Millions of British households could be throwing away over £100 annually by ignoring a simple adjustment to their central heating systems, according to energy efficiency experts.
The Hidden Setting That's Costing You Money
Research indicates that most combi boilers are set at unnecessarily high flow temperatures, typically between 75°C and 80°C. This not only wastes significant energy but also fails to provide any additional comfort benefits to homeowners.
Energy Saving Trust analysis reveals that reducing your boiler's flow temperature to 60°C for heating could slash gas consumption by up to 8% annually. For the average household, this translates to approximately £112 in savings based on current energy prices.
Why This Simple Change Works
Modern condensing combi boilers operate most efficiently at lower temperatures. When set too high, they cannot recover latent heat from flue gases, essentially wasting energy and money.
Key benefits of adjusting your flow temperature include:
- Reduced gas consumption without sacrificing comfort
- Lower carbon emissions from your household
- Potential extension of your boiler's lifespan
- More consistent room temperatures throughout your home
How to Make the Change Safely
Adjusting your boiler's flow temperature is typically straightforward and can be done by most homeowners without professional help. The process usually involves:
- Locating your boiler's central heating flow temperature dial
- Gradually reducing the temperature to around 60°C
- Monitoring your home's comfort levels over subsequent days
- Making minor adjustments if necessary
Important note: This adjustment applies specifically to your heating system, not your hot water temperature, which should remain higher for safety reasons.
Maximising Your Energy Savings
While adjusting your flow temperature provides immediate benefits, experts recommend combining this change with other energy-saving measures for maximum impact:
- Install smart heating controls for better temperature management
- Ensure your property is well-insulated
- Bleed radiators regularly to maintain efficiency
- Consider professional boiler servicing if performance issues arise
With energy prices remaining historically high, this simple fifteen-minute adjustment could provide much-needed financial relief for families across the UK while contributing to national carbon reduction targets.
