The winter chill is firmly in the air, and that thermostat is looking more tempting than ever. But before you turn it up, have you ever stopped to wonder whether you’re heating your home in the most efficient way?
There’s no shortage of advice out there when it comes to home heating. But how much of it is true? We’re busting some of the most common heating myths to help you stay warm without wasting energy or money.
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Myth #1: Leaving Your Heating on Low All Day Is Cheaper
This is a hotly debated heating myth, and the answer isn’t quite as simple as you might think.
In most homes, leaving the heating on all day actually wastes more energy. Your boiler has to constantly replace heat that escapes through walls, windows and roofs, which means it’s working harder for longer. The Energy Saving Trust generally recommends heating your home only when you need it. For example, set your heating for an hour when you wake up in the morning and an hour before bed.
That said, there are exceptions. Homes that are extremely well insulated or those using heat pumps may benefit from a “low and slow” approach.
Myth #2: Turning Up the Thermostat Heats Your Home Faster
Cranking the thermostat up to 25°C won’t magically make your home heat up quicker. Your boiler heats at the same rate regardless; it will simply stay on longer to reach that higher temperature. The result? A hotter house than you need and unnecessary energy use. Instead, set your thermostat to the temperature you actually want and let your heating system do its job efficiently.
Myth #3: Painting Radiators Black Makes Them More Efficient
Despite what you might have heard, radiator colour makes little to no difference to heating efficiency. In fact, painting radiators black can sometimes reduce performance, as certain paints can act as an insulating layer.
If you want to improve efficiency, a better option is installing reflective foil behind radiators on external, uninsulated walls. This reflects heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the wall. Just be sure to check it doesn’t trap moisture or cause damp issues.
Myth #4: A High Flow Temperature Is Better for Your Boiler
Many people assume that a higher flow temperature means better performance, but for modern combi boilers, the opposite is often true.
Lower flow temperatures allow boilers to operate in condensing mode for longer, which improves efficiency and reduces gas usage. Aim to set it at 60 degrees. This can lower your energy bills by as much as 12%, and reduce wear on your boiler at the same time. Always check that your boiler is suitable for a low boiler flow before making changes.
Myth #5: Curtains and Blinds Don’t Make a Difference
Curtains and blinds can actually play a big role in keeping your home warm. During the day, opening curtains allows natural sunlight to heat your rooms. At dusk, closing them creates an extra barrier that helps keep warmth inside.
Thermal curtains and blinds are particularly effective at reducing heat loss through windows and helping you to hold onto more of your home’s heat.
Myth #6: Electric Radiators Are Cheaper Than Central Heating
Electric heaters can be handy for quickly warming a small space, but they are usually more expensive to run than central heating when used long-term or across multiple rooms.
If you’re only heating one room occasionally, a space heater might make sense. But for whole-house heating, central heating is generally far more cost-effective.
Myth #7: Turning Off Radiators in Unused Rooms Always Saves Energy
While it may seem logical, turning radiators off completely can sometimes do more harm than good. Cold rooms can increase condensation, damp and mould, and may even make your boiler work harder to maintain temperatures elsewhere.
A better approach is to turn radiators down rather than off completely, and use thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) to balance heat throughout your home. Opting for smart heating controls can help you save even further.
Myth #8: Draughts Are Good for Your Home
Ventilation is important for air quality and preventing damp, but draughts are not the same thing.
Uncontrolled draughts let cold air in and warm air out, making your heating work harder and increasing your energy bills. Sealing gaps around doors, floors and windows can significantly improve comfort and efficiency. But, it’s important to keep air bricks clear and open trickle vents on windows and doors.
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