With energy bills on the rise over the last few years, making your heating system more energy efficient is absolutely essential. It can not only cut your bills down to size and save you money in the long run, but also ensure you’re warm and comfortable in your home.
London homes, particularly older properties, often struggle with heat retention – whether from insufficient insulation or outdated heating systems (or a combination of both).
So, what makes a heating system more energy efficient? Here are some tips for improving yours from commercial heating engineers in London:
What Makes a Heating System More Energy Efficient?
1. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Boiler
Modern condensing boilers can operate at up to or over 90% efficiency, capturing and reusing heat that would otherwise be wasted. If your boiler is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to an A-rated model to cut energy consumption.
2. Improve Insulation and Draught-Proofing
Poor insulation allows heat to escape, which forces your heating system to work harder to keep rooms warm. Loft and wall insulation, alongside other measures like double-glazed windows, help retain warmth.
There are lots of simple fixes you can do yourself too, such as draught-proofing the gaps around doors, windows and chimneys, for example.
3. Use Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats learn your heating habits and adjust accordingly, reducing unnecessary energy use. Zoning controls allow you to heat only the rooms you use, making your system more cost-effective.
4. Regular Maintenance
Annual servicing of your boiler and radiators is essential for keeping everything running efficiently. One thing you can do yourself is to bleed radiators, which removes trapped air and allows for better heat distribution.
5. Switch to Renewable Energy Sources
For long-term efficiency, consider upgrading to sustainable options such as heat pumps or solar water heating. While the upfront cost may be high, government incentives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can help make it a little more affordable.
