As winter continues to bite, households in the UK are once again grappling with sky-rocketing heating costs.
However, one simple tweak to your boiler settings could take the sting out of escalating energy bills this winter.
Many boilers come preset to heat water to a high 70-80°C, leading to rapid radiator warming but also higher energy wastage as excess heat vanishes up the flue.
Stephen Day, a Heating Engineer at iHeat, explains that one simple tweak the settings on your boiler can help to lower wastage without making your home feel colder.
He said: “Lowering your boiler’s flow temperature is a simple yet impactful way to improve efficiency. This small tweak can save money and energy without compromising on comfort.”
If your flue constantly looks like a chimney you might benefit from making a small adjustment. By setting the boiler’s flow temperature to 60°C, it can switch to a “condensing mode,” which reuses heat that would typically be lost.
This adjustment does not alter your thermostat’s set temperature meaning that your home stays nice and cosy. Your radiators might take a little longer to warm up as a result of the change but the savings look well worth the wait.
The expert said: “Turning your boiler flow temperature down could reduce your bills by as much as 9%, meaning the average household could save around £163 a year or £13 a month – that’s enough to cover your monthly streaming subscription.
“Changing your boiler’s flow temperature is quick and easy. You won’t need specialist tools or knowledge, just a few minutes to follow these steps.”
How to Adjust Your Boiler’s Flow Temperature
Locate the Flow Temperature Control – Find the dial or digital setting on your boiler panel, often marked with a radiator symbol.
Adjust the Temperature – If the control has numbers, set it to 60°C. If no numbers are shown, use the midpoint as a general guide.
Monitor Your Heating – Check your home’s warmth and adjust slightly if needed.
This straightforward change could be the cost-effective solution you need to keep heating affordable without sacrificing comfort.
If fiddling with your boiler’s settings makes you uneasy, or you’re seeking more in-depth guidance, it’s wise to get in touch with a professional plumber.
