As the temperatures rise during the summer months, many homeowners wonder if it’s worth turning off their boilers. As the cost of living crisis bites harder, it seems like an easy win – but is it?
The short answer is that it depends on your individual circumstances and the type of boiler you have.
First, it’s important to understand that boilers are responsible for heating your home during the colder months.
In the summer, when the weather is warm and you don’t need to heat your home, so the theory is that turning off your boiler can save you money on your energy bills.
However, if you have a combi boiler, which provides both heating and hot water, turning off your boiler may not be an option. Combi boilers are designed to provide hot water on demand, so turning them off can disrupt your hot water supply.
What about traditional boilers in summer?
If you have a traditional boiler, you may be able to turn it off during the summer months and save money on your energy bills.
However, it’s important to note that turning off your boiler can also cause problems. If you turn off your boiler and then turn it back on later, it may not function properly, causing damage and requiring costly repairs.
Additionally, if you have a hot water tank, it’s important to keep the temperature of the tank at a low setting. If you turn off your boiler, the tank will not be heated, and the water inside may become stagnant, which can lead to bacteria growth.
Is it dangerous to not heat your water in summer?
Yes, you run the risk of bacteria spreading and even getting sick – Legionnaires Disease for example.
Bacteria growth in a heating tank can be a serious concern for homeowners in the UK. A heating tank, better known as a “hot water tank” to most Brits, is used to store hot water that is used for various household purposes such as bathing, washing dishes, and doing laundry.
If bacteria grow inside the tank, it can lead to unpleasant odours, discolored water, and even health hazards.
One of the main causes of bacteria growth in a heating tank is stagnant water. When a hot water tank is not used frequently or not heated regularly, the water inside can become stagnant, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.
Also, if the temperature of the tank is not set at a high enough level, the water inside may not be hot enough to kill bacteria.
Another cause of bacteria growth in a heating tank is sediment build-up.
Sediment, such as minerals and other particles, can accumulate at the bottom of the tank and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. This sediment can also cause damage to the tank and reduce its efficiency.
How do I prevent bacteria growth in my heating system?
To prevent bacteria growth in a heating tank, it’s important to maintain the tank regularly. This includes draining the tank to remove sediment build-up, setting the temperature to a high enough level to kill bacteria, and using the hot water frequently to prevent stagnation.
It’s also a good idea to have a professional inspect and service the tank at least once a year.
In short, it isn’t worth the risk.
Therefore, turning off your boiler during the summer months can save you money on your energy bills, but it’s important to consider the type of boiler you have, and the potential risks and costs associated with turning off your boiler. If you’re not sure whether turning off your boiler is the right decision for you, it’s best to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action.
Are boilers expensive to run in hot weather?
No, the costs are pretty much the same in terms of power usage. Of course in colder weather you'll use the boiler and heating more, so that's why your bills are higher.
How much money can I save by using my boiler year-round?
You are probably already using your boiler throughout the year, if you are using it to heat hot water for example. And most homeowners will be doing just that, so the costs of running a boiler year-round are cheaper in the summer months.
Do I need boiler cover if I only use my boiler in the winter?
As above, if you use your boiler to heat water then you are using it throughout the year. Or more specifically, not just in winter, so therefore you may need boiler cover to cover you and give you peace-of-mind in the summer months too.