As Birmingham-based gas engineers we often get asked by homeowners, if it’s better to keep their heating on low all the time or turn it on and off as needed. This debate really comes down to finding the right balance between comfort, cost-effectiveness, and energy efficiency.
We’ll break down the pros and cons of continuous heating and provide some optimal heating solutions for Birmingham households looking to reduce their energy bills this winter.
Case for Continuous Heating
Having your heating constantly switched on at a low temperature certainly has its appeals. The main advantage is consistent warmth and comfort throughout the home. With a continuous heat source, you don’t have to worry about getting chilly whenever the heating turns off. Keeping a low background temperature can also minimise issues with condensation and mould which thrive in damp, cold environments.
However, running your heating non-stop inevitably leads to higher energy bills. Old and inefficient heating systems in particular can rapidly consume power when left on 24/7. There are also environmental impacts to consider, as overheating wastes energy and leads to increased carbon emissions.
Is It Better to Keep Your Heating On All the Time?
Turning Down the Thermostat: Energy-Efficient Heating Strategies
Rather than keeping your heating permanently switched on, there are a few easy ways to maintain warmth and comfort in your home while still saving energy:
- Invest in Smart Thermostat Technology
Smart thermostats like the Google Nest or Hive Active Heating are a great way to maximise energy savings. These innovative devices learn your heating patterns and adjust the temperature automatically to avoid overheating empty rooms. Smart thermostats also allow you to control your heating remotely via smartphone. With a smart thermostat, you can maintain comfort while reducing your gas or electricity usage. - Follow Optimal Heating Duration Guidelines
Industry experts generally recommend heating your home for only 1-2 hours in the morning and night. For optimal savings, set your heating to come on 30-60 minutes before you get up in the morning. The key is heating your home just long enough to take the chill out of the air before turning the system off.You can follow a similar schedule for nighttime heating. Turn your thermostat up for 1-2 hours in the evening when you need it most. Avoid heating unused spaces like spare rooms to conserve energy. - Use Sustainable Heating Methods
There are also some eco-friendly heating options to consider that provide warmth without using as much fossil fuel-based energy. Thermal curtains, electric blankets, and extra insulation help retain heat for longer. On sunny winter days, you can harness free solar energy and warm your home by opening curtains. Fireplaces and woodburning stoves allow renewable heating with wood fuel.
Controlling Your Heating for Maximum Savings
Along with heating best practices, adjusting your thermostat settings can really help reduce your energy consumption and lower costs. Here are my top tips as a Birmingham heating engineer:
- Lower Thermostat Set Temperature
Lowering your thermostat just 1°C can cut heating bills by up to 10%. Set your thermostat between 18-21°C. Putting on an extra layer allows you to nudge the temperature down without sacrificing comfort. - Use Heating Zones Efficiently
Divide your home into heated spaces you use frequently like living rooms and unheated zones like spare bedrooms. Shut doors and use thermostatic radiator valves to only heat rooms when occupied. - Analyse Your Heating Schedule
Observe when you actually need heating during the day. Most people only require heating first thing in the morning, in the evening after work, and a few hours before bedtime. Program your thermostat accordingly.
Common Heating Misconceptions Debunked
Over our years of experience, tuning up heating systems in Birmingham households, I’ve heard various myths about home heating. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions:
- Myth: Leaving heating ON low all the time is the most efficient approach.
Fact: Having heating permanently ON leads to energy waste and higher bills. Targeted 1-2 hourly heating periods are best. - Myth: Warming up a cold house eats up more energy, so it’s best to maintain heat.
Fact: Reheating only costs marginally more. Dropping temperatures when awake or asleep saves far more. - Myth: Relying on fireplaces or stoves is carbon-neutral.
Fact: All woodheating emits some greenhouse gases. Efficient gas heating paired with smart controls is often greener.
When in doubt, Contact Our professional heating engineer about optimising your system without sacrificing comfort or breaking the bank. We’re happy to provide Birmingham homeowners with quotes for high-efficiency boiler upgrades or repairs to cut heating costs.
Invest in Cost-Effective, Sustainable Heating Solutions
At ESBAH Emergency Plumbing Services, we specialise in fitting energy-efficient heating systems that keep your home comfortably warm while respecting the environment. Some of our top green recommendations include:
- Smart thermostats – Programmable and self-learning, these innovative controls optimise heating schedules for savings.
- Condensing boilers – Utilise waste heat and perform around 15% more efficiently than old models.
- Radiator reflector panels – Place these foil-lined boards behind radiators to focus heat into rooms.
- Underfloor heating – Warms people and objects directly for more effective and even heating.
- Improved insulation – Stop heat escaping through cracks, doors, walls, lofts, and windows.
Turn to the Heating Experts at ESBAH
We hope this advice helps you make informed heating decisions this winter. Balancing comfort, cost savings, and efficiency comes down to understanding your heating requirements and using the right technologies and settings.
For personalised advice on optimising your home heating or to request boiler repairs and upgrades, count on the experts at ESBAH Emergency Plumbing & Heating. Get in touch today to maximise savings while staying cosy all winter long!
