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AS the autumn days turn chiller, you may be thinking about switching your heating on to get warm.
If you haven’t already turned it on, an expert has shared the exact date that is best for starting your central heating - and it may be sooner than you think.
With most people keeping an eye on their energy bills, it is important to be a bit strategic about when to use central heating systems.
To help with keeping heating costs to a minimum, one home energy expert reveals when the best time to switch on your domestic heating is, and how to make the best of it during winter.
The UK’s winter season officially starts on December 21, but one domestic energy expert is recommending Brits turn on their heating around October 14.
Llewellyn Kinch, CEO and co-founder of UK based solar energy platform , said: “Getting your heating boiler ready for the worst of winter, by using it, makes sense.
“October 14 leaves a bit of time before things get really cold to ensure that your central heating is working properly.
“This way, it can handle the challenges of the cold weather that lie ahead.
“Vulnerable people may need their heating on October 14 anyway – especially in places that are more prone to cold weather – in the north of England and in Scotland, for example.”
So once the heat is on, how best to use it?
It’s easy to waste money on heat energy by having your central heating or storage heater on too high, or running them at the wrong times of day.
But having your home heating on longer won’t necessarily mean you spend more money on heating.
Llewellyn explains: “Heating left on low for longer can save money because the house doesn’t get so cold, and therefore doesn’t require as much energy to warm up again.
“It depends on the property and location of course, and the local weather conditions.
“Wherever you live and whatever you live in, there is, however, an average recommended heat setting and usage that offers the best balance between economy and warmth.
“Set your thermostat between 18-21C during the hours when you are in the house, and reduce it slightly at night or when you're away, to stay warm and save on energy bills.”
This proven heating strategy can be a great way to reduce energy bills and maintain a comfortable home environment during the colder season, claims the expert.
Llewellyn continues: “The impact of a more mindful – or certainly more strategic – approach to heating your house like this can be substantial.
“The cost of energy can vary a lot due to global dynamics.
“And we live in a demanding climate in the UK. Winters can be long and harsh, so residents should try to be sensible in their use of domestic heating to prioritise their health while keeping costs down.
“Hopefully, Brits can stay comfortable during the cold and festive season ... and look forward to next spring on March 20, 2025.
“Save the date and stay warm and well this winter.”
1. Draught-proof your home
It takes time and money to heat up your home, so it’s important that you do as much as you can to keep in the warmth. Close your doors and windows, and fill any gaps with a draught excluder.
2. Dial down your thermostat
According to Energy UK, turning down your thermostat by just one degree Celsius could cut your heating bill by up to 10%, and save you around £85 per year. Plus, if you don’t have a thermostat, installing one could save up to £70 per year!
3. Move furniture around
Make sure not big, bulky furniture like sofas are blocking radiators.
4. Wash clothes on a lower temp and add an extra spin
Unless it's bedding, towels or really dirty items, dial down the temperature to 20 or 30 degrees, and do a double spin to remove excess water.
5. Heat the person not the home
There's not point heating up a room that no one is sitting in, so be mindful about which radiators are on.
