Heating hacks or heating myths? What works (and what doesn’t)
As the temperature drops and the heating goes on, there are lots of opinions out there about how to keep your home warm and your energy bills down. But which tips actually save you money and which ones cost you more in the long run? Here’s our top 10 list of heating hacks worth keeping, and the myths best left out in the cold.
1. “It’s cheaper to leave your heating on low all day.”
This is one of the most common bits of advice out there, but keeping your heating on constantly means your boiler is always working to replace lost heat even when no one’s home. It’s generally cheaper to only have the heating on when you need it, using a timer and thermostat. The only time this might not be the case would be if your home is very well insulated.
2. “Turning the thermostat up makes the house warm up faster.”
A higher setting doesn’t speed anything up, it just makes your boiler run longer and burn more fuel. It’s best to set it to your preferred comfort temperature and be patient. Your system will work most efficiently that way.
3. “You don’t need to service your boiler every year.”
A yearly service keeps your boiler safe and efficient. Skipping a service might save a few pounds now, but can mean that small issues turn into expensive breakdowns.
4. “Electric heaters are cheaper to run.”
While they can be handy for quick bursts of heat and are convenient for small spaces, electricity costs more per unit than gas. Portable heaters are best used only for quick top-ups, not as a main source of heat.
5. “Radiator foil and reflectors don’t work.”
Actually, this trick does make a difference especially on radiators placed against external walls. Reflective panels bounce heat back into the room instead of losing it through the brickwork. Combining reflectors with regular radiator bleeding and balancing will boost efficiency even further.
6. “A new boiler won’t make much difference.”
Modern condensing boilers are up to 30% more efficient than older models. Over time, that will mean major savings on your bills and they’re better for the environment too.
7. “Pipes only burst during a deep freeze.”
In fact, pipes are most at risk of bursting when water inside them freezes and then thaws again as the expansion and pressure changes can cause cracks. Insulating exposed pipes in lofts, garages and outdoor areas will help to protect them.
8. “An immersion heater can be left on constantly.”
Immersion heaters are costly to run and leaving it on all day means energy is wasted keeping the water hot. It’s better to set a timer to heat the water for when you want it, especially during of-peak hours if your tariff allows, and a well-insulated tank will help keep the water hot too.
9. “Shutting off radiators in unused rooms saves energy.”
It may seem logical, but shutting off radiators can crease cold spots, increase damp and mould risk and make your boiler work harder, especially in systems designed for balanced heat flow. It’s usually better to turn them down rather than off entirely.
10. “Sealing my home completely will keep the heat in.”
Yes and no – draught-proofing with draught excluders and seals around windows and doors prevent heat escaping are great ways to cut heating bills. But ventilation still matters. Kitchen and bathroom vents allow airflow to stop condensation, damp and poor air quality. The goal is to block unwanted draughts, not fresh air.
At Taskforce, we’re here to help you stay warm, safe and energy efficient all year round. Get in touch if you’d like some expert advice or a winter heating check, we’re always happy to help.