Choose your next step
You do not need to replace everything at once. Start with the problem you want to solve, write down the equipment you already own, and check the missing pieces before making a shopping list. This directory takes you from a question to the relevant SHUK tool and buying guide.
1 · Subscription-free security
Keep the features you need. Compare the whole cost.
Start with your requirements
Write down where you want recordings stored, how long you need to keep them, which alerts matter, and what you expect during an internet or power outage. For an existing system, add the exact model, current plan and next renewal date.
Then build your shortlist
- Compare video doorbells without a mandatory subscription.
- Compare security cameras, storage and required extras.
- Already paying for a plan? Use the keep-or-switch subscription-exit planner before replacing working equipment.
Your next decision: compare setups that meet the same requirements. A cheaper option is not equivalent if it loses a feature you rely on.
2 · UK heating and boiler compatibility
Identify the heating system before choosing a control.
Collect what you can safely identify
Note the exact boiler and thermostat models, any receiver, whether you have a hot-water cylinder, and how many heating zones there are. Use your paperwork and accessible labels; do not open a boiler or electrical enclosure to complete a checker.
Read the guide for your next decision
Your next decision: take the unresolved compatibility questions and required parts to an appropriately qualified installer for a site-specific check and quote. SHUK’s research is not installation approval or a promise of energy savings.
3 · Matter, Thread and local control
Find the missing role, not just another hub.
Map what you already have
List the exact devices, hubs and controllers you own, the app or platform you want to use, and the functions you want to keep. Record firmware or software versions where available, especially when different sources disagree.
Work through the connection choices
Your next decision: check the exact device-and-platform combination, including what needs the internet. Keep an unconfirmed feature marked as unconfirmed rather than treating a badge as a guarantee.
Go straight to a tool or the evidence
- Heating compatibility triage
Find documented conditions, exclusions and questions for your installer.
- 36-month ownership-cost calculator
Compare free/core and paid/comparable scenarios with your own dated prices.
- Matter and controller-role checker
Look up the device’s role and the equipment its route requires.
- Local-control and outage comparison
Inspect storage, plan requirements and the limits of the published outage evidence.
- Subscription-exit planner
Compare keeping or replacing equipment over the next 36 months, including prepaid time.
- Compatibility data and change logs
Download dated records, follow source links and see published corrections.
Make one complete budget before buying
Include hardware + required hub or storage + installation + 36-month subscription + mandatory consumables. Use the same billing basis across the options, date every price and keep unknown costs visible. The cost calculator is for a new ownership comparison; the exit planner is for the money you would still pay from now on.