid

Keep thermostats away from:
- Direct sunlight
- Radiators or heat sources
- Kitchens
- Drafts (doors/windows)
- Furniture or curtains blocking airflow

These can all lead to false readings and poor heating performance.

Ideal for Landlords & HMOs

In shared properties, placement is even more important. A poorly positioned thermostat can lead to uneven heating and constant adjustments.

TIME:O:STAT thermostats are designed to simplify control and reduce misuse, but correct placement is what allows them to work at their best.