How you use your boiler in winter can make a surprisingly big difference to your gas bill. Even changing just one setting can save you quite a bit on heating costs, so go ahead and take a look at your boiler right now!

1. Choose the Right Heating Mode for Your Home

Your boiler controller (thermostat) usually offers two heating modes: room heating and ondol heating.

  • Room heating mode: Detects the air temperature near the controller and heats the room based on that. This mode works well for homes with good insulation, homes where you mainly use a bed, and newer apartments with little drafts.
  • Ondol heating mode: Controls the floor temperature based on the water temperature inside the boiler. This mode is better if your controller is installed near a window, or if you spend a lot of time sitting or sleeping on the floor.

2. Use Hot Water in One Longer Session Rather Than Several Short Ones

Heating water for domestic use actually consumes more gas than heating your home. If you run hot water in several short bursts, the boiler has to start up from scratch each time, which wastes a lot of energy. When showering or washing dishes, try to do it all in one go rather than stopping and starting. This alone can noticeably reduce your gas bill.

3. Should You Turn the Boiler Off When You Go Out?

The best setting depends on how long you will be away.

  • Out for 6 hours or less: Do not turn the boiler off. Switch it to away mode instead. If your boiler does not have an away mode button, simply lower the temperature to around 16°C. Keeping it running at a low level actually uses less gas than turning it off completely.
  • Away for a full day or longer: Turning the boiler off is the better choice for saving energy.

4. The Right Indoor Temperature Is 18°C to 21°C

The most effective way to keep heating costs down is to maintain your indoor temperature between 18°C and 21°C. It is generally said that lowering your thermostat setting by just 1°C can reduce your heating bill by about 7%. Setting the temperature too high will drive your gas bill up quickly.

5. Clean Your Boiler Every 6 Months to a Year

If your boiler goes a long time without cleaning, dust and debris build up inside, and it needs more energy to heat the water. Cleaning it regularly, once every six months to a year, can make a noticeable difference to heating efficiency.

Need Help?

If you need support with everyday living information, heating issues, or anything else, feel free to reach out to MAP (Migration to Asia Peace). MAP provides counseling for refugees and migrants in Korean and several other languages.

  • Email: map@mapcast.org
  • Website: http://mapcast.org
  • Location: 27-17 Dongho-ro 24-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Dongdaipgu Station, Subway Line 3)
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00, 18:00 / Phone consultations: Wednesday and Thursday, 13:00, 17:00

Stay warm and well this winter!