As the days get shorter and the air grows colder, a natural question arises: when is the right time to turn on the heating? Some folks crave warmth instantly, while others are determined to weather the early chill to save money, especially with the Energy Price Cap set to increase. Beginning October 1st, electricity will cost 24.50p per kilowatt-hour with a daily standing charge of 60.99p. Meanwhile, gas clocks in at 6.24kWh with a standing charge of 31.66p per day. This means that 28.4 million households will be shelling out an extra £149 per year on their energy bills, a significant rise that will last until December 31st, when Ofgem will announce a new cap.
So, when’s the ideal time to switch on the heating? The Energy Saving Trust suggests keeping your home between 18 ̊C to 21 ̊C throughout winter, while the World Health Organisation recommends 18 ̊C for healthy individuals. If your indoor temperature dips below these thresholds, consider turning on the heating.
Many people aim for the date the clocks go back, which in 2024 falls on Sunday, October 27th. According to British Gas, with over 7.53 million customers across the UK, the average heating start date falls within the last week of October. They suggest that if nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 9C for a prolonged period, it’s a good indicator to switch on the heating. But remember, you are not bound by these guidelines; if you need the heating before then, don’t hesitate to turn it on.
Before you switch on the heating, take a few steps to ensure it’s running efficiently:
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Check your boiler:
British Gas engineer Joanna Flowers advises giving your boiler and heating system a check-up before the colder weather arrives.*
Test your system:
USwitch’s Natalie Mathie recommends turning on your heating early to test its functionality, especially if you notice cold spots on your radiators that may need bleeding.*
Schedule a service:
If you haven’t serviced your boiler in the past 12 months, consider doing so now. A breakdown during a cold spell could lead to longer wait times for repairs.Tips for saving money on heating bills:
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Bleed your radiators:
If you notice cold spots at the top, use a radiator key to release trapped air.*
Install draught excluders:
These are readily available at DIY stores and can effectively seal gaps around doors, windows, and letterboxes.*
Turn off unused radiators:
Don’t waste energy heating empty rooms.*
Furnish for warmth:
Avoid placing large furniture, such as thick sofas, in front of radiators as they absorb heat.*
Insulate water pipes:
Ensure your pipes are properly lagged to prevent heat loss.*
Reflect heat:
Place a thin sheet of card covered in tinfoil behind your radiators to reflect heat back into the room.*
Use a smart thermostat:
Control your heating remotely via a smartphone app to avoid heating an empty home.*
Explore financial assistance:
Investigate whether you qualify for the Warm Home Discount Scheme (opens in October 2024). Many energy suppliers offer assistance programs and grants. The British Gas Energy Trust provides up to £1,500 per household, regardless of whether you are a British Gas customer.By following these expert recommendations and implementing energy-saving strategies, you can effectively manage your heating costs and enjoy a comfortable winter season.
