As the winter chill sets in, the age-old debate returns: is it cheaper to leave your heating on all day at a low temperature, or should you only turn it on when needed? Martin Lewis, the trusted Money Saving Expert, has weighed in — but the answer might not be as straightforward as you’d hope.
The Heating Dilemma Explained
Speaking on This Morning, Martin Lewis advised that it’s generally cheaper to only turn on the heating when you need it. He recommended using a timer to align heating with your daily schedule, ensuring you’re not wasting energy when no one’s home.
However, the team on his Money Saving Expert website added a caveat: “It’s far more complex than it first seems.” The official stance is that leaving your heating on all day leads to more heat loss, ultimately increasing your energy bills. Paying to heat your home when you’re not actively using it often results in unnecessary costs.
That said, your home’s heating method and insulation make all the difference. Modern boilers (from 2005 onwards) or heat pumps may perform better with the “low and slow” approach, recovering waste heat to maintain a steady temperature. In contrast, older homes or systems may benefit from shorter bursts of heating, especially with radiators and modern plasterboard walls.
While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, it’s clear that understanding your home’s heating system and insulation is crucial. Those with underfloor heating or older brick walls might find steady, prolonged heating more efficient, while others should stick to timed heating for quick warmth.
With temperatures dropping and energy bills set to rise again in January, Lewis’s advice is timely. While the perfect solution varies, the key takeaway remains: maximize efficiency by tailoring your approach to your home’s needs.
