Control Your Central Heating Remotely

British Gas are launching a service, called Remote Heating Control, which allows customers to control their central heating remotely. No more late night returns from holiday to a cold house and of course the opportunity to save money if you’re away longer than expected.

The Remote Heating Control system works via a laptop, mobile, mobile, smartphone or iPad and enables you to

• Switch on your heating before you get home or
• Switch off your heating if you end up staying away longer than planned.

The system connects via the internet to a wireless hub in your house that then connects to your boiler and a programmable thermostat.

Dean Keeling, managing director of British Gas’ smart homes division said it: “Will give customers greater peace of mind by allowing them to schedule and adjust their heating on the go, so they only need to heat their home when they need to.”

An engineer is required to install the system and this costs £149 if you’re buying a new central heating system at the same time or £199 if you’re an existing customer and need the control system retrofitted.

MoneyHighStreet commented: “British Gas research shows that if you leave your boiler on when at work or during a weekend away, you spend on average £140 more a year on energy bills.

“Clearly with this remote control system, over time, you will be able to save money, albeit not in the first year.

Tom Lyon, energy expert at uSwitch.com, says: “With energy prices rocketing by some £730 since 2004, many consumers have been left feeling that they have no control over their bills. This innovative tool provides them with the means to make substantial savings and will suit those who live a particularly hectic lifestyle.

and added it will: “Suit those with a mobile phone or computer and it won’t be of benefit to those who are planning to move house in the next year as it will remain fixed to a household boiler.

“But those who really use it could enjoy some good savings in the long term and it will encourage them to get more engaged with their energy usage and bills.

“However, it remains to be seen whether or not cash-strapped consumers will be prepared to make this investment in these difficult financial times.”

MoneyHighStreet added: “Even without this new system, there are a lot of ways you can save energy and thereby save money.

“For example, how about switching lights off when you leave a room? Or when boiling a kettle to make a mug of coffee, only boil enough water to make the single mug and not several mugs of coffee.

“Technology is great to have, but sometimes it’s important to remember the simple, no cost things too that can help you save money straight away.”