The two vital reasons why you should never leave the heating on all night in winter
WITH summer already feeling like a distant memory, many people are already reaching for the thermostat to feel cosy at night.
But leaving the heating on overnight is not always the best idea, no matter how good it feels to be toasty in bed.
Here, heating expert and founder of UKRadiators.com, Rob Nezard,
explains: “The question of whether to leave your heating on all night depends on a few factors, such as energy efficiency, health, and comfort.
“It’s about striking a balance between keeping warm and avoiding unnecessary energy use.”
So here’s what you should consider, according to the expert.
Energy Waste
“Leaving your heating on throughout the night is often an inefficient use of energy,” Rob explains.
He added: “As your home cools down during the night, the temptation is to keep the heating running to maintain warmth, but this can drive up your energy bills unnecessarily.”
Instead, Rob recommends investing in a programmable thermostat.
He said: “A thermostat can be set to lower the temperature while you’re asleep, ensuring your heating isn’t working harder than it needs to.
“This way, you save energy while still waking up to a comfortable temperature in the morning.”
Sleep Quality
“There’s strong evidence that cooler temperatures – typically around 16-18C – are better for sleep quality,” says Rob.
He added: “Keeping your heating on all night can create a warmer sleeping environment, which may not be conducive to restful sleep.”
By turning your heating down or off at night, you not only save energy, but also create a healthier sleep environment.
Rob said: “A cool room with warm bedding can be the perfect combination for a good night’s sleep.”
But if you are still determined to turn that thermostat up before you go to bed, Rob admits there can be benefits to it for some people.
“For some people, maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the night is essential”, he explained.
He added: “This is particularly true for elderly people, young children, or individuals with certain health conditions that make them more sensitive to cold.
“In these cases, it’s not about turning the heating off altogether, but about finding the right balance.”
Rob suggests keeping the heating on but lowering the temperature to around 18°C or less.
He added: “The most efficient solution is to use a timer or programmable thermostat with night settings.
“That way, you can ensure your home warms up before you wake without leaving the heating running at full pelt all night. This way, you maintain comfort without excessive energy use.
“By setting your thermostat to gradually raise the temperature in the early morning, you wake up to a warm home without the need to overspend on energy.”