Switching on your heating? Disregard the official start date; here's the real time you should do it
Turning On the Heating: Debunking Myths and Finding the Right Temperature
When it comes to turning on the heating, there's a common misconception that it's all about following a specific calendar date. However, the reality is much more nuanced.
The temperature inside and outside your home, the insulation of your building, and your personal comfort requirements are the key factors that determine when to switch on the heating. It's not uncommon for homeowners to start heating their homes when indoor temperatures drop below a comfortable level, although this can vary greatly depending on location and year.
One important aspect to consider is frost protection for your boiler. It's advisable to keep this feature enabled and run the system briefly every now and then to ensure everything is running smoothly. Prolonged idle time for the heating system can put unnecessary strain on it and lead to breakdowns.
Heat pumps, a popular choice for many homes, are designed to run continuously. There's no real benefit in keeping them switched off once the weather turns colder. In fact, maintaining a steady background warmth is more efficient than letting the home get very cold and then heating it quickly.
Modern boilers and smart thermostats are designed to maintain steady temperatures more efficiently. Aim for steady conditions rather than big swings in temperature when programming a smart thermostat. Not turning on the heating when the temperature falls below 18°C can lead to cold, damp, condensation, and mould. Health experts recommend maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment at 18°C.
It's best not to let your home fall below 18°C if you use a heat pump. Leaving the heating off for too long can cause water pipes to freeze and burst, especially in outbuildings, lofts, or garages. Consistency in low temperatures is a factor in deciding when to turn on the heating.
If your indoor temperature is comfortable and stable, leave the heating off. It's far more efficient to keep your home gently topped up to the right level with a heat pump. Regular use of the heating system can benefit the emitters inside the home.
So, the next time you're wondering when to turn on the heating, remember it's not about a specific date on the calendar, but about maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment. Claims about a specific date to turn the heating on are a myth. Instead, focus on the temperature inside your home, the outdoor conditions, and your personal comfort requirements.
