When should you turn on the heating?

Every year, as the weather starts to cool in September, a familiar debate arises: when should you turn the heating back on? Many people try to delay as long as possible, but is there an ideal time to switch it on? And how should you manage your heating day-to-day? Let’s explore these questions.

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When should you turn on the heating?

The general rule is to turn the heating on when you begin to feel cold, especially if there are vulnerable people in your home, such as older adults or those with medical conditions.

In a survey of our social media community, 58% said they wait as long as possible before turning on their heating, while 33% had already done so by mid-September. It’s often suggested that people switch on their heating when outside temperatures consistently fall below 15°C. According to the Met Office, this usually happens around October, though an early cold spell may prompt you to turn it on sooner.

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Is it okay to turn the heating on earlier?

If your heating controls are set correctly, your boiler will only activate when the temperature drops low enough, so it’s fine to turn the heating on whenever you think it might be needed. Your system will only heat the home when necessary.

Setting your room thermostat between 18°C and 21°C is a good starting point, ensuring your home stays warm without unnecessary energy use. Lowering your thermostat from 22°C to 21°C could save up to ￡90 per year in Great Britain and ￡105 in Northern Ireland. However, it’s still a good idea to switch off your heating entirely during summer to avoid wasting energy.

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What’s the best time of day to run the heating?

A good approach is to set your heating to turn on about 30 minutes before you get up and turn off 30 minutes before bed. If you’re out during the day, switch the heating off to save energy.

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Should you leave the heating on all day?

For most homes with a boiler, it’s more efficient to turn the heating on and off as needed, rather than keeping it on all day. This approach saves energy and reduces costs. However, if you have a heat pump, it can be more economical to leave it running continuously. For specific tips on maximizing heat pump efficiency, consult expert guidance.

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Preparing your boiler for colder months

Even if you’re postponing turning the heating on, it’s wise to ensure your boiler is functioning properly. If your boiler has been off during the summer, turn it on now to check for any issues. It’s also a good time to schedule an annual boiler service to avoid breakdowns when winter arrives, as waiting times for engineers often increase.

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To boost the efficiency of your central heating, you can:

????????????? Lower your boiler’s flow temperature.

?????????????? Clear the space around radiators for better heat distribution.

?????????????? Check and bleed your radiators if necessary.

?????????????? Install radiator reflector panels, especially if you lack wall insulation.

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Upgrading your heating system

Before the winter chill sets in, consider making improvements to your central heating. These upgrades can make your home warmer and lower your energy bills.

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Control heating in individual rooms

Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) allow you to control the temperature in each room by adjusting the flow of hot water to the radiators. This ensures you’re only heating the spaces you’re using. For example, you can lower the TRV in areas like hallways while keeping living spaces or bedrooms warmer.

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Smart thermostats

Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and automatically adjust the heating to suit your needs. Many also let you control the heating remotely via a smartphone app, so you can turn it off while out and have it switch on just before you return home. Some smart systems also enhance boiler efficiency by adjusting the flow temperature based on both indoor and outdoor conditions.

For more energy saving products and tips visit: www.homelogic.co.uk