How to Increase Your Boiler’s Efficiency

Many of us look for ways to reduce energy costs, whether by adjusting our heating habits, investing in energy-efficient appliances, or exploring smart home technology. Some set aside money each month for rising energy bills, while others delay turning on the heating for as long as possible (we all know that one family member insists on wearing extra layers instead!).

Optimising your boiler’s performance is one of the most effective ways to manage your energy bills. While replacing a boiler can be a significant investment, maintaining its efficiency with regular upkeep can help reduce costs in the long run. With modern solutions like smart thermostats and government-backed energy efficiency schemes, there are even more ways to improve heating efficiency and save money.

But how can you ensure your boiler is running at peak performance? Read on for our top tips!

1. Regular Servicing

Ensuring your boiler is serviced every year is one of the best ways to keep things efficient. Getting your boiler serviced will mean any potential problems can be identified and fixed sooner rather than later, which will save you money and a lot of hassle in the long run.

Not to mention, it’s vital in keeping you and your family safe – especially given that around 4000 people every year visit A&E as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Regular checks will also keep your boiler in tip-top condition for longer, meaning you won’t be forking out for a new one unless you absolutely need it. Read about the importance of an annual boiler service here

2. Turn Your Heating On

Believe it or not, making the point of switching your heating on during the warmer months is actually a good way to keep your boiler running smoothly. Think of it like a car – if you don’t use it for months on end and suddenly go to switch it on on a chilly morning, it’s far more likely to seize up.

You don’t have to go mad during the warmer months, just pop the heating on once a week to make sure that things are ticking over nicely. Also, consider installing an energy-saving additive to optimise the thermal properties of the water in your heating system.

3. Keep it Clean

It’s easy to overlook your boiler when you’re cleaning your home, but keeping it dust free is one measure you can take to keep things running efficiently. If dust builds up, this can clog up tubes and pipes which not only can affect its performance but can also result in higher energy bills too.

Simply make a point of giving the outer of your boiler a clean whenever you do your regular chores just to remove any dust that’s building up. As for the interior, this is not something you should attempt to do yourself – this will usually be taken care of by an engineer when your boiler is serviced.

4. Bleed Your Radiators

If the radiators in your home are colder at the top than at the bottom, this usually means that your heating isn’t running as efficiently as it could be. By bleeding your radiators, you’re releasing any air that’s become trapped in the system, preventing it from becoming fully heated.

It’s a simple task that takes just a few minutes and can be done by yourself, but in the long run, it could save you a fair few quid.

5. Check Your Water Pressure

Loss of pressure in your boiler can be responsible for a number of issues, so it’s important to regularly check and top it up if needs be. Simply check the pressure gauge on your boiler, and as a rule of thumb, anything around the 1.5 mark is healthy, although every boiler is different so it’s worth checking your manufacturer’s guide just to be safe.

In most cases, you can repressurise your boiler yourself, but it’s always best to consult your manual first in case it needs to be done by a Gas Safe Engineer.

6. Insulate Your Pipes

Insulating your central heating pipes with easy-fit foam lagging (which you can buy from most DIY stores), will reduce the amount of heat loss, meaning water stays hotter for longer.

In turn, your boiler won’t have to work quite as hard, meaning you’ll save a little more on those energy bills.

7. Consider a New Boiler

If you’ve tried every which way to maximise your boiler’s efficiency and you still don’t see an improvement to the cost of your bills, it may be worth considering if it’s time to invest in a new one.

It may be an expense you don’t particularly want to face, but in the long run, it could be much better for you financially. It’s worth taking a look at our top tips on what you should be thinking about if you’re considering a new boiler, including brands, types available, and extra ways you can save money.

At WarmZilla we want to make it super easy for you if you decide to go for a new boiler, which is why you can get a quote online within minutes.

Whether you opt to go for a flexible finance package or pay in full too, there are even more ways for you to get a brand new boiler at an affordable price.