With temperatures set to drop this weekend, households are being advised to set their thermostats to 18°C, following guidance from the Energy Saving Trust and British Gas.
The advice comes as October draws to a close and many homes begin firing up their heating systems. While some may be tempted to limit heating use to cut energy costs, maintaining the correct temperature is about more than staying warm – a chilly house is more prone to condensation and mould growth.
A cold home can also pose risks to vulnerable individuals, including elderly people and young children.
Recommended Room Temperatures
The Energy Saving Trust advises heating your property to the lowest comfortable temperature, which for most people falls between 18°C and 20°C. The indoor temperature will vary from room to room, depending on the room's purpose and how frequently it's occupied.
As a general rule of thumb, British Gas suggests a living room should be set between 20°C and 22°C, while a hallway, landing, or storage space can be maintained at 15°C to 18°C. For adult bedrooms, the target is 16°C to 18°C; for babies, aim for 16°C to 20°C.
British Gas explained that newborn babies struggle to regulate their own body temperature effectively, making it crucial that they don't become too hot or too cold.
Staying Warm and Cutting Costs
Alongside monitoring the thermostat, warmth can be retained by drawing curtains and blocking draughts. For elderly residents, Age UK recommends keeping main living spaces at a steady, comfortable temperature, typically around 18°C, which should keep areas such as the living room and bedroom comfortable. They also noted that turning radiators down in rooms not being used can help cut costs.
For those concerned about energy bills, British Gas has shared several tips for heating homes more efficiently, including draught-proofing around doors, windows, keyholes and letter boxes to prevent heat from escaping. Improving insulation in walls, lofts and floors can also help retain warmth, while keeping your boiler and heating system properly maintained remains equally important.
