During the summer months, the radiators in our homes are usually turned off – set to zero or to snow, depending on the model of the radiator. According to the German Liquefied Gas Association (DVFG), this is a mistake that can cost us dearly.
The Common Mistake of Turning Off Radiators
As the heating season ends, most people typically switch off their radiators. With warm spring nights, additional heating seems unnecessary, and many believe that turning off the radiators will save money. However, DVFG experts caution that this action could result in significant costs.
Set Your Radiators to “Five” Even in Summer for Lower Bills
The DVFG advises that owners of radiators with outdoor temperature sensors who turn them off for the summer might inadvertently increase their heating expenses. Instead of setting the thermostat to “zero,” they suggest setting it to “five.”
Markus Lau, a technical expert at DVFG, explains that this practice prevents radiator valves from becoming clogged during the summer, which could lead to radiator malfunctions and costly replacements at the beginning of the next heating season.
Moreover, certain heating systems have a self-regulation feature that activates even in summer when temperatures drop below a specific threshold. This can occur during colder nights or after a storm.
Higher Energy Prices Starting in July: Every Form of Savings Matters
Saving energy is becoming increasingly important. Starting July 1, 2024, a new maximum electricity price for households will be set at PLN 500 per MWh net, regardless of consumption levels. This marks a significant change from the previous system, where households paid PLN 412 per MWh net up to a certain consumption limit, after which the price rose to PLN 693 per MWh.
While the new tariffs approved by the ERO President average PLN 622.8 per MWh net, households will pay a fixed rate of PLN 500 per MWh starting in July.
Understanding these changes and optimizing radiator settings during summer can help manage energy costs more effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
