Boiler expert sets record straight on common MYTH that is raking up heating bills – save cash & stay warm the simple way

IF you’re worried about rising costs and are looking for ways to save cash, you’ve come to the right place.

It turns out that many of us are making a very popular mistake, which is raking up our annual energy bills.

So if you fancy pocketing some extra pounds, you’ll need to take notes.

According to a boiler expert, making one simple change can make all the difference and will cut costs this winter – and it’s all to do with a common myth. 

The question on everyone’s lips is whether it’s more purse-friendly to keep the heating on a constant low or to only switch it on when required.

Andy Kerr, a boiler installation guru at BOXT has offered his professional insight, to ensure Britons use their central heating effectively.

Andy, the BOXT founder, shared: “The idea that leaving your heating on low all day will save you money is a myth.”

Instead, Andy shared that if you want to save cash and stay warm this winter, it’s all about keeping it simple.

He added: “The best way to save money on your heating bills is to only use your boiler when you need it so that it does not continually use energy.”

Andy continued: “By only using your boiler when you want warm water or heating, you minimise the energy your boiler uses in the long term.”

And the justification is straightforward – burning fuel at a constant rate will result in the continual use of energy and energy loss.

Andy provided some more crucial guidance for homeowners, as he advised: “It is more energy-efficient and cheaper to only use your boiler when you need it and to adjust your thermostat to ensure your home is heated to the desired temperature.”

Keen to set the record straight, he expressed: “Setting your thermostat higher will not make your boiler heat up faster. 

“Instead, it will cause your boiler to use more energy to reach a higher temperature, which could cost you.”

But just as overusing your heating in winter can be costly, Andy also warned against leaving the boiler completely unused during summer.

He reinforced: “You might be tempted to not use the boiler at all during summer, however, it’s always a good idea to run your heating from time to time to stop components seizing up.”

For those with modern combi boilers, he revealed: “If you have a modern combi boiler, when you run hot water the majority of your boiler components are still being used during the summer, although it is still a good idea to turn your heating system on periodically to check your thermostat operation and prevent the wider system from seizing up.”

And to avoid boiler seizure due to inactivity, Andy recommended setting thermostats to at least 10C or using the boiler’s heating controls and timings. 

The idea that leaving your heating on low all day will save you money is a myth

Andy Kerr

He pointed out that most boilers allow you to set your timers and schedules, while smart thermostats help control your boiler’s temperature more accurately.

He shared: “Those with a smart thermostat can often control the temperature inside their home without needing to be at the property, making these devices perfect for those travelling throughout the year.”

Not only this, but Andy suggested that for those concerned about energy loss, “making home improvements to improve insulation can save you money in the long run”.

Stressing the importance of insulation, he commented: “Having wall, floor and roof insulation installed can reduce the amount of energy lost from your home, and reduce the time it takes for your boiler to heat and maintain the temperature in your house.”