Smart electric heating: how programming helps save on your bills
4 min read
When winter begins to show its face, turning your heaters back on becomes an essential act. But did you know that this simple action has a direct impact on your energy bill? So, how can you optimize your heating to get through a comfortable winter while managing your expenses? Axelle Sulliot, marketing manager at Atlantic, shares practical methods and effective tips. This comprehensive guide will explain why choosing the right radiator and using connected technology are essential for saving money.
Choosing the right radiator for optimal heating
One of the first levers to lighten your heating bill is to choose a radiator suited to your needs. Axelle Sulliot emphasizes two essential criteria to consider: the insulation of your home and your lifestyle. For those who are often away, radiators with reactive heat bodies, such as aluminum models, offer quick temperature rises. On the other hand, those who spend a lot of time at home will benefit more from inertia radiators, which ensure a uniform heat throughout the day.
Inertia radiators: These models, whether fluid or cast iron, store heat to gradually release it. They guarantee a stable temperature, limiting spikes in consumption.
Electric radiators: One of their great advantages is that each kWh consumed corresponds effectively to 1 kWh billed, allowing for precise consumption control.
Investing in a modern and connected radiator may seem costly at first, but it is a strategic long-term choice. For example, Atlantic offers connected radiators starting at €450, and their average lifespan ranges from 10 to 15 years. In this context, a high-performance radiator can potentially reduce your annual energy bill by 30%, thereby improving the DPE (Energy Performance Diagnosis) of your home.
Why invest in connected radiators?
Connectivity is also a significant ally in optimizing your thermal comfort. Connected radiators allow you to manage your heating system remotely, adjusting the temperature according to your schedule. By analyzing consumption habits, these devices automatically adapt the heating to your specific needs.
Type of radiator | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
Aluminum | Quick temperature rise | May be less effective for prolonged absences |
Fluid inertia | Uniform heating, energy savings | Response time a bit longer |
Cast iron inertia | Durability and thermal comfort | Heavy weight, complex installation |
Connected | Remote management, energy savings | Initial purchase cost |
Maximizing energy savings with programming
Once equipped with the right model, it's crucial to ensure proper management to optimize your heating. Programming is one of the most important aspects to consider. Axelle offers practical daily tips:
Recommended temperatures: ADEME recommends turning on your heating in bedrooms when the temperature drops below 16 °C. For living areas, 18 °C is ideal, while bathrooms can be heated to 22 °C just before a shower.
Short absences: If you're away for a few hours, maintain the temperature instead of turning off the radiator, which will ensure optimal comfort upon your return.
Prolonged absences: Opt for the "eco" mode which reduces the temperature to about 16 °C, and switch to "anti-freeze" mode if you're away for more than a week.
Programming your device for additional savings
If your radiator is programmable, using it wisely can really help you reduce your bills. You can set it to eco mode during the day when you're not home.
Indeed, connected radiators offer this feature automatically, switching to eco mode after analyzing your lifestyle over a period of 15 days. Regular maintenance, such as dusting, is recommended, but it is not necessary to bleed electric models.
What mistakes should be avoided for effective heating?
With the increase in the use of electric radiators, some common mistakes persist in many households. Here are some of the most frequent:
Not replacing old models: Using energy-hungry radiators like convectors can heavily weigh on your bill.
Not maintaining your system: A poorly maintained radiator can lose efficiency, leading to overconsumption.
Ignoring insulation: Poor insulation can negate all the savings made on your heating.
Common mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
Keeping old radiators | Overconsumption of energy | Replace with modern models |
Lack of maintenance | Decreases efficiency | Dust and inspect |
Poor insulation | Heat losses | Optimize the insulation of the home |
The best brands of electric radiators on the market
In the field of electric heating, several brands stand out for the quality of their products. Here are some of the best brands you should consider for your next purchase:
Atlantic: Known for their efficient and connected radiators.
Noirot: Recognized for their innovative inertia devices.
Thermor: Offers a wide range of low-consumption radiators.
Dimplex: Known for their next-generation heating systems.
Sauter: Offer effective products adapted to various needs.
Caleo: Specialist in radiant floor heating.
Alde: Known for their efficient central heating solutions.
Lunartec: Expert in low-cost heating systems.
CLIMATIK: Offers various systems suited to each home.
FAQ on intelligent electric heating
Which types of radiators are the most economical?
Inertia radiators, particularly those made of cast iron or fluid, tend to be more economical as they maintain a uniform heat, thus reducing energy consumption.
How do I program my radiators for maximum efficiency?
Use eco modes during your short or long absences. Set your devices to detect your schedule and adjust temperatures without manual intervention.
What is the lifespan of a modern electric radiator?
On average, a modern electric radiator, such as those offered by Atlantic, has a lifespan of between 10 and 15 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
What should I do if my heating is not working properly?
First, make sure to check the power supply. If the problem persists, it is advisable to call a professional for repair.
Are connected radiators really more economical?
Yes, on average, users of connected radiators report savings of up to 30% on their energy bills, thanks to optimized management and adapted programming.