Smart Tech and Maintenance Tips to Save on Heating Bills
Smart thermostats allow remote control through an app, offering features like multi-room control, hot water management, and geofencing. Typical costs range from £60 to £250; some models are suitable for DIY installation, while others require professional fitting. Some energy deals offer partnerships with these devices, providing discounts of up to 50%, such as through Octopus and tado°.
Lowering your thermostat temperature from 22°C to 21°C can save around £90 annually. Generally, a comfortable home temperature is between 18°C and 21°C, with each one-degree drop potentially reducing energy bills by about 10%. However, vulnerable individuals should avoid temperatures below 21°C. Setting heating to switch off 30 minutes before leaving the house or going to sleep can further reduce costs.
For combi boilers, lowering the flow temperature to about 60°C reduces gas usage without noticeable warmth loss. System boilers or those with hot water cylinders should not be adjusted this way without consulting an engineer. Nesta offers an online tool for assistance, and users are advised to take a photo of their boiler controls before making adjustments.
Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) enable setting different temperatures per room, with typical settings being 3–4 for used rooms and 2–3 for others. Adding TRVs to a heating system with a programmer and thermostat can save approximately £35 per year.
Radiator reflectors placed behind radiators help reflect heat back into the room, addressing the estimated 35% heat loss through walls. These reflectors are inexpensive and easy to install.
Regularly bleeding radiators every few months removes trapped air to maintain efficiency. Ensure radiators are off and cool before using a bleed key or screwdriver to vent air until a steady water stream appears.
Boiler servicing enhances efficiency and extends lifespan; an unserviced boiler may consume up to 10% more energy. A standard service costs between £70 and £110. Some energy providers include servicing in home care plans. In rental properties, annual servicing is mandatory and must be performed by a Gas Safe (for gas boilers) or Oftec (for oil boilers) registered engineer.
