Households across the UK are being alerted to a pervasive energy-saving misconception that specialists claim is needlessly inflating winter heating bills by hundreds of pounds.
The Costly Heating Misconception
As temperatures drop, a widespread belief persists that keeping your heating permanently active at a low level is more economical than turning it on only when required. Energy experts at Grant Store have now categorically debunked this as an expensive falsehood. Customers of major providers including British Gas, Octopus, EDF, E.ON, and OVO are being urged to avoid this practice.
A spokesperson explained that this idea of constant heating is outdated and clashes with the operational design of modern systems. "Running your heating all day, even at a low temperature, means your system is constantly using energy," they stated. "You are effectively paying to replace heat that escapes through walls, windows and roofs, even when no one is home."
The Smart Way to Heat Your Home
The efficient alternative, according to the specialists, is to heat your property selectively when it is occupied. This is best achieved by using timers and thermostats to exert precise control.
"Modern boilers and heat pumps are designed to reach an efficient operating temperature quickly," the expert clarified. "Turning the heating on when needed and off when it is not required helps to minimise waste and control costs."
The team highlighted that a home's insulation quality is a critical factor. Poorly insulated properties lose heat rapidly, making continuous heating a significant source of energy waste. "If a home is poorly insulated, the heat you generate will quickly escape," they warned.
Long-Term Solutions for Lower Bills
For substantial, long-term savings, the experts strongly recommend improving a property's ability to retain heat. "The best investment you can make is improving insulation, sealing draughts and ensuring your windows and doors are fitted properly. This keeps the heat in and your bills down."
The adoption of smart thermostats was also endorsed as a powerful tool. These devices learn a household's routine and automatically adjust heating schedules, ensuring warmth is provided only when people are present.
"A smart heating system can detect when you are home and when you are not, ensuring your heating only runs when needed," they advised. "This not only cuts energy waste but also helps maintain a comfortable temperature without manual adjustments."
The notion of leaving heating on constantly may have been logical decades ago with slower, less efficient systems, but it is not compatible with contemporary technology. "Older systems used to take much longer to heat up, which made people believe keeping them on was cheaper," they explained. "Modern technology is far more responsive, and turning your heating on as needed is now the most cost-effective option."
Debunking this common myth could lead to significant financial savings for households throughout the winter months. The Grant Store team concluded, "Leaving your heating on all day is one of the most expensive mistakes homeowners make. With the right settings, insulation and heating schedule, you can stay warm and comfortable without wasting energy or overspending."
