Should I turn my boiler off in the summer? Essentially boiler tips for the warmer months
Monday, 9 June 2025
There is plenty to love about a bright and warm summer, as the outside temperatures rise and our heating bills fall. Provided there are no unseasonal chilly spells (which is always possible, this is Britain after all) it's usually a safe bet to turn off the central heating. But what about your boiler? Is it safe and advised to turn it off completely during the warmer months? It's a common question, but the answer depends on your boiler type and your hot water requirements. Read on to find out what option will best suit your home.
Do you need your boiler on in summer? (Heating vs hot water)
While you'll hopefully not need to have the radiators on in your home during the summer, you're still likely to want hot water. And so if your home uses a combi boiler that provides hot water on demand, you'll need to keep it switched on for showers, baths and washing up.
However, if you have a system or regular boiler with a hot water tank, there is something you can do. When the outside temperature is warmer, the water in your tank should retain its heat for longer, meaning your boiler needn't be called into action as often. In this case, switch your heating off, leave the hot water function on, but adjust the timers or reduce how frequently the tank is heated. If you have an electric shower or dishwasher, you should be able to reduce that frequency even further, as both appliances will heat the water without the requirement of the boiler.
Pros and cons of turning the boiler completely off
Switching your boiler off entirely during the summer can offer some advantages. One of the main benefits is energy savings, especially if you have an older boiler with a continuously burning pilot light, as this can use unnecessary gas even when the boiler isn't actively heating. Reducing your boiler's operation also means less wear and tear, which can extend its lifespan.
But before you dash to hit the off switch, there are a few potential downsides to consider. Some boilers benefit from being used occasionally, as it helps prevent internal components such as pumps and valves from seizing due to inactivity. There's also the matter of convenience: if you turn the boiler off completely, you'll need to remember to switch it back on when you need hot water. Realising you'd forgotten to do so during an ice cold morning shower isn't the optimal start to the day.
If you want to strike a balance, check whether your boiler has an eco mode or the option to heat hot water separately from central heating. This allows you to keep essential functions running without using more energy than necessary. Also look into whether lowering the thermostat on your hot water setting can help reduce energy usage while still maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Pros
- Energy savings
- Less wear and tear
- Lower running costs
Cons
- Risk of component issues
- Loss of hot water
- Inconvenience
Summer maintenance tips for your boiler (while it's off or on low use)
Because boilers are typically used much less, and because heating engineers tend to be lower in demand, summer is the ideal time to give your boiler some TLC. It's a smart time to book your annual boiler service, ensuring everything is in good working order before the colder months arrive. At Koziwarm, we recommend scheduling your service during this quieter period to avoid the frantic autumn rush. After all, the worst time to find out your boiler has a serious issue is when you really need it.
It's also worth cleaning around your boiler, as dust and debris can affect its performance. Make sure vents and pipework are clear and unobstructed. Even though your heating might not be in regular use, it's a good idea to turn it on briefly every few weeks. Running the system for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can help keep internal parts like the pump moving smoothly and prevent potential issues.
Also take a moment to adjust your hot water settings. As mentioned above, enable any eco mode and consider lowering the hot water temperature slightly to improve energy efficiency without sacrificing comfort. These simple steps can help keep your system running efficiently all year round. To summarise:
- Book your annual service
- Clean the area around your boiler
- Keep your boiler occasionally active
- Adjust hot water eco settings
Preparing to restart your heating in autumn
When the days start to get shorter and the temperatures begin to dip again, it's not only your cue to start planning your next holiday. It's also time to consider your autumn heating plans. Thankfully, there's not too much to do. But you should bleed your radiators to remove any trapped air, and also make sure to check your boiler pressure to make sure all is in working order. And if it's not? Get in touch with us here at Koziwarm.
Summer boiler assistance with Koziwarm
At Koziwarm we're happy to assist with summer maintenance, servicing, and offer expert advice about your boiler. We're a respected family-run business with over 40 years of installing, repairing, and maintaining gas boilers all over the North East, whether you're in Wallsend, North Shields, or North Tyneside. Our experienced and trustworthy Gas Safe engineers can provide a diagnosis of any boiler faults and ensure a swift repair.