After looking at the NEST (and a few other 'smart' thermostats), I decided to go with this less expensive option when Amazon emailed me a special one-day deal. Installation was a breeze and I've never installed a thermostat before even though I'm pretty handy and can figure most things out. Word of advice: take a few photos of the wiring set-up of your OLD t-stat BEFORE you start pulling apart the wires. This helped tremendously as there are several wires that I was unaware of. Luckily most of them matched up perfectly with the HIVE unit (even though some of them are labeled slightly different on the HIVE diagrams, ie: some might have an extra letter or there might be more than one spot for only one wire, don't worry. The main wires (especially the 'C' wire) will match up and that's the important one.)
After installing the hub (router) for the wireless setup (as instructed), it took a while to do a software update after connecting to my network. I let it do it's thing (also as instructed) then I went to install the t-stat. As I mentioned, installation was actually pretty easy. The old unit came off the wall quickly and simply. I pulled the wires through the hole on the new HIVE unit and used the enclosed screws to install it. There's also a handy 'level' built-in to the unit so you can level the stat (under the cover; it sits at the top of the frame mount). After mounting it, I installed the wires to where I thought they should go based on the HIVE diagram(s) and instructions. One note: in the HIVE manual, they include some handy small label stickers with letters so you can label your wires BEFORE you remove them from the old stat. DO IT! It will help immensely.
I have an android phone (LG g6) and installed the HIVE app and created an account. The only issue I had after installation was getting the unit to connect to the hub/router. Have patience: it took longer than expected but after about 30 minutes of me leaving it alone it finally connected. The wall unit will prompt you upon initial setup to use the manual controls to distinguish what type of furnace you have. If you're not sure, you can change it. (I know my type of unit, but if you're not sure, call your HVAC person that works on your unit and they'll tell you, OR....google the manufacturer/model number and look it up. You should also be able to call a local HVAC company and they can tell you over the phone if your unit is a heat pump, etc. by giving them the manufacturer and model number.
I was able to use the phone app almost immediately to control the stat (which was the entire reason for me buying this unit). It's been connected for several weeks now and is working perfectly. I'm happy with all facets of the system, from the style and appearance of the stat itself to the performance of the unit.
I don't have an Alexa or Google Home (yet) so I can't attest to the compatibility to those units, but I would recommend the HIVE to my family and friends as a less expensive alternative to the NEST system but one that seems to work equally as well (after also seeing the NEST in use at several friends' homes.)
| Brand | Hive |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Smart |
| Controller Type | Vera, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, iOS, Android |
| Special Feature | Dimmable |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Included Components | Hive Smart Thermostat, Hive Hub |
| Power Source | Ac/dc |
| Voltage | 230 Volts |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Display Type | Digital |
| Control Method | Voice |
| Connectivity Protocol | Wi-Fi |
| Style | Heating & Cooling Pack |
| Backlight | Yes |
| Wattage | 15 watts |
| Manufacturer | Hive |
| Part Number | US9000891 |
| Item Weight | 3.27 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 10.25 x 3.25 x 5.5 inches |
| Item model number | Heating & Cooling |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Special Features | Dimmable |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Warranty Description | 1 year limited manufacturer warranty. |
