As temperatures drop across the UK, energy experts have identified 20°C as the ideal thermostat setting for most households, balancing comfort with cost savings during the colder months.
With Ofgem's energy price cap rising on October 1, pushing annual bills from £1,663 to £1,723 for a typical home, and another increase anticipated in January, households are seeking ways to keep heating costs down this autumn and winter.
Optimal Temperature for Comfort and Savings
George Penny, energy expert at The Solar Co, said: "The sweet spot for most UK households is 20°C when you are at home and active. It is warm enough for the vast majority of people to feel comfortable, but it stops your heating system from running longer than it needs to."
Penny added that setting the thermostat higher tells the boiler to keep working until it reaches a temperature unlikely to be needed for comfort. He suggested setting heating to come on around 30 minutes before waking, so the home is already warm.
Patrick Garner, gas safe engineer at Heatable, concurred, stating: "For most people, 19°C to 20°C is a good starting place for a thermostat. While some people will prefer it a little warmer, it's best to begin with a lower baseline and increase the temperature as you need it, so you're not paying more than you have to."
Special Considerations for Vulnerable Groups
Penny noted that comfort is personal, adding: "For elderly people, those with health conditions such as heart or lung disease, or anyone who is not very mobile, the NHS recommends heating your home to at least 18°C." He advised not dropping below 16°C for extended periods, as this can encourage damp.
For households with babies, The Lullaby Trust recommends keeping a baby's room between 16°C and 20°C, with 18°C being the sweet spot. Overheating is a known risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome, so cooler is safer.
Stephen Hankinson, energy efficiency expert at Electric Radiators Direct, recommended: "Once temperatures fall below 15°C, it's a good idea to start heating your home. Ideally, aim to keep your living spaces at a minimum of 18°C (65°F)." He also advised testing heating systems before cold weather sets in.
Practical Tips to Reduce Heating Bills
Lee Saunders, Plumbing and Heating expert at Toasty.co.uk, explained: "Turning down the heat by just one degree can save you up to 10% on your heating bills. I recommend keeping your rooms in the 18°C-21°C range."
Nick Duggan, Director of The Radiator Centre, suggested using thermostatic radiator valves to heat only regularly used rooms and keeping the thermostat at 18-20°C in living spaces. He also recommended closing curtains at dusk, shutting internal doors, and investing in a smart thermostat to fine-tune heating to lifestyle needs.
