5 boiler hacks that could save you thousands
With snowfall and biting winds gripping much of the UK, many of us are looking for clever ways to stay warm for less.
While layering up and draught-proofing are great places to start, experts have shared simple boiler hacks that could save you thousands.
"We're all looking for ways that we can reduce our monthly outgoings. Making our boilers more efficient will mean they don't have to work as hard, resulting in a lower energy bill at the end of the month," says Joshua Houston, Boiler Expert at GreenMatch.
"Not only this but taking care of your boiler will help prevent more major damage. It will increase the lifespan of your boiler, which will save you money on a replacement or repairs."
Take a look at the top tips below:
1. Clean your boiler
Prevent boiler breakdowns and other problems by cleaning yours at least once every six to 12 months. You can do it yourself or enlist the help of a professional during an annual boiler service visit.
"When going about your regular cleaning, make sure that your boiler is on the list. This is because dust (along with other substances) builds up on the boiler's surface. Regular cleaning prevents rust, which ultimately increases the lifespan of your boiler before needing to be replaced," says Joshua.
"The average cost of a new boiler in the UK is between £1,500 and £3,500, but it can be more. So following this simple tip could save you thousands."
2. Increase the pressure
Topping up your boiler pressure is a simple fix with big results. According to British Gas, your pressure should be between 1 and 2 bars.
If your boiler pressure reads less than 1 bar, you may have lost water from the system. However, if it reads more than 2, bleed your radiators to reduce the pressure (more on that below).
"If you're struggling to get hot water at a good temperature and speed, then there might be a problem with your boiler pressure," adds Joshua.
"First, you need to search for a valve in the pipework. Once this has been located, open it a little and you should see the pressure beginning to rise. Continue to do this until the gauge reads between 1 and 1.5, then close the valve."
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3. Insulate your pipes
"When the temperature outside goes below zero, water can freeze inside pipes, which forces your boiler to work harder. In some cases, this can cause the pipes to burst, leaving an expensive repair bill," says Joshua.
"To prevent this, you can use foam tubes that can be picked up for as little as a couple of pounds. Simply put the tubes around your pipes to keep them warm, and reduce heat loss. This means that your boiler won't have to work as hard, as your water will stay warmer for longer, saving you money."
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4. Bleed your radiators
You should bleed your radiators once a year, ideally at the start of winter – just before you turn your heating back on. Don't worry if you missed this off your to-do list: you can still do it in January to ensure they work efficiently.
To do this, follow the steps below:
1. "Firstly, ensure that your central heating system is turned off. This will allow the radiator (and the water inside) to cool down, reducing the risk of burns and water leakage," says Joshua. "Then locate the bleed valve on the radiator. The bleed valve is a small square peg or a round knob, and it may be concealed under a plastic cap."
2. "Place a small bowl or towel below the radiator to catch any water that may spill. Hold another cloth or towel directly below the valve as you do the next step.
3. "Insert the radiator key or screwdriver into the bleed valve and slowly turn it anticlockwise. You should hear a hissing sound as the air escapes. Keep the valve open until the hissing stops and water drops start to flow out.
4. "Once the water appears, quickly close the bleed valve by turning it clockwise. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the valve. You can now turn your heating back on and enjoy fully functioning heating."
5. Get your boiler serviced
Ensure your central heating system runs efficiently by getting your boiler serviced by a Gas Safe-registered engineer.
"Your boiler is a crucial part of your home, so you must make sure that it is regularly serviced," adds Joshua.
"An engineer will be able to spot any issues, and if they're early enough, stop a minor problem from becoming major. They can also clean the inside of the boiler, which often becomes overrun with dust, causing blockages. You should aim to get your boiler serviced at least once a year, or when you think there might be a problem."
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Teddy Fleece Adults Hooded Blanket
Keep warm on a winter's day with this cream fleece from M&S. Complete with a fluffy hood and deep pocket, it cleverly traps in body heat, allowing you to stay cosy while turning down the heating.
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This snuggle blanket hoodie from The White Company is just the thing for colder months. In a lovely pale grey, it comes with a generous hood large kangaroo pocket for you to sink your hands into. It's right at the top of our wish list...
Hi-Pile Oversized Lounge Hoodie, Grey
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Working from home? Don't sit down at your desk without this long wearable blanket with sleeves. Features include a large front pocket, roomy sleeves for extra flexibility and its neck-to-toe coverage thanks to its 17o-200cm measurement.
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