What Temperature Should My Boiler Be Set At In Winter?

A warm, cosy home with instant hot water is a must in the cold, grey of winter. It can help to lift the winter blues while keeping you healthy during the rain and fog. However, boiler temperature is also crucial for keeping your heating system running at maximum efficiency. This can keep your costs as low as possible while potentially extending the lifespan of your boiler.

Here are your boiler tips for winter.

Flow Temperature

The flow temperature refers to the temperature that your boiler heats the water to before it reaches your radiators. Set at between 60°C and 70°C, this is much higher than the actual temperature of your radiators. The reason for this is that water gradually loses heat as it circulates around your home and back to the boiler. According to the latest Energy Saving Trust guidelines, setting your boiler flow temperature to 60°C can enhance efficiency by up to 4% when preparing your boiler for winter. However, if you experience any reduction in hot water temperature, revert to your previous settings and consult a qualified heating engineer.

Thermostatic Temperature

The thermostatic temperature is the temperature of your home. The ideal temperature is one of personal choice, with a comfortable 19°C to 21°C being most people’s preferred range. This is also the most energy efficient thermostatic temperature for the UK winter. If you are interested in investing in the longevity of your boiler, it is worth remembering that higher temperatures accelerate natural chemical reactions such as corrosion. This can cause blockages that demand a boiler repair service.

Setting The Temperature On A Combi Boiler

To set the temperature on a combi boiler, you will need to access the control panel. This will allow you to see and adjust the flow temperature. Some boilers have a dial, but it is more likely that you have buttons with arrows. Once you have set the flow temperature, use the external thermostat to decide how warm you want your home to be. This is something that you can change daily, although it is much more energy efficient and cost effective to use a timer. Smart thermostats will keep your house at a constant temperature, discretely activating and deactivating the system depending on the ambience.

Setting The Temperature On A Cylinder Boiler

A cylinder boiler has a single dial to regulate both the flow temperature and the thermostatic temperature. Normally located on the side of the tank, this should be set to around 60°C. As water loses heat as it travels around the radiator network, older or larger properties may require a higher temperature. The maximum safe temperature for a cylinder is 67°C. Never set your cylinder boiler thermostat to below 60°C, as lower temperatures can become perfect breeding grounds for bacteria.

Ways To Increase The Efficiency Of A Boiler

Boiler efficiency and flow temperature are closely related. If the flow temperature is too low or too high, the system will not be optimised. Over time, this can lead to stress and damage. Ideally, have your boiler serviced annually, as a Gas Safe heating engineer will be able to make astute adjustments that boost efficiency and extend longevity. Additionally, consider having a system flush every 5-6 years. A system flush will blast any sludge and debris from your pipework, enabling you to keep your flow temperature as low as possible.

Ready To Book A Boiler Service?

The best and most cost-effective time to get your boiler winter ready is during the summer. To ensure that your home is both cosy and efficient this year, book a boiler service today.

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