Figuring out temperature on Glowworm Economy Plus Boiler

Gowingnator

Hi all, as probably many people are doing, I'm trying to figure out what my temperature is on my Glowworm Economy Plus Boiler.

It has a dial, 1 - 4, but no where in the manual does it state what numbers these represent in form of temperature.

Anyone got an idea as it would be handy to know.

Thanks!

lohr500

I think the best way to determine the boiler running temperature is to get a couple of clip-on pipe thermometers to measure the flow and reurn temperatures around the central heating circuit.
Something like these : 

https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/dial-thermometers/4315621

I have two of these attached to the flow and return pipes to my oil boiler and have been able to set the boiler thermostat and circulating pump speed so I can usually get around a 60 deg flow and 40 deg return.

BUFF

How old is this boiler?
If, as I suspect, it is non-condensing then in terms of efficiency it won't really matter what flow temp. you run at.

tacpot12

BUFF said:

How old is this boiler?
If, as I suspect, it is non-condensing then in terms of efficiency it won't really matter what flow temp. you run at.

Good spot! This website suggests that the boiler is not a condensing boiler: Glow-worm Economy Plus 40B Gas - Boiler Efficiency Rating (homeheatingguide.co.uk)

Although BUFF is correct that you won't improve on the efficiency much, you might save a little if you can bring the temperature down. What you will save depends on whether you have a hot water cylinder, and what controls your system has, e.g. a room thermostat and/or cylinder stat. 

You need to be careful about lowering the temperature too much as you might bring the temperature of any stored hot water down in a region where legionella activity is not inhibited, or to a point where you can't heat your house to the temperature you want in the depths of winter.  A pipe thermostat would be a good idea. 

FreeBear

tacpot12 said: You need to be careful about lowering the temperature too much as you might bring the temperature of any stored hot water down in a region where legionella activity is not inhibited, or to a point where you can't heat your house to the temperature you want in the depths of winter.  A pipe thermostat would be a good idea. 

Anything above 50°C will ensure legonella is killed off. The higher the temperature, the quicker it will be killed off IF there is any in the water supply. With less than 250 cases reported annually, the risk is minimal at best.

Aim for a domestic hot water temperature of 50-55°C, and a central heating temperature of 60-70°C and you'll not freeze or die of any 'orrible water bourne disease.

If you had a condensing boiler, I'd have suggested aiming for a return flow temperature of 50°C or less.