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In the Midlands, programmer Tom\u00e1s McGuinness has designed a different gizmo that uses sensors to read the flow temperatures on his boiler. It sends a notification to a smartphone app if the return flow rises above 55C, the approximate point at which the boiler would stop condensing. He can then fine-tune the temperature manually.<\/p>\n
“My little sensor system, I could probably put it together for about a tenner,” he says. Via Twitter, he’s found several people who are willing to try prototypes of his device, which he says he might go on to produce for sale.<\/p>\n
This and other measures, such as reducing his boiler’s power consumption and insulating his home, have helped him take control of his energy expenditure, he adds.<\/p>\n
However, Mr McGuinness says he is still concerned about the continuing rise in bills. <\/p>\n
Mr Pschierer-Barnfather agrees, adding that he feels “lucky” to have the skills required to reduce his gas bill slightly. He argues that fellow techies are in a position to help others shield themselves from energy price rises.<\/p>\n
“For people who haven’t got double glazing or haven’t been able to do what I have with their boiler, they’re going to get the full whack of this.<\/p>\n
“We can help. We’re a slightly geeky minority\u2026 I feel that there’s more that we can do.”<\/p>\n
More efficient boilers should be the norm, he says. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n