UK households urged to 'wait' a little while longer before putting heating on
UK households have been told to wait a little while longer before putting the heating on. Experts have spoken out over the optimum temperature to flick the switch and start heating your home, explaining how the ideal mercury level is actually around 15C.
It means that UK households could face a longer wait - with the Met Office forecasting highs in the mid-teens all week, despite heavy rain in Birmingham. Maximum temperatures on Tuesday 1 October and Wednesday 2 October look likely to be around 15C, while Thursday 3 October sees the mercury edge up to 16C. 15C and 16C highs are then anticipated across Friday 4 October and Saturday 5 October.
Property expert Clive Holland , the author of House and Home, said: "Many will leave it as late as possible to put their heating on due to an increase in utility bills from October; this really concerns me." He added: "In particular, [for] the elderly. The only real benefit to delaying your heating switch-on is saving money on your energy bills."
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Clive said: "The NHS advises to put the heating on for health reasons. However, depending on your age and general health, some people feel the cold more than others. Many people will base their decision more than ever on finances."
He said: "Always make sure you have draught strips on doors and windows to reduce heat loss. Ensure your letterbox is covered too, and have draught excluders at the base of your external doors." He added: "Good quality thermal lined curtains can help too.
"If you still have an open fireplace and you're not using it, remember 40 percent of your heat in the room will disappear up the chimney. Lastly, layering clothing, preferably wool-based garments can help with gloves and hats."
Health experts at the NHS have recommended that any time the outdoor temperature drops below 15C. "Whilst there isn’t an optimum time to switch heating on, our research shows that once temperatures are below 15C, usually in the middle of October, it is best to turn the heating on as we feel the chill more," said Jess Steele, of BestHeating.
"By the end of the month, even the hardiest among us will have our heating on. If it is below 13°C outside then serious health issues can arise, especially in vulnerable people. With many worried about their finances, it can be tempting to hold off putting the heating on but be careful delaying this too long as this can hurt your body."