As energy costs rise every winter, households are asking a crucial question: What’s the most economical way to heat your home at night? Should you turn the heating off completely, or simply lower the thermostat? Experts in energy efficiency have studied this issue extensively, and their answer is clear: there is a golden rule for reducing your heating bill without sacrificing comfort.
Here’s everything you need to know to make the smartest choice for your home.
Should You Turn the Heating Off at Night?
Turning off the heating seems like the obvious way to save money—after all, if it’s off, it’s not using energy. But in practice, this strategy often backfires.
When a house cools too much overnight, the heating system must work much harder in the morning to bring the indoor temperature back up. This sudden surge in energy demand can consume more energy than you saved while the heating was off.
When Turning It Off Makes Sense
Turning off the heating can be reasonable if:
- You live in a well-insulated home
- The outside temperature is mild, not freezing
- You don’t mind waking up to a colder environment
For most homes, especially older or poorly insulated buildings, turning the heating off completely is not the most efficient choice.
Why Lowering the Temperature Is Better
Energy specialists recommend lowering the thermostat rather than turning it off. This method provides the best balance between comfort and cost savings.
How to Do It Correctly
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