Reducing heating costs and heating properly

In short: Heating is the biggest energy item in many households. With temperature control, bleeding, proper ventilation and a well-adjusted system you can often save 10 to 20 % without being cold.

In more detail: What matters are room temperature, the heating’s settings and behaviour. Technical measures such as insulation add to this.

In Depth

• Temperature: Living rooms about 20 °C, bedroom 16 to 18 °C, bathroom warmer as needed. As a rule of thumb one degree less saves about 6 % of heating energy.
• Thermostats: Programmable or smart radiator thermostats lower the temperature automatically when away and at night. Do not put furniture or curtains in front of radiators.
• Bleeding: If a radiator gurgles or is not warm at the top, release the air. Afterwards check the system pressure.
• Hydraulic balancing: Ensures each radiator gets the right amount of water. Reduces consumption and eliminates noise. A prerequisite for many subsidies.
• Flow temperature: The lower the heating curve at which rooms still get warm, the less energy. Together with a heating pump that regulates on demand.
• Ventilating: Air several times a day with short bursts, do not leave windows tilted permanently (see ventilation and mould).
• Draughts: Check window and door seals, close shutters at night, insulate shutter boxes.
• Monitor consumption: Note meter readings regularly. Check the service-charge statement (service charge statement).

See also: heat pump, energy certificate and insulation