The best temperature to run your heating at and mistakes to avoid

As the chill of winter descends across Britain, families are toying with the idea of clicking on their heating systems amid the everlasting cost of living crisis.

The NHS recommends turning on the heating once external temperatures fall below 15C for health reasons. Given the recent drop in temperature, it’s likely that many households have already switched on their heating systems, which are expected to remain operational for the remainder of the year.

Long-range forecasts predict October and November will see temperatures consistently below the critical 15C mark. Cold weather can thicken blood and increase blood pressure, while inhaling cold air can heighten the risk of chest infections, reports Chronicle Live.

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Therefore, maintaining an appropriate indoor temperature is crucial. It’s recommended to keep your home at a minimum of 18°C, especially if you’re over 65, have limited mobility, or suffer from a health condition like heart or lung disease. For those under 65 who are active and appropriately dressed, a slightly lower temperature may still be comfortable.

During the night, individuals over 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions should aim for a bedroom temperature of at least 18°C. However, for healthy adults under 65, this is less critical provided they have suitable clothing and bedding. Jess Steele from BestHeating advises that while there’s no perfect time to turn on the heating, it’s generally best to do so once temperatures drop below 15°C, typically around mid-October.

By the end of October, even those most resistant to the cold will likely have their heating on. If external temperatures fall below 13°C, it can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals. Despite financial concerns, delaying turning on the heating for too long can be detrimental to your health.

The Energy Saving Trust notes that over half of energy bills are attributed to heating and hot water. Therefore, it’s vital to manage your heating effectively. Here are five common mistakes that could cost you:

Incorrect Temperature Settings : Overheating homes leads to wasted energy and uncomfortable living conditions. Basic central heating systems often lack individual room controls, making it challenging to balance home temperatures. Investing in radiator valves can help manage each room’s heat levels.
Rapid Thermostat Adjustments : While it’s tempting to crank up the thermostat when coming in from the cold, this doesn’t speed up the heating process. The thermostat merely sets the final temperature and will switch off once this is reached.
Constant Heating : To maximize energy efficiency, lower your home’s temperature when you’re out and avoid immediately turning up the thermostat upon returning home.
Switching Off Heating When Out : Completely turning off your heating when leaving home can lead to dampness, mould growth, and burst pipes.