Smart tech and boiler care: the perfect duo for lower energy bills
When it comes to staying warm and saving energy, small adjustments can have a big financial impact. Experts say that integrating smart technology with regular boiler maintenance is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy bills without sacrificing comfort.
Use timers and smart thermostats to control heat
One of the simplest and most powerful steps is to use a timer or smart thermostat. If your boiler or thermostat has scheduling capabilities, set it to warm the home before you wake and cool it when you’re out or asleep. This avoids keeping the house at a constant, high temperature when it isn’t needed. As consumer finance specialist Sarah Pennells from Royal London puts it, “small changes can make a big difference” when it comes to staying warm and saving energy.
How to get the most from timers
– Create a wake-up routine with higher temperatures for a short window in the morning.
– Lower the temperature during the day when occupants are at work or school.
– Return to a comfortable level before you arrive home or start cooking.
Upgrade to a smart thermostat and learn its quirks
Smart thermostats learn your routines and can be controlled remotely via an app. They offer adaptive scheduling, geofencing (adjusting based on where you are), and energy usage reports. The benefit isn’t just convenience; it’s wiring your home to heat only when and where it’s needed. Start with one room or zone and expand as you gain confidence.
Regular boiler servicing matters
Few home maintenance tasks affect energy bills as directly as a well-serviced boiler. Regular servicing keeps the system running efficiently, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and can catch issues that waste fuel. An efficient boiler uses less gas to deliver the same level of warmth, translating into smaller monthly bills over time.
What a boiler service typically involves
– Cleaning heat exchangers and burners for optimum combustion.
– Checking for leaks and pressure stability.
– Inspecting fault codes and safety devices to prevent wasteful operation.
– Ensuring the system is running at peak efficiency and that controls are calibrated.
Zone heating and smart controls
Rather than heating the entire house evenly, consider zoning rooms that get used most. Smart thermostats and compatible smart valves can keep unused rooms cooler, directing warmth where it’s needed. This targeted approach reduces overall energy use while maintaining comfort in living spaces.
Household habits that boost efficiency
– Use radiator reflectors behind heaters to minimize heat loss.
– Bleed radiators to remove trapped air and improve circulation.
– Insulate pipes and seal drafts around doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping.
Bottom line: start small, think smart
Transitioning to smart tech and staying on top of boiler maintenance can yield noticeable savings on energy bills without major renovations. Start with a programmable timer, then add a smart thermostat and plan a regular boiler service. With a bit of planning, warm rooms and lower costs go hand in hand.
