As the mercury continues to drop, households across the UK are looking for best practices that can help them effectively heat their homes. Thanks to gas central heating systems, we can enjoy a warm home without the inconvenience of consistently stoking a fire. However, to optimise your system’s performance and achieve better energy efficiency, here are some smart strategies.
The centrepiece of your heating system is the boiler, and its efficiency largely determines how effectively your home is heated. Regular boiler servicing helps ensure your boiler is operating at its best. An annual service by a Gas Safe registered engineer can improve your boiler’s lifespan, reduce the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, and enhance its efficacy.
Installing a programmable thermostat provides you with complete control over your home’s temperature. By setting heating times that align with your daily routine, you avoid heating an empty house, substantially reducing energy waste. Aim to maintain an average temperature of 19 degrees Celsius, which strikes a balance between comfort and cost.
Investing in proper insulation is integral too. Insulated lofts, floors, cavities and draught-proofed windows and doors can drastically trim your energy bills whilst making your home cosier. Remember, upgrading your home’s insulation might be an initial expense, but it pays dividends in the long term by helping to reduce unnecessary heating.
Adding radiator reflectors behind your radiators can also prove valuable. These nifty devices work by reflecting heat back into your room, preventing it from being lost through the walls. Consequently, your radiator warms up your room more efficiently, helping to cut down on energy used.
Smart thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) not only allow every room’s temperature to be individually controlled but also reduce power usage by sensing when the room is unoccupied. Using TRVs in conjunction with a programmable thermostat can result in significant energy and cost savings.
Switching your boiler to ‘eco-mode’ when hot water is not needed can make a remarkable difference too. It lowers the boiler’s temperature, causing it to run for a lesser period, conserving gas and leading to reduced energy bills.
Lastly, we often overlook the simplest practice, which is minimising heat escapes. Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible during cold months. Using curtains as barriers can help too.
Implementing these tactics can scale up the efficiency of your gas central heating system, manifesting in a warmer home and lesser energy bills. Adopt these best practices and keep your home snug and energy-efficient during the cooler months.