With the summer holiday season approaching, one of the most common questions we receive at NJ Lees is about managing heating systems while away from home. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended summer holiday, proper boiler management can save you money and prevent potential disasters upon your return. Here’s our comprehensive guide to preparing your heating system before you jet off.
Summer vs Winter Considerations
The time of year you’re travelling plays the most crucial role in determining what to do with your boiler:
Summer Holidays
If you’re heading off during the warmer months, turning your boiler off completely is generally the most sensible option. As we’ve noted in our article on boiler efficiency, modern boilers consume energy even in standby mode, so a complete shutdown will maximise your energy savings.
For summer holidays, we recommend:
- Switching your boiler off at the main control panel
- Turning your hot water schedule to “off” or “holiday mode” if available
- Leaving your heating timer in the “off” position
As there’s minimal risk of freezing during summer, you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about pipe damage or frost issues.
Although you should always check if your home insurance policy recommends that you do something else.
Winter Getaways
Winter presents a different scenario entirely. Turning your boiler off completely during cold months can lead to serious problems:
- Frozen pipes that can burst when they thaw
- Damage to your central heating system
- Potential water damage to your property
- A freezing cold house upon your return
Instead, we recommend setting your heating to a low background temperature between 12-15°C. This is warm enough to prevent freezing while saving energy costs significantly compared to your normal heating schedule.
Again, it’s recommended that you check your home insurance policies for advice when leaving your property unattended.
Modern Boiler Features to Utilise
Many contemporary boilers include features specifically designed for holiday periods:
Anti-Freeze Protection
If your boiler has an anti-freeze or frost protection mode, this is ideal for winter holidays. This setting automatically activates the heating system if temperatures approach freezing point, providing just enough warmth to protect your pipework without wasting energy heating an empty house.
As we highlighted in our signs you need to replace your boiler article, older boilers often lack these energy-saving features. If your current system is approaching 10-15 years old, consider an upgrade before next winter’s getaways.
Smart Controls
For those with smart thermostats, holiday management becomes even easier:
- Set specific “away” temperatures
- Program your heating to resume shortly before your return
- Monitor and adjust your heating remotely if weather conditions change
Smart controls provide both convenience and peace of mind, allowing you to respond to unexpected cold snaps even while abroad.
Additional Holiday Preparations
Beyond your boiler settings, several other steps can help secure your property’s plumbing while you’re away:
Water Supply Considerations
For extended absences, particularly in summer, consider turning off your mains water supply at the stopcock. This simple precaution can prevent catastrophic water damage from unexpected leaks or burst pipes.
Just be aware that some boiler models (particularly older ones) may require a constant water supply to function properly. If you have a combi boiler with frost protection that you want to leave active, check your manual before shutting off the water supply.
Pre-Departure Checks
Before leaving, it’s worth conducting some basic checks:
- Ensure your boiler pressure is within the correct range (typically 1-1.5 bar)
- Check for any visible leaks around your system
- Clear space around your boiler for proper ventilation
- Run through a complete heating cycle to ensure everything is working properly
Long-Term Absences
If you’re planning to be away for more than a month, particularly during changing seasons, consider:
- Arranging for a trusted friend or family member to check on your property periodically
- Scheduling a quick boiler service before your return if you’ll be away during summer and returning for the heating season
- Setting timers to run your heating system for a short period every few days to prevent components from seizing
The Importance of Regular Servicing
One of the best ways to ensure your boiler performs reliably while you’re away is through regular maintenance. As we’ve discussed in our guide on maximising boiler performance, annual servicing not only extends your boiler’s lifespan but also ensures it operates safely and efficiently.
If your boiler is due for a service, consider scheduling it before an extended holiday. Our team of Worthing heating engineers can check for potential issues and ensure your system is in optimal condition before you depart.
For homeowners in Worthing planning their summer holidays, now is the perfect time to book a pre-holiday boiler check. Our Gas Safe registered engineers will ensure your heating system is properly configured for your absence, giving you complete peace of mind while you’re away. Contact NJ Lees today to arrange your appointment and enjoy your holiday knowing your home is protected.
