A plumber has shared the precise thermostat setting that could save you up to £270 annually on your energy bills. David Doran of Blackstone Plumbing and Heating Ltd. explained to Birmingham Live the most efficient heating practices for UK households during the winter months.
Contrary to popular belief, David advises against completely switching off your heating when you’re away or at night in winter. Instead, maintaining a lower, steady temperature helps prevent unnecessary energy consumption while keeping your home warm.
The recommended thermostat temperature range to aim for is between 15 and 17 degrees Celsius. This balance keeps your home comfortable without wasting energy.
When it comes to combi boilers, the ideal flow temperature depends on your home’s age and insulation. Older homes typically run their heating systems at around 60°C, while newer properties can function efficiently between 50 and 55°C. Boilers perform best at flow temperatures of 45°C or lower, but this may be too cool for poorly insulated or older homes.
The optimal flow temperature also hinges on radiator size and home insulation quality. Lower flow temperatures require larger radiator surface areas to achieve the desired room temperature, which is why larger radiators are essential for systems like air source heat pumps.
Fortunately, many radiators are often oversized due to previous sizing based on outdated calculations, which works in your favor when lowering flow temperatures.
Yet, adjusting the flow temperature is only the first step. According to David, many boilers operate 10% to 25% below their A-rated efficiency because they aren’t set up correctly. Ensuring proper boiler settings and thermostat management can significantly improve energy efficiency, helping you save money and reduce your environmental impact.