Is it cheaper to leave your heating on at a constant temperature, or to just switch it on when you’re at home and need the heat? It’s a common question, and something which many people wonder when they’re trying to save some money.
The main point to bear in mind is the energy efficiency of your home. If you live in a new build which is good at retaining heat, it’s best to let your boiler run on a thermostat. This will keep it at a constant temperature, with the heating coming automatically if the building falls below this specified temperature. However, because your home will keep the warm air in, this shouldn’t happen too often and when it does, you shouldn’t need too much heat for too long. If you live in a property which isn’t as energy efficient, you’re probably best to set a timer, making the boiler come on at the times when you will be in the building. You would end up spending more money by leaving your heating on constantly, as the heat will escape quicker and your boiler will have to work harder.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that heating should be left on to some extent when away from the house for any length of time. This is to prevent the pipes freezing. It doesn’t have to be at too high a temperature, it just needs to be enough that you won’t come home to burst pipes.
