Octopus Energy has advised that lowering your boiler's flow temperature could cut annual heating bills by up to £65. The energy supplier, which serves gas and electricity customers across the UK, shared the tip as many households face rising energy costs.
The flow temperature determines how hot the water is when it leaves the boiler and circulates through radiators. According to Octopus Energy, the default setting is often too high, typically between 70°C and 80°C. Reducing this setting can still keep your home warm while using less gas, potentially saving up to £65 per year.
However, the advice applies only to combi boilers, not system boilers with a hot water cylinder. Octopus Energy explained that turning down the flow temperature means radiators will feel cooler to the touch and rooms will take longer to heat up, but for well-insulated homes, the boiler runs more efficiently, achieving the same room temperature with less energy.
Consumer group Which? noted that savings depend on the home's insulation and radiator size. In poorly insulated homes or those with undersized radiators, lower flow temperatures might not work as effectively. They recommend a boiler service to get tailored advice.
Nesta's Money Saving Boiler Challenge offers a quick online test to help households determine the optimal flow temperature setting. Octopus Energy's tip is part of a broader set of energy-saving suggestions published on its website.
