Should You Turn Off Your Boiler Completely in the Summer? Exploring the Pros and Cons

When summer arrives, homeowners ponder whether they should turn off their boiler completely or keep it running. This decision has pros and cons, with no one-size-fits-all solution. Turning off the boiler can save energy and extend its lifespan but may require alternative hot water heating and risking condensation buildup. Leaving it on ensures hot water availability but consumes standby power. Ultimately, the choice hinges on priorities like energy efficiency, hot water needs, climate, and boiler age. Evaluating individual circumstances is crucial to determine if fully shutting down or keeping the boiler idling is the wiser summer strategy.

The Pros and Cons of Turning Off Your Boiler in Summer

Pros of Turning Off Your Boiler in Summer	Cons of Turning Off Your Boiler in Summer
Energy Savings	Hot Water Heater Implications
Eliminates standby energy draw: Even when not actively heating, a boiler consumes a small amount of energy to run auxiliary components like the circulator pump and electronics. By shutting it down, you eliminate this energy usage, leading to lower utility bills.	Need alternative water heating methods: If your home's hot water supply is heated by the boiler, turning it off in summer means you'll have to find an alternative way to heat your water for showers, dishwashing, and other household needs. This could involve switching to an electric or tankless water heater.
Lowers utility bills: Reduced energy consumption translates directly to lower utility bills, providing financial savings over the summer months.	Potentially less energy-efficient options: Alternative water heating methods, such as electric water heaters, may be less energy-efficient compared to a boiler system.
	Additional installation costs: Setting up alternative water heating systems can incur additional costs, both in terms of equipment and installation.
Extended Lifespan	Condensation and Moisture Buildup
Reduces wear and tear: Keeping your boiler running continuously puts wear and tear on its components. Giving it a break during the summer months when heating isn't needed can help extend its overall lifespan.	Reduces wear and tear: Keeping your boiler running continuously puts wear and tear on its components. Giving it a break during the summer months when heating isn't needed can help extend its overall lifespan.
Beneficial for older systems: This is especially beneficial for older boiler systems that may be nearing the end of their expected service life.	Particularly a concern in damp or humid climates: Moisture buildup is a significant concern in damp or humid climates, where the risk of corrosion is higher.
Safety	Restart Difficulties
Less risk of gas leaks: With no fuel being burned and no heated water circulating, there's less risk of potential hazards like gas leaks.	Possible difficulties in restarting after shutdown: After being shut down for several months, some boilers may experience difficulties when you try to restart them in the fall.
Reduces carbon monoxide exposure: Shutting down the boiler eliminates the risk of carbon monoxide exposure, making your home safer.	Older systems may require professional servicing: older boiler systems, in particular, might require professional servicing to get them up and running again smoothly after a prolonged shutdown.
Decreases scalding accidents: Without hot water circulating through the system, the risk of scalding accidents is significantly reduced.

The Verdict 

For households with access to an alternative water heating source like a tankless or electric water heater, and located in a dry, arid climate, the recommended solution is to turn off your boiler completely in the summer. This allows you to maximise energy savings by eliminating the boiler's standby power draw, while also reducing wear and tear to potentially extend its lifespan. The dry climate mitigates concerns around condensation buildup in the boiler and piping during the offseason.

Choose Corvee Property Services today!

Don't let boiler worries weigh you down this summer! The experts at Corvee Property Services can evaluate your home's heating system and provide personalised guidance on whether turning off your boiler completely is the right move. Our team of certified HVAC technicians will assess your setup, climate, hot water needs, and more to recommend the optimal summer strategy. Book online for our services and contact today!