Even though it’s only September, it won’t be long before the weather starts to get a lot darker and colder. This means that after months of our central heating systems lying dormant, it will soon be time to get them cranked up again in order to stay warm.
However, it’s no surprise that energy bills have been getting more and more expensive. The thought of turning on the heating again can be stressful, which it’s why it’s important to be prepared. And according to energy experts, there are a few key mistakes that people always make when it comes to their boilers which can drive up bills.
Energy experts at Grant Store have shared the most frequent errors they see and how to fix them.
“One of the biggest mistakes is not getting your boiler serviced regularly,” the experts said: “A service once a year ensures your boiler is working efficiently and helps prevent costly breakdowns during winter.”
Incorrect thermostat settings are another common issue. “Many households set the thermostat too high, which wastes energy and money. For most homes, a comfortable range is between 18°C and 21C,” the experts explained.
They also warn against ignoring the boiler pressure gauge. “If the pressure is too low or too high, your system will not run as efficiently. Check your boiler manual for the correct range and adjust accordingly.”
Bleeding radiators is another simple yet often overlooked step: Trapped air in your radiators can stop them heating properly, which makes your boiler work harder.
Because of this, it’s important to bleed them in early autumn, which can improve their efficiency before the cold weather arrives.
The experts also recommend checking out your heating schedule before switching the boiler back on. They said: “Setting the heating to come on only when needed and turning it off when you are out can make a big difference to your bills. Many smart thermostats allow you to programme heating times to match your routine.”
Finally, they suggest keeping the area around your boiler clear. Storing items too close can block ventilation and reduce efficiency. Always make sure there is enough space around the boiler for it to operate safely and effectively.