Incidentally, you should not switch off the heating in summer. On the contrary, you need to turn it up to 5. That’s the reason.
Many people in Germany want to spend less money on energy. To do this, they set their heating to a lower level in summer. However, this doesn’t always work well with new heating systems. People sometimes forget that modern heating systems, even if they are set to summer mode, switch on when it gets too cold. This can lead to higher costs. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to a few things. Read this article to find out why you shouldn’t switch off the heating at 30 degrees.
Heating on summer mode: Is this an unnoticed waste of energy?
Summer is just around the corner and the heating season is finally coming to an end. To avoid wasting energy during the warm summer months, most people switch their heating to summer mode. After all, this only produces hot water and no more heating. However, in some cases this is an expensive fallacy.
Many people do not realise this: A self-controlling system continues to start even in summer mode if the temperature falls below a certain level. This is the case, for example, if the temperature does drop below a certain level on isolated nights or if the temperature plummets during a thunderstorm.
As the German LPG Association reports, many heating systems are equipped with such outdoor temperature sensors, which detect changes in the weather and raise the heating accordingly if the temperature drops. Unfortunately, residents are unaware of this fact. The result is unnecessary and, above all, expensive energy consumption – even though the heating systems are actually intelligent.
Turn the radiator up to level 5: Very useful in summer
To prevent heating systems with intelligent control from starting up again in summer in the event of a sudden drop in temperature, the association recommends setting the summer mode manually. It is particularly important that the thermostats on the radiators are turned up fully. In view of the high temperatures, this is likely to confuse some people, according to the German Liquid Gas Association (DVFG).
However, this unusual measure fulfils a very important function. This is because turning up the thermostats causes the mechanism that regulates the flow of water into the radiators to relax. “This prevents the valves from blocking in summer and getting stuck at the start of the next heating period – and then, in the worst case, having to be replaced,” explains DVFG technology expert Markus Lau.
9 tips to help prepare your heating system for winter
A well-maintained heating system is more efficient, more reliable and lasts longer. Here are some tips for looking after your heating system:
- Regular maintenance: this is the most important step to ensure your heating system works properly during the winter. A professional heating engineer can check the system, clean it and carry out any necessary repairs. It is often recommended to do this at least once a year.
- Check the thermostat settings: Make sure your thermostat is working properly and set to the correct temperatures. A programmable thermostat can help save energy by lowering the temperature at times when no one is home.
- Keep the heating clear: Make sure that furniture, curtains or other objects do not block the heating. This enables efficient heat distribution and reduces the risk of fires.
- Change air filters: Dirty filters can block the air flow and reduce the efficiency of the heater. You should check the filters regularly and replace them if necessary.
- Bleed the radiators: If you have radiators, they should be bled regularly to ensure there is no trapped air inside, which can reduce efficiency.
- Check insulation: Good insulation keeps the heat in and reduces the load on the heating system. Check windows, doors and lofts for draughts and make improvements if necessary.
- Lower the temperature: You can save energy and extend the life of your heating system by lowering the temperature by a degree or two. This can make a big difference in your energy bill and it’s often barely noticeable in comfort.
- Check water pressure: For heaters that use a water system, it is important that the water pressure is set correctly. Check the pressure regularly and adjust it if necessary.
- Descale the boiler: If your water is hard, limescale can build up in the boiler and reduce its efficiency. A professional technician can check this and descale the boiler if necessary.
