Learn how adjusting your radiator dials can improve heating efficiency and lower energy bills
City: Your radiators might be sneaky little energy hogs.
When winter hits, we all want to stay warm without breaking the bank. But many folks don’t realize that those dials on their radiators could be the culprits behind high energy bills. They’re often overlooked, but they actually play a big role in how efficiently your home heats up.
A DIY expert named Jasmine recently shared some eye-opening tips in a viral TikTok video. She explained that the numbers on the radiator dial, known as thermostatic valves, control when hot water flows into the radiator. If you set it wrong, you could be wasting energy.
Jasmine broke it down simply: “0 means off, and the star setting kicks in when the room drops below seven degrees. Each number corresponds to a specific temperature, so if you crank it up too high, you’re just telling the radiator to keep pumping in hot water, which isn’t great for your wallet.”
For rooms you use a lot, find a comfy temperature and set the dial there. For less-used spaces, try setting it to one. And if you’re going away, the frost setting is a smart move—it keeps your pipes from freezing without wasting energy.
One boiler expert chimed in, suggesting you keep the dial at three or higher when you’re home. Lower than that, and the radiator might not do much at all. Many people were surprised to learn this, with some saying they always kept their dials on five or higher.
Comments flooded in, with users thanking Jasmine for the tips. One person said, “Why didn’t I know this before? I’ve always just left mine on three!” Another added, “So helpful! I thought six meant it would be super hot.”
