Leave the heating on all the time or turn it off? The winter months come with the promise of snow and warm evenings by the fireplace. However, they also bring with them a dilemma - whether to leave the heating on all the time or to turn it off when we are away. At first glance, it may seem like leaving the heating on is the cheaper and easier option, but experts may think otherwise.
As the temperatures drop, conversations begin about when is the right time to start the central heating and how to heat. Leave the heating on all the time or turn it off? Some swear by leaving the radiators on all day at a lower temperature, while others suggest turning it off.
Experts suggest that the idea of keeping the heating on all day is just a myth. In fact, the Energy Saving Trust points out that keeping the heating on only when you need it is the best way to save energy and consequently money in the long run. Although switching the heating on and off may seem less cost-effective as the system works harder to reach the desired temperature when it is switched back on, in practice the opposite is true. Constant heating to a certain target temperature is much more expensive. We hope we have answered - whether to leave the heating on all the time or to turn it off.
Turning off the heating system, even just for a few hours a day, can help save money between 5% and 20% of energy costs over the year. If you have a programmable oven, you can try this yourself. Set the thermostat to turn the heating on in the morning, turn it off when you're not home, and turn it on when you get home.
Home insulation is key. Homes lose heat through windows, walls, doors and even chimneys. If you leave the heating on all day, the costs quickly add up and increase your energy bill.
Therefore, experts advise using timers that allow the heating to be turned on and off when you need it most, without fear of forgetting to turn it off1. It is also important to identify where heat is escaping from your home. If your home is well insulated, you'll use less energy, whether you leave the heating on all day or use a timer. The smaller the heat losses, the less energy you will use to achieve a pleasant temperature in your home.
Properly managing your heating system can be the key to a more comfortable and economical home during the winter months. Don't let the heating myths confuse you; instead, turn to the experts and find the best strategy for your home.