Recent data reveals that 7.3 million households in the UK may still experience higher winter energy bills than last year. One of the causes of the increase in energy bills is the placement of thermostats in people’s homes.
With the energy price cap set at £1,923 a year starting October 1, 2023, for a typical household using gas and electricity with Direct Debit payments, thermostat placement plays a vital role in determining the final bill amount.
Expert advice on the thermostat positioning
Ryan Harrison, a home expert from energyadvicehelpline.org, advises against a common mistake many people make regarding their thermostats. Placing it on an interior wall in a well-used room, such as a kitchen, can save hundreds of pounds over the colder months.
Whilst you might spend a lot of time in the kitchen socialising and spending time with the family, the humidity in the air from cooking and washing can throw the thermostat off and also impact the temperature of the home. So it’s best to avoid rooms with higher levels of humidity and keep it in spaces with fewer elements that can throw it off
Ryan Harrison (Energy Advice Helpline)
Ryan recommends choosing the interior wall of a frequently used room as the optimal place for the thermostat. Avoiding drafts is essential, as they can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, causing the boiler to run longer. He also advice not to place the thermostat in the bathroom; he said, “Bathrooms tend to feel colder so you also don’t want the thermostat thinking your whole house is just as cold as this could cost you more money.”
Strategically placing your thermostat can make a substantial difference in your winter energy bills. Consider these expert tips to optimise your heating system’s performance and keep more money in your pocket during challenging times when meeting basic expenses is a priority. According to Ofgem regulations, the energy supplier is obligated to provide assistance on the bills. This is typically in the form of negotiating a payment plan that is financially feasible for the customer.
Other ways to save energy
- Using energy saving appliances
- Applying for energy grants
- Using energy efficiency heating systems
- Insulating your home