Boiler tips to save money on heating
Winter is well and truly here and many of us will be spending the next few days cuddled up warm in our houses, the heating on full blast and the Christmas tunes blasting festive cheer.
Due to the extra strain put on boilers during this time of year, it is not uncommon for them to fail or work overtime, resulting in an extremely high gas bill in the new year. To make sure you are well prepared for the rest of winter, follow these simple steps:
Powerflush
You should powerflush your heating system every five years to ensure your water circulation is at its best and your boiler is chugging away nicely. The powerflush involves a pump being connected into your heating system, water and a sludge crust breaker are then pushed through the pump at high speed and low pressure to loosen any rust which has built up over time.
Fit a thermostat and/or insulation jacket
If you have a traditional boiler, you may want to consider fitting a hot water tank thermostat and insulation jacket, which will make your boiler more energy efficient and save you money in the long run.
A thermostat could save you £30 a year and reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by up to 130kg. It works by controlling the temperature of the hot water leaving the tank and should be set to a maximum temperature of 60 °C to remain cost-effective.
The insulation jacket, which fits around your tank, can save you £40 a year through reducing up to 75% of the heat which escapes - the water in the tank remains hot for longer, requiring less heating energy overall.
Routine boiler service
Booking your boiler in for a routine service will ensure that it runs more efficiently and safely. You’ll also save money in the long run as you will be able to identify and fix any small issues before they develop into a full-blown problem.
Routine checks lengthen the lifespan of your boiler, ensure you don’t have to spend a lot on emergency boiler repairs and protects you and your family against carbon monoxide threats.
