Households across the UK are being alerted to a pervasive and expensive heating misconception that is adding hundreds of pounds to winter energy bills. Customers of major suppliers like British Gas, EDF, EON, Ovo, and Octopus are particularly at risk.
The Outdated Heating Habit
According to Grant Store, a leading energy solutions provider, the widely held belief that keeping your heating on continuously at a low temperature is efficient is a myth. This practice does not align with how modern central heating systems are designed to function.
A spokesperson for the company explained the core issue: "Running your heating all day, even at a low temperature, means your system is constantly using energy." They elaborated that homeowners are essentially paying to continuously replace heat lost through walls, windows, and roofs, even when the property is empty.
The Expert-Recommended Solution
The most effective way to combat high bills is not through constant heating, but through improving the building's ability to retain warmth. "The best investment you can make is improving insulation, sealing draughts, and ensuring windows and doors are fitted properly," the Grant Store representative advised. This approach directly addresses heat loss, keeping homes warmer for longer and reducing the need for constant energy consumption.
The advice marks a significant shift from practices that may have been valid in the past. "Decades ago, keeping heating on constantly could make sense," they noted. "Modern technology is far more responsive, so turning your heating on as needed is now the most cost-effective option." They were unequivocal in their assessment, stating that leaving heating on all day ranks as "one of the most expensive mistakes homeowners make."
Official Stance and Independent Advice
This guidance is supported by the Energy Saving Trust, the UK's main public body for reducing energy use. Their formal position confirms that leaving the heating on all day results in higher fuel consumption, greater overall heat loss, and consequently, increased costs.
Meanwhile, the team at Martin Lewis's Money Saving Expert has weighed in on the debate, acknowledging its complexity. They stated, "We wish we could give you a definitive answer, but this question is far more complex than it first seems." They urged the public to ignore clickbait articles that wrongly credit Martin Lewis with a simple answer, clarifying that the final cost-effectiveness depends on factors like your heating system type, usage patterns, and home insulation.
Ultimately, the consensus from energy professionals is clear: for most modern homes, a well-programmed thermostat and a well-insulated property are the keys to warmth and savings this winter.
