Many people switched off their central heating earlier than ever this year, but as the cold weather sets in, households across the country may be wondering when it’s time to put it back on.
Despite energy prices coming down after more than a year of record price levels around the world, Britons could still face inflated energy bills this winter, prompting thousands of billpayers to hold off dialling up their thermostat.
However, waiting too long to make the switch can be just as damaging as paying for premature heating use, according to property expert Clive Holland.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk The Fix Radio broadcaster said: “As the evenings begin to cool off in September, after a heatwave, some may wonder if it’s time to start using their heating system.
“Although temperatures are still comfortably in the high double-digits, it’s not essential to activate your heating system at this point.”
Clive continued: “Nonetheless, it’s advisable to run your heating for about half an hour once a week to prevent the components from becoming stagnant and ensure they work smoothly when you eventually need them.”
According to the expert, Britons have two options at this point in the year when it comes to managing their heating; maintaining a consistent, lower temperature or toggling it on and off to match the desired indoor temperature.
Those with a digital thermostat can choose a particular temperature setting, for instance, 18C, just like in Clive’s home, and keep the heating system on.
While some experts like Andy Kerr, founder at BOXT recommend waiting until October 29 to switch on the heating, Clive claimed that people can base it on the temperature of their home instead.
He elaborated: “Every home is different and every person is different. Anything from 17C to 22C is the most ideal temperature. The inside temperature of a home becomes dangerous when it lowers the core body temperature of the people living in it. Again, anything below 10 degrees could really start to cause people problems and close to freezing, could be life-threatening for some.
“In our business, once the temperature dips into single digits, we experience a surge in phone calls from individuals who haven’t used their systems all summer and discover they’re not functioning.
“Therefore, as a general guideline, it’s typically around the initial days of October when most people should consider turning on their systems. October 1 is a suitable date to mark on the calendar for this purpose.”
Of course, keeping the heating off entirely is a surefire way to save money, but the consequences can be even more costly.
Clive opined: “The biggest downside is that people don’t turn their system on all summer and then try and use it when it’s really cold, only to find it doesn’t work!
“There are ball bearings in pumps and there are other hydraulic components that can seize up if not used regularly. Even if your system is working, if you’ve left it to the last minute to turn it on, there may be peculiar sounds or issues with the system that could have been dealt with during the quieter summer months and then you have left the almost impossible task of finding a good heating company when ‘silly-season’ (as we call it) has arrived.
“Obviously saving in bills and potentially extending the life of your system if you keep it off for a while. Much like the miles on a car, the less mileage, the longer period of time you can use it.”
