Heating and boiler experts have warned Britons against turning off unused radiators as a way of saving energy this winter.
Contrary to popular opinion, turning off radiators in empty rooms could actually drive up bills in the long run, depending on your type of boiler. Ben Price, founder of Heatable, explained to the Daily Express: “Turning off your heating in unused rooms by turning the radiator’s thermostatic radiator valve to zero or off can save you energy, but it could also cost you more money because ultimately they’re always directly related.
"However, the caveat to this is that it depends on the age of your current boiler. If your boiler is an old G-rated and non-condensing boiler (typically sold before 2005), you will likely save money by turning off unused radiators.
“However, if you have a modern condensing boiler, they operate more efficiently at lower flow temperatures.” Mr Price explained that residents can find out if have a modern condensing boiler by checking if there is a wipe pipe exiting from the boiler underneath. He added that, with a condensing boiler, instead of heat being "wasted and sent out by your flue pipe", it is "recycled back into your central heating system".
Therefore, a more efficient way of saving energy is to reduce the flow temperature. There are two ways to achieve this, the expert revealed. This includes using a modulating thermostat and increasing the radiator surface area.
This also means unused radiators or radiators in rooms not being used should be left open or on. Mr Price explained: “Not doing so will make your boiler have to work harder and burn more energy to reach the desired temperature of the radiators you have left on.
“This is all due to the fact that while the radiators are less hot, they are still able to heat your home to the desired temperature. So, the thing to remember is if you are not using radiators in unused rooms, you still want to leave them on in order to allow water to continue to flow through them. Or, the other radiators and ultimately your boiler will have to work harder.”
Another expert has also shared money-saving “myths” to avoid when it comes to trying to reduce energy costs. Jonathan Rolande, from House Buy Fast, said: “At the moment it can be tempting to follow every single piece of advice out there in relation to energy and money saving.
“But, like anything, not all advice is good advice and I’ve become concerned in recent weeks about certain measures which are being promoted. Obvious steps like taking shorter showers, wearing an extra layer of clothing and turning down the heating a degree will save you money. But there are other measures being suggested which aren’t right for many householders.”
This included a “nonsense” radiator hack which involved painting a radiator black because it was thought to emit more heat. Mr Rolande also said households should not avoid using the dishwasher, because if used right, it can be effective.
The expert said: “Dishwashers often get a bad reputation for being lumped in with energy-sucking appliances such as tumble dryers. Whilst tumble dryers remain a serious energy offender (drying your clothes on a rack in front of a radiator instead could save you up to £130 per year), dishwashers are not as bad for the environment.”
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
Find recommendations for eating out, attractions and events near you here on our sister website 2Chill
Find recommendations for dog owners and more doggy stories on our sister site Teamdogs
