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9 Tips: Is It Better to Have Heating on Low for Longer?

James Halderthay
May 31, 2024
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a woman sipping coffee to warm her body while sitting

Many people ask, “Is it better to have heating on low for longer? Or is it cheaper to leave the heating on all day?” At Best Electric Radiators, we believe proper insulation plays a significant role in answering this question. A well-insulated home retains heat better, making it more cost-effective to keep heating low for longer.

The answer depends on how long you need the heating and the condition of your environment. Key factors include the age and quality of your appliance, insulation standards, and thermostat placement. These variables help determine whether constant mild heat or intermittent bursts are best.

Did you know that double-glazed windows, draught-proof doors, and loft insulation can save you money in the long run? These improvements help retain heat, reducing the need to adjust your heating constantly. With our energy-efficient electric radiators, you can achieve a comfortable and cost-effective home environment by maintaining a steady, low heat.

Tip 1: Differences Between Low Continuous Heating vs Higher Bursts

Deciding if it is better to have heating on low for longer or to use higher bursts of heat depends on various factors in your home. Understanding these heating methods is crucial if you’re wondering if leaving the heating on all day is cheaper.

Low continuous heating maintains a steady temperature, which can be more energy-efficient in well-insulated homes. This method prevents the frequent turning on and off of your heating system, reducing wear and tear.

Conversely, higher bursts of heat can quickly bring a room up to temperature, ideal for immediate warmth. However, this method may lead to increased energy consumption as the system works harder to heat from cold each time. 

Knowing which method works best for your home can help you determine whether it is more economical to leave the heating on or keep it on in the long run.

Low Continuous Heating

AdvantagesDisadvantagesBest EnvironmentsEnergy Efficiency
More energy-efficient in well-insulated homesSlower to heat if the temperature dropsIt is ideal for stable environments with minimal temperature fluctuationHigh-in homes with good insulation
Reduces wear and tear on heating systemsMay not respond quickly to sudden cold spellsHomes that maintain a consistent occupancyLowers energy costs over time
It provides a consistent and comfortable temperatureHigher initial costs for setting up a consistent heating scheduleOpen-plan homes or large spacesEnvironmentally friendly due to less energy waste
Less stress on the heating system componentsIt can be less effective in poorly insulated areasRegions with mild wintersLong-term savings on maintenance and repairs

Higher Bursts of Heat

AdvantagesDisadvantagesBest EnvironmentsEnergy Efficiency
Quickly heats a roomIncreased energy consumptionIdeal for short-term occupancy or rarely used spacesLower due to frequent cycling
Ideal for immediate warmthFrequent cycling can wear out the system fasterHomes with variable schedulesCan be costly if used as the main heating method
Effective in reaching the desired temperature fastThis can lead to temperature fluctuationsLarge areas that need quick heatingLess efficient in maintaining consistent temperatures
Can be more responsive to sudden temperature needsHigher overall maintenance and repair costsAreas experiencing sudden cold spellsNot suited for continuous operation due to higher energy use

Tip 2: Thermostat is Your Friend

A programmable thermostat can be a key tool in deciding whether it is better to have the heating on low for longer. With electric radiators with a thermostat, you can precisely control your home’s temperature, ensuring it stays comfortable without excessive heating. This helps determine if it is cheaper to leave the heating on all day, as it avoids the energy waste of overheating.

Leaving the heating on might be more economical if you set it to maintain a lower, constant temperature. This could also answer whether it is more cost-effective to keep heat on using energy only when needed. Properly using a thermostat can significantly reduce your bills by maintaining optimal temperatures efficiently.

Thermostat Benefits

BenefitDescriptionHow It WorksEfficiency ImpactCost Savings
Precise Temperature ControlSet the exact temperature you need.Adjust the thermostat for different times.Keeps your home warm without waste.Reduces heating bills.
Energy EfficiencyCut down your energy bills.Adjusts to weather and indoor temperatures.Uses less energy.Saves money.
Custom Heating SchedulesMatch heating to your daily life.Program heating for when you’re home.Prevents heating empty spaces.Cuts costs.
Remote ControlChange the home temperature from anywhere.Control heating with a smartphone app.Allows quick adjustments.Increases convenience and savings.
Zone HeatingHeat only used parts of your home.Set different temperatures for areas.Saves energy in empty rooms.Lower costs.
Maintenance AlertsKnow when to fix or check your system.Alerts you about system issues.Keeps system efficient.Avoids costly repairs.
Worker working on home insulation for efficient heating

Tip 3: Insulation is Key

Good insulation is essential when considering whether it is better to have the heating on low for longer. If your home is well insulated, it keeps the heat in more effectively, allowing you to maintain a warm temperature with less energy.

Insulation makes it possible to use a low, steady heat setting, which might answer whether it is more economical to leave the heating on. 

This method supports the idea that keeping the heat on is more cost-effective, as it reduces the frequency of the heating system turning on and off, saving energy and money.

Tip 4: Strategic Location

The placement of your unit can greatly influence whether it is better to have the heating on low for longer. Positioning heaters strategically ensures that heat is evenly and efficiently throughout your home. 

For instance, placing electric radiators away from windows and on internal walls can prevent heat loss and improve overall warmth. This method helps determine if it is cheaper to leave the heating on all day since it maximises the effectiveness of each heat cycle. 

By optimising the location, it is more economical to leave the heating on with a low setting. Effective placement can prove that it is more cost-effective to keep the heat on, reducing the need for high bursts of heat and saving energy.

Optimal Placement

Placement StrategyAdvantagesDisadvantages
Away from WindowsMinimises heat loss, maximises heat retentionMay limit design options
On Internal WallsImproves warmth and efficiency of heat distributionIt can be obstructive in smaller rooms
Under WindowsCounters cold draughts from windowsIt is less effective if windows are poorly insulated
Central Position in Larger RoomsEvenly distributes heat throughout the spaceRequires careful furniture placement to avoid blockage
Near Seating AreasDirects warmth to frequently used areasIt may cause overheating in small, enclosed areas
Opposite External WallsBalances external cold spots, improving room comfortIt may require longer piping, increasing installation costs
Near the FloorUtilises the natural rise of hot air for better circulationHeat may not effectively reach loftier areas
Corners of the RoomOut of the way, less likely to be blockedThis can result in uneven heating distribution
Woman sleeping peacefully enjoying the heat from her smart electric radiator

Tip 5: Utilise Night Time Rates

Using nighttime rates can influence your decision on whether to keep the heating on low for longer. Many energy providers offer lower rates during off-peak hours, typically at night. 

Heating your home at these times can help you maintain a warm environment more cost-effectively. This strategy is particularly effective in homes with good insulation, as overnight heat reduces the need for high heating during the day.

Woman wrapped in knitted blanket to keep warm

Tip 6: Dress for the Season

Dressing appropriately for the season can help you decide whether it’s better to have the heating on low for longer. Wearing warm clothing inside during colder months lets you set your heating system at a lower temperature. 

This reduces the need for your heating to work harder, saving energy and costs. By layering up, you keep comfortable without relying on high heating settings. This approach can answer whether leaving the heating on all day is cheaper since it reduces energy usage. 

Sunlight shining through window into room

Tip 7: Sunlight Power

Depending on the orientation of your room, and how much sun it gets can significantly impact the amount of heating you need. This method helps keep your house warmer without requiring constant heating. As a result, you can maintain a lower thermostat setting, potentially reducing your energy bills.

This strategy is particularly effective in well-insulated homes where heat retention is optimised. Leveraging sunlight is a simple and cost-effective way to enhance efficiency and comfort during the day. By making the most of natural sunlight, you can achieve a warmer home environment with less reliance on your heating system.

Smart Electric Radiator Installed in Bedroom for Efficient Heating

Tip 8: Smart Tech Takes Control 

Smart technology can significantly influence whether it is better to have heating on low for longer. Smart thermostats and radiators allow precise control over your home’s temperature from anywhere. This technology adjusts the heat based on your daily schedule and outside temperature, maintaining comfort while reducing waste. 

By keeping your home at a consistently low temperature, smart tech helps determine if it is cheaper to leave the heating on all day. These systems ensure that energy is used only when necessary, helping to decide if it is more economical to leave the heating on. 

Smart devices provide a convenient way to manage your heating efficiently and could be a key to cost-effective home warming.

Tip 9: Heat Zones

Using heat zones in your home is a smart way to manage heating efficiently. This method involves heating only specific areas of your home where warmth is needed, rather than heating the entire space. By setting up different zones, you can control where and when heat is applied, based on the use of each area.

For example, living areas can be kept warm during the evening, while bedrooms can be heated just before bedtime. This targeted heating approach allows for a lower overall temperature in your home, which reduces energy consumption and can lead to significant savings on your heating bills.

In essence, heat zones makes more economical and tailor the comfort of your home to fit your lifestyle more closely.

Upgrade Your Home Heating with Energy-Efficient Electric Radiators

Effective home management revolves around strategic technology use and simple lifestyle adjustments. Ensuring your home is well-insulated and your electric radiators are correctly placed can dramatically increase energy efficiency. 

Electric Radiators with programmable thermostats and smart technology allow precise temperature control, significantly reducing energy waste and lowering bills.

Cost savings can be achieved by adjusting heating to off-peak rates, using natural sunlight during the day, dressing warmly, and applying zone heating to only warm-occupied areas of your home. These steps not only enhance comfort but also optimise energy use.

Practical Steps for Efficient Heating:

  • Upgrade your home’s insulation.
  • Install and program electric radiators with smart thermostats.
  • Utilise lower nighttime energy rates.
  • Invest natural sunlight.
  • Implement zone heating to focus warmth where it’s needed.

By following these tips, you can maximise the efficiency of your electric radiator, ensuring your home stays warm while keeping energy costs in check.

Choose the Best Electric Radiators for Efficient Home Heating

Selecting the right electric radiator is essential for efficient home heating and reducing electricity costs. At Best Electric Radiators, we offer a range of high-quality electric radiators tailored to meet various household needs. 

“Is it more cost effective to keep heat on?” The answer can vary, but our electric radiators are designed to provide cost-effective heating solutions by maintaining consistent warmth with smart energy use.

Our team is ready to assist you in choosing the most suitable electric radiators for your home. Contact us for a personalised strategy tailored to your specific requirements. 

We will guide you through the selection process, ensuring you find the most efficient and cost-effective solutions.

FAQs

Is It More Cost Effective To Keep Heat On

It depends on your insulation and heating system. Generally, keeping a low, consistent temperature is more cost-effective for well-insulated homes.

What Is the Most Economical Way To Use Central Heating?

Set your thermostat to a lower temperature. Use programmable settings to heat your home only when needed. Ensure good insulation to retain heat and reduce energy waste.

What Temperature Should I Heat My House To Save Money?

Set your thermostat to around 18°C to 20°C while awake. Lower it when asleep or away from home to save energy and reduce costs.

What Is the Best Amount of Time To Have Heating On?

To optimise energy use and comfort, set your heating to come on 30 minutes before you wake up and turn it off 30 minutes before bed. 

If your home is empty during the day, it’s also efficient to turn off the heating during those hours. This strategy helps maintain comfort while minimising energy waste.

What Is the Best Temperature To Leave Heating On?

The World Health Organisation recommends heating your home to 18°C in the winter. The Energy Saving Trust suggests maintaining a temperature between 18°C and 21°C for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.

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