Timer or programmer
Most houses have far too few controls on their space-heating systems. For only a small outlay, you can rectify this easily. Ideally, the space heating and domestic hot-water circuits should be separate. A time clock or programmer will allow the householder to ensure that the boiler will operate to provide heat only when required for various heating periods during different days of the week and also (with suitable motorised valves) allowing separate control of the water heating. This will guarantee that the domestic hot water can be provided in the summer using the boiler even though central heating is not required.
Room thermostat
By installing a thermostat in an area of the house that is indicative of the general heat conditions required, this will turn the burner off when the temperature in the area rises or falls below the value at which you have set the dial. 18-20°C will be sufficient in most cases.
Thermostatic Radiator Valve (TRV)
TRVs may be installed instead of the hand-wheel valve. The TRV has a number of settings, which the householder may use to set the desired air temperature for each room. In locations where a high level of heating is required, e.g., living area, the TRV will be set at the top setting. If only background heating is desired, e.g., hallways, then the valve can be fixed at its lowest setting.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your heating system can reduce fuel consumption e.g. maintain the boiler casing and burner, and check for corrosion and airlocks in the radiators.
Portable heaters
When buying portable heaters, make sure that they are the right size for the rooms they are to heat, and that they have thermostatic controls. Use a space or portable heater instead of the central heater if only one room needs heating.
