Overview
- Consumer group Which? advises keeping thermostatic radiator valves below three except in the room with the main thermostat, suggesting bedrooms stay at two to three to avoid unnecessary energy use.
- Heating specialists urge steady thermostat targets of roughly 18–21°C, noting that turning the dial higher does not warm rooms faster and that each extra degree around 19–20°C can add about 10% to annual heating costs.
- Routine maintenance—bleeding radiators, clearing space around them and checking boiler pressure after bleeding—can restore efficiency, with UK Radiators estimating neglect can cost households roughly £400–£600 a year.
- Cleaning dust and debris from inside and behind radiators using a hairdryer or vacuum can improve heat output, with cleaning experts claiming this quick task could reduce bills by around 25%.
- Low-cost measures such as reflective foil behind radiators, heavy door curtains and draught-proofing help retain heat, with Salford University tests indicating thick curtains can cut window heat loss by about one-third to two-fifths, though savings will vary by home.