Wondering how to connect new Hive Hub to existing thermostat? We’ve got you covered!
Fortunately, pairing up an old Hive thermostat with a Hive Hub of the newest series is absolutely possible.
All you have to do is complete some essential preparations to make the software setup as smooth as possible and establish a connection between the new hub and the old thermostat.
To connect an older type of Hive thermostat with a new Hive Hub, complete the basic hardware installation of the hub and update the Hive app to the latest version.
Let’s review the setup further!
Is Connecting New Hive Hub to Thermostat Possible?
Absolutely!
Replacing old Hive equipment has always been recommended by their customer support, as this keeps all your equipment in check.
If you had issues with the previous Hive Hub and just received the newer unit, connecting it to your older thermostat is undoubtedly straightforward.
New Hive Hub With Old Thermostat?
The hub should easily recognise the existing thermostat and establish a connection as long as the Hive mobile application is updated to the latest firmware version.
The hive app is used for managing the connectivity and settings of the entire central heating system at all times.
After connecting a particular device to the Hive system, it will appear under the “Devices” tab within the Hive app.
From there, you will be able to access the advanced configuration settings.
What is Hub Hive Hub“Pairing Mode”?
The key to understanding the installation of a new Hive Hub with an old thermostat is entering the “Pairing Mode” of the hub.
The hub uses conversion technology to connect to the internet externally while transcribing the protocols for the Hive thermostat and receiver.
Important: For the hub to start searching for new devices, you must activate “Pairing Mode”!
Connect New Hive Hub to Existing Thermostat – 5 Easy Steps!
Tip: Follow our steps in consecutive order!
1. Complete the Basic Hub Installation!
Before completing the software setup of the hub, it is necessary to undergo the first instructions to connect the hub with power and service.
After choosing a suitable position for the Hive hub or placing it on the spot of the old hub, you must verify that the cables are reaching the wall outlet.
How to Identify the Type of Hive Hub?
The primary hub installation varies with the different types of Hive hubs.
Typically, a Hive hub must be physically connected to a broadband router to connect to the internet.
Still, the newest 360 Hub uses a different technology that bypasses the need for a router.
Tip: To identify the type of the Hive hub, consult with the user manual or scan the code!
Does Hive Hub Need a Network Router?
The newest Hive 360 Hub uses Wi-Fi technology, so there is no requirement for a broadband connection.
The rest of the Hive hubs must be physically connected to a WiFi router to control all devices in the heating system remotely.
Note: The network cable for connecting the hub to a router will be included in the package!
2. Position the New Hub Properly!
To achieve proper connection quality between the new Hive hub and the already installed Hive thermostat, proper positioning is a crucial factor.
Hence, the next step is placing your hub as close to the thermostat as possible and installing the advanced software hub.
- The maximum distance between the hub and thermostat is ~10 metres!
For proper connection quality, use an electrical outlet next to the wall mount of the thermostat to install the new Hive hub.
This will guarantee no drops in the connection and a smooth operation.
Info: Issues with the connection of Hive setups are mostly distance-related!
3. Download/Update the Hive App!
You need the Hive mobile application to complete the software setup of the Hive hub efficiently.
If you’ve already used the platform and have it installed on your Android/iOS device, verifying that the app is updated to the latest version is advised.
Note: To update apps on your mobile, you must be connected to the internet!
How to Update the Hive Mobile App in Easy Steps?
- Open the Google Play/App Store on your mobile device.
- Press on your profile icon, located at one of the corners.
- Tap on “Manage Installed Applications” from the menu.
- Scroll down and locate the “Hive” app from all applications.
- Select the “Update” button if a newer firmware is available.
The Hive application should connect automatically once the mobile device has completed the firmware update.
However, double-check the internet connectivity of the mobile device and verify that the cellular/Wi-Fi features are working correctly.
Alert: The Hive application will not be accessible unless your device is connected!
4. Put the Hive Hub Into *Pairing Mode*
After verifying that the Hive mobile application is functioning correctly, the next step is to initiate the search for new devices in the Hive Hub.
The pairing mode capability can only be activated through the Hive app, so verify that the platform is launched and your device is paired to Wi-Fi.
Typically, two possible methods exist to put the Hive hub into pairing mode.
So, based on the hub model, you could use the Hive mobile application to activate the pairing mode or press the “WPS” button on the front of the hub and wait for the amber flickers.
Method #1 Use the Hive Mobile App!
Here’s how to put the Hive hub in pairing mode via the Hive app:
- Open the Hive mobile application on your Android/iOS unit.
- Press the “Install Devices” button from the app’s home menu.
- Wait until the Hive hub’ status changes to a “Searching” label.
Method #2 Use the “WPS” Button!
Here’s how to put the Hive hub in pairing mode via the in-built “WPS” button:
- Locate the frontal action buttons on the Hive hub device.
- Next, press and hold the “WPS” button on the frontal plate.
- Stop holding after 3 seconds and wait for the amber light.
If using the WPS button, quickly open the Hive app after the amber light flickers and complete the thermostat installation after the “Discovery” prompt appears.
Note: The Hive app is necessary for either method to complete the thermostat pairing!
5. Test the Thermostat’s Pairing!
To test the Hive programming between the Hive hub and the older thermostat, you must create a heating schedule or manually adjust the temperature.
If your Hive hub has successfully recognised the hub, the thermostat status will appear within the Hive mobile app.
- If the thermostat doesn’t adjust the temperature, verify that the HVAC system is enabled.
Any components such as the boiler, furnace and float switch are responsible for the unit’s heating schedule, so verify that all devices are checked before testing the thermostat.
Note: The hub's programming was successful if you can activate a heating schedule!
Frequently Asked Questions!
Since some users experienced difficulties setting up their brand-new Hive hub with an installed thermostat, we will do our best to eliminate most of the confusion.
Below are the most frequently asked questions throughout the Hive community regarding the setup:
Why is the Hive Thermostat Not Connecting?
If the Hive thermostat isn’t connecting to the Hive hub, the complication is most likely related to an issue with the internet supply.
Here are some reliable troubleshooting steps to attempt:
- Reconnect the broadband cable of the hub from the router.
- Power cycle the Hive hub and the connected router device.
- Hold the “reset” button on the back of the Hive hub device.
- Check if there’s an ongoing service outage with Hive heating.
Tip: If you’re still addressing connectivity issues with the hub, contact Hive customer support!
Why is there No Internet On the Hive Hub?
If the Hive hub isn’t establishing a connection to the internet, the Hive thermostat will be unable to connect as well.
If you have the Hive 360 hub, verify that the power adapter connection is secure otherwise, inspect the broadband cable between the Hive hub and the network router.
Can I Use Hive Equipment Without Internet?
The answer is both yes and no.
The system will continue to heat, but you will be restricted from utilising plenty of otherwise available features with an internet connection.
In other words, only the system’s essential functions, such as heating and cooling, will work without the internet.
Quick Recap:
To connect the new Hive Hub to an existing thermostat, verify that the Hive app is downloaded and updated to the latest firmware version.
Next, put the Hive hub into “Pairing” mode via the Hive app and press “Install Devices” to connect with your Hive thermostat device.
Follow us for more helpful how-to guides!
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites. Check out more about him here.