Simple Boiler Adjustments Could Slash UK Energy Bills by £325 Annually
As winter fades and spring arrives, many UK households switch off their central heating, assuming energy bills will plummet. However, energy experts warn that hidden boiler settings can silently drive up costs, even when heating is inactive. Mark Gamble, Head of Supplier Relations at Utility Bidder, emphasises that proactive boiler checks during warmer months can yield significant savings, potentially up to £325 per year on gas bills under the current Ofgem price cap.
Activate Summer Mode to Prevent Unnecessary Heating
Gamble's primary recommendation is to check if your boiler has a dedicated summer mode. Switching to this setting can save approximately £20 monthly by completely disabling central heating while still allowing hot water production. "Most modern boilers have a summer setting that turns off central heating completely, while still allowing you to heat water when needed," he explains. This prevents thermostats or timers from accidentally triggering the heating system, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Reduce Thermostat and Flow Temperatures for Efficiency
Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can save £80 to £150 annually, as most homes won't notice the temperature change, but the boiler works less intensively. Additionally, decreasing the boiler's flow temperature to around 60°C or lower enhances efficiency. "This helps modern boilers run in 'condensing mode', which uses less energy," Gamble notes. This adjustment can boost boiler efficiency by about 15%, translating to substantial savings on gas costs.
Optimise Timers and Water Temperature Settings
Refining timer settings is crucial to avoid paying for unused energy. Set heating or hot water to activate just before waking or returning home, and turn off earlier in the evening. "Keeping hot water to set times rather than leaving it on continuously can also make a difference," Gamble advises, highlighting that cutting back even an hour daily accumulates noticeable savings over time. Similarly, reducing hot water temperature to 50-55°C for combi boilers cuts costs without sacrificing comfort.
Maintain Pump Protection to Avoid Costly Repairs
Ensure pump protection settings remain active during summer, as they periodically operate to prevent component jamming. This feature consumes minimal energy but helps avert expensive repairs later. Gamble stresses that these simple checks, combined with mindful adjustments, can lead to annual savings of up to £325, making them essential for households looking to reduce energy expenses during warmer seasons.
