During the holiday season, many homeowners face the question of whether they should turn off their oil boiler while they’re away. Many people share this common concern as they want to save energy, stay safe, and prevent any issues that could occur while they’re not around.
In this blog post, we’ll bring clarity to the situation and provide you with some helpful tips to make an informed decision. Click the links to go straight to the section you’re most interested in.
Should You Turn Your Boiler Off When on Holiday?
Switching off your oil fired boiler while you’re away from home can lead to energy savings and reduced utility costs. However, the time of year you’re on holiday can influence your decision regarding whether to leave the boiler on.
During the Summer Months
You can safely turn your oil boiler off during the summer without any concerns for your home or heating system. The warm weather allows you to enjoy your vacation without relying on your unit to keep your property warm.
One of the primary concerns when it comes to leaving your boiler on during a holiday is energy efficiency. Oil boilers consume fuel to produce heat, even when there’s no demand for hot water or heating in your home. By turning the boiler off while you’re away, you can save money on energy and reduce your carbon footprint.
During the Winter Months
When planning a winter holiday, it’s wise to leave your oil boiler on while you’re away, especially when temperature drops significantly. Consistently running the boiler maintains a steady temperature and prevents pipes from freezing, helping you save on costly repairs. Leaving your boiler on at a low temperature also prevents condensation, moisture buildup, and reduces the risk of mould and dampness.
Remember to book your
oil boiler servicing with our OFTEC-registered engineers to ensure safe and efficient operation throughout winter.
What to Do With Your Oil Central Heating Boiler When on Holiday
There are several actions you can take to maintain your central heating system during your holiday. These include:
Setting a Timer for Your Oil Boiler
If you feel uneasy about keeping your oil boiler running while you’re away, there’s a simple solution. Set a timer to run your boiler for an hour or so each day. Identify the coldest time of day in your region and schedule your system to activate then. Setting a timer during cold spells will
prevent your fixtures and heating oil from freezing and provide peace of mind.
Using a Smart Thermostat
There’s no need to keep your heating at a high temperature setting while you’re away. Instead, adjust your thermostat to a range between 15°C and 18°C degrees. Doing so will maintain a comfortable, yet cost-efficient level of warmth in your home.
Modern temperature regulators are excellent tools for ensuring optimal comfort. With advanced units, you can schedule the heating to turn on just before your return.
Using the Antifreeze Setting on Your Oil Boiler
Most modern boilers have a frost protection mode, which maintains a low temperature that’s above freezing. The temperature is typically around 5°C to 10°C. This degree of heat safeguards against frozen pipes or potential damage caused by extremely low temperatures. The antifreeze setting is particularly useful for shorter holidays when you want to conserve energy while ensuring the system’s safety.
Discover more ways to increase oil boiler efficiency.
Asking Friends or Family for Help
If none of the methods above suit you, consider asking for help from relatives, close friends, or even a trusted neighbour. Kindly request their help in turning on your oil boiler periodically while you’re away. Asking for help could potentially save you from incurring additional costs in the long run.
Is It Safe to Turn My Boiler Off When on Holiday?
When it comes to managing your boiler during a vacation, a few key considerations can go a long way. While it’s perfectly fine to switch your boiler off when you embark on a summer holiday, you should adopt a different approach during the winter. In this case, keep your boiler operating at a low temperature and make sure to maintain it well beforehand.
Importantly, it’s crucial to stay on top of your boiler’s maintenance by scheduling an annual inspection with your heating oil company. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a worry-free break while keeping your boiler in optimal condition.
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