As the heating industry gears up for a ‘smart home’ revolution in years to come, new research from Worcester, Bosch Group suggests there is a significant level of interest in ‘connected’ products among UK homeowners.
In a survey carried out by Worcester, one in four owners of its flagship Wave control stated they were already planning the next purchase of internet-enabled products for their homes. What’s more, over 70% cited the ability to remotely operate their heating system as the main reason for their investment.
The news should come as no surprise to heating engineers, who have no doubt seen an increase in enthusiasm for remotely-controlled devices in recent years. However, the study revealed further areas of interest, suggesting that a Smart Home revolution really could be underway: smart lightbulbs appealed to around 60% of respondents; internet-connected security systems were of interest to 50%; and 30% of homeowners would even consider an oven that could be controlled from a mobile phone or tablet.
The research also highlighted the important role installers play in recommending smart heating controls. In light of the vast range of accessories available on the market, well over half of respondents had first heard about their device from a heating engineer – suggesting that despite a glut of online information, homeowners remain keen to source the opinion of respected tradesmen.
On the findings, Worcester’s Director of Technical Communication and Product Management, Martyn Bridges, commented: “There has been a huge increase in the coverage of topics such as smart homes and the Internet of Things within the media, and clearly this is filtering through to homeowners when it comes to the choices they make for their heating systems.
“With so many products on offer though, it is key that homeowners recognise the devices that are not just internet-connected, but which use this capacity to make our homes more comfortable and efficient. What is most encouraging is that installers remain a vital support in the decision-making process, meaning they can continue to help homeowners make the right choices when called upon.”
For more information about the Wave, or Worcester, Bosch Group’s full range of heating technologies, visit: www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/professional