lower boiler flow temperature to save energy
Last updated on: 09 December 2024

Reduce your Energy Bills by Lowering the Boiler Flow Temperature!

Since 2005, condensing technology has become increasingly popular, offering homeowners a space- and energy-efficient option. Eighty percent of UK households have opted for combi boilers to save money on electricity bills. However, many may not realise that a simple adjustment to the boiler flow temperature setting can significantly improve efficiency, leading to potential energy savings.

This helpful article will provide valuable information on combi boiler flow rate, including how to set the right temperature and other essential tips to ensure your boiler runs smoothly and efficiently. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your energy bills while keeping your home warm and comfortable during the colder months, making you feel financially savvy.

What is the boiler flow temperature, and how does it work?

Control Panel of the Gas Boiler for Hot Water and Heating

The combi boiler flow temperature ensures your heating system functions efficiently and effectively. It refers to the temperature at which your boiler heats the water and circulates it to your taps, showers, and radiators.

Maintaining your boiler’s flow temperature within the recommended range is crucial to avoid potential problems. Too high a temperature can lead to overheating, pump damage, and reduced energy efficiency. Conversely, a temperature that is too low can result in inconsistent heating output and increased fuel consumption, leading to poor performance. This underscores the importance of regular maintenance and care for your boiler.

Are you wondering about the ideal temperature range for your boiler’s flow? Several factors come into play. These include the type of fuel you use, the weather conditions in your region, your home’s heating load requirements, and the features and design of your boiler. Understanding these factors will help you determine the best temperature for your home.

Nowadays, advanced boilers have control panels that regulate and monitor the boiler’s flow rate, maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home. Proper maintenance and adjusting the boiler flow temperature are essential for improving efficiency, prolonging system life expectancy, reducing energy costs, and ensuring residents’ comfort.

Does the ideal flow temperature depend upon the type of boiler?

To optimise the efficiency of your boiler’s flow temperature, investing in a condensing combi boiler is imperative. This type of boiler eliminates the need for a hot water storage tank and provides hot water on demand, making it a highly convenient and cost-effective option. If you currently have a system or a heat-only boiler, avoid adjusting the flow temperature independently.

Instead, seek the assistance of a qualified professional who will assess your system. This professional advice will give you the confidence that your system is in good hands. But still, if you want to lower the temperature, don’t lower it below 65°C.

What temperature should a combi boiler be set at?

Control panel of the gas boiler for hot water and heating

Determining the optimum temperature to set on a combi gas boiler is crucial for maximising efficiency and reducing energy bills. Most gas boilers are initially set up with a flow and return temperature of 80°C–60°C. To clarify your concept, the flow rate refers to the temperature at which the water gets heated.

On the other hand, the return rate is the temperature at which the water travels back to the boiler after providing heat to the radiators.

It is important to note that the initial settings mentioned above are generally too high and limit the effectiveness of your boiler’s condensing technology.

So, it is suggested that the flow temperature be lowered from 80°C–60°C to 60°C–70°C. Lower temperatures will maximise the condensation in your boiler, resulting in efficient heating and lower energy bills.

Remember that setting the temperature below 50°C can increase the risk of Legionnaires disease when showering. To avoid the risk, it is suggested that the temperature be set between 37°C and 38 °C.

Another factor that affects your boiler’s flow temperature is your home’s insulation. If your home is insulated, set the flow temperature to 50°C. However, if you are unsure about your home’s insulation, it is suggested that you contact an expert to have them inspect it and follow his recommended temperature ratings.

After considering all the above considerations, it is suggested to lower the flow temperature by 5°C–10°C from the initial setting, but not more than that, regardless of how well-insulated your home is.

How to set your boiler temperature and turn down the flow Temperature

Lowering the flow setting of your boiler is a simple task that you can accomplish by accessing the control buttons in front of it. However, it’s important to note that the control settings may vary depending on the make and model of your boiler. Let’s explore the different control settings available:

  • Most combi boilers have two dials, one for heating and one for hot water. A radiator icon usually represents the heating dial. To adjust the temperature and make your home cosy, push the radiator icon button and set the temperature to your desired level.
  • Some Worcester boilers have settings ranging from 1 to 6 and do not provide an actual temperature setting. In this case, you will need to adjust the setting manually. Suppose your boiler is set to number one with a digital screen displaying 80°C. Then, setting the number to three will give you 60 °C.
  • Other boilers have both dials and a digital display screen. Each dial contains symbols for the water tap and radiator. To lower the temperature, turn down the radiator dial.
  • Newer boilers come with a digital display screen and up and down buttons. Adjusting the temperature is as easy as pushing the up and down buttons or + and -.

Following these simple steps, you can quickly lower your boiler’s flow setting and enjoy a comfortable home environment, feeling secure in the knowledge that you’re not compromising on safety.

Ideal temperature rating month by month

Temperature Comparison
MonthOld HomeModern well-insulated home
January-February60°C – 65°C50°C – 55°C
March60°C50°C
April-October55°C45°C
November50°C45°C
December60°C50°C

Is it necessary to lower the boiler flow temperature?

While not strictly necessary, lowering the flow temperature on your combi boiler is considered good practice to reduce energy usage without turning down your thermostat.

It is important to note that this may only be suitable for some, as a lower flow temperature may not provide sufficient warmth.

In some cases, a higher flow temperature may be more appropriate, mainly if your home is susceptible to getting cold. Adjusting your flow temperature should be based on your needs and circumstances.

Conclusion:

After reading this article, we hope you better understand the combi boiler flow rate and the ideal heating temperature settings.

Comprehending the boiler flow temperature is crucial, as incorrect settings can lead to underutilisation of your combi boiler and central heating system. Although we have suggested lowering the boiler flow temperature settings, it might only suit some. Therefore, I recommend conducting some trial and error so that you can determine the ideal temperature for your home.

If you have a system or heat-only boiler, it is best to leave the boiler flow unchanged and seek professional assistance. If you still have any questions regarding your boiler, please do not hesitate to contact us at 0345 3192 247 or visit our website.

 

The information provided in this article has been collected from various sources. However, we suggest you consult a certified Gas-Safe Engineer in your area before making any decisions, as every individual’s home situation is unique.

Posted by: Martin Astley 12 May 2023