Debate resolved: Is it cheaper to leave heating on constantly?
As winter approaches, the perennial debate about the most cost-effective way to heat homes resurfaces, especially with energy prices soaring. Is it more economical to keep the heating on all day at a lower level, or should we only turn it on as needed?
MoneySavingExpert (MSE) acknowledges that the answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on each home's energy requirements. After extensive research, MSE's experts revealed their findings in a recent blog post. They cite the Energy Saving Trust, which debunks the myth that it's cheaper to leave the heating on low all day. The Trust advises that heating your home only when necessary is the best way to conserve energy and reduce costs.
It's important to consider the total energy needed to heat your home. Energy constantly escapes from houses, particularly those with poor insulation. The Energy Saving Trust points out that if you leave your heating on all day, you’re losing energy throughout.
However, some specialists argue for keeping the heating on constantly at a low setting, suggesting this approach prevents heat loss through walls due to condensation that forms when the heating is turned off and on. They recommend setting radiator valves high and the boiler low to mitigate heat leakage.
MSE also considered consumer opinions from their forum. While some argue that heating homes only when necessary can lead to discomfort due to the time it takes for homes to warm up, MSE focuses on cost-saving. A compromise might be setting your timer to switch on the heating slightly earlier, ensuring warmth when needed without wasting energy all day.
