Why You Should Run Your Heating System Monthly — Even in Summer

When summer arrives, it’s easy to forget about your heating system. After all, you’re more likely to be thinking about barbecues and beach trips than boilers and radiators.

But as a trusted, Gas Safe–registered heating and plumbing specialist in Herne Bay with over 20 years of experience, Gulvin’s Heating and Plumbing Services knows that ignoring your heating for months can be a costly mistake.

By running your heating system for just 10–15 minutes once a month during the warmer months, you can prevent problems, extend your boiler’s life, and ensure it’s ready to deliver reliable warmth when the colder weather returns. Here’s why it matters — and how you can keep your system in peak condition.

1. Prevent Mechanical Issues Before They Happen

When your heating system sits idle for months, mechanical components can seize up. Pumps may stop circulating water efficiently, motorised valves can stick, and ignition systems may struggle to fire up after a long break.

Running the system briefly every month keeps all moving parts lubricated and working smoothly. Think of it like starting a car that’s been parked for a while — a regular “exercise” run ensures everything stays in working order, reducing the risk of a sudden breakdown just when you need heating the most.

Older boilers, in particular, benefit from this monthly activity. It prevents seals from drying out, keeps bearings turning, and stops rust or sediment from building up in places where water normally flows.

2. Spot Hidden Problems Early

Running your heating occasionally in summer isn’t just about keeping it limber — it’s also a great way to identify hidden faults before they become expensive emergencies.

By giving your system a short test run, you might notice:

• Unusual noises — banging, whistling, or gurgling can signal air in the system, pump issues, or limescale buildup.

• Leaks — small drips from pipework or the boiler casing can worsen quickly if left unchecked.

• Warning lights or error codes — modern boilers display alerts that you can address before the heating season begins.

Catching these problems early gives you plenty of time to book a repair at your convenience, rather than scrambling for an emergency call-out in the first cold snap of autumn.

3. Avoid Excess Heat (and Higher Energy Bills)

Some boilers continue to produce heat for hot water even in summer, which can cause unwanted warmth to radiate into your home via uninsulated pipes. This not only makes your living space warmer than you’d like but also forces your cooling systems (like fans or air conditioning) to work harder.

To prevent wasted energy, you can:

• Switch your boiler to summer mode (if available) so it only heats water and not your central heating.

• Lower the boiler temperature to around 50–55°C for domestic hot water during summer.

• Insulate exposed hot water pipes to keep heat where it’s needed.

A quick monthly run of the heating won’t cause significant heat gain in your home — but it will stop the system from becoming dormant while still keeping summer energy bills under control.

4. Save Money (and Effort) in the Long Run

Many homeowners think turning the boiler off completely in summer will save money. While it may reduce energy use in the short term, it can lead to costly repairs later. A seized pump, for example, can cost far more to replace than the small amount of gas used in a monthly maintenance run.

By keeping the system active, you’re protecting your investment. Boilers aren’t cheap — and with a well-maintained unit lasting 10–15 years or more, the small summer effort pays for itself many times over.

5. Be Ready for Autumn — No Surprises

There’s nothing worse than switching on your heating for the first chilly night in September or October… only to find it doesn’t work.

By running your heating monthly in summer, you’ll have confidence that when the temperature drops, your system will respond immediately. No waiting days for an engineer, no wearing extra jumpers indoors, and no sudden “first cold snap” breakdowns that happen when engineers are already booked solid.

Why Trust Gulvin’s Heating and Plumbing Services?

At Gulvin’s Heating and Plumbing Services, we’ve built our reputation in Herne Bay and the surrounding Kent area by delivering honest, transparent, and high-quality heating solutions. When it comes to keeping your boiler in top shape, we offer:

• Local, family-run expertise — over 20 years of hands-on experience serving our community.

• Gas Safe–registered engineers — ensuring every job meets the highest safety and compliance standards.

• Tailored Heating Care Service Plans — with options for summer check-ins, priority call-outs, and full annual servicing.

• Upfront, honest pricing — no hidden charges, ever.

Whether you need a one-off boiler service, a summer health check, or a full care plan, we’re here to keep your heating running smoothly all year round.

Benefits of Monthly Heating Use

Your boiler might not be the first thing you think about when the sun is shining, but a little attention now can save you headaches later. By running your heating system for just 10–15 minutes each month — even in summer — you’ll keep it healthy, efficient, and ready for action.

Don’t wait for winter to discover a problem. Book your summer boiler check with Gulvin’s Heating and Plumbing Services today and enjoy peace of mind all year round.

Contact Gulvins Heating and Plumbing Services today to discuss your heating and plumbing needs today.