People Urged to Avoid Costly Thermostat Mistakes This Winter
As winter approaches and temperatures drop, many individuals will be adjusting their thermostats to keep warm. However, making common mistakes with your thermostat could end up costing you a fortune in energy bills. With the recent £21 increase in Ofgem’s energy price cap, concerns about escalating heating costs have arisen. BOXT experts have highlighted several errors that can lead to higher bills and have shared valuable tips on how to keep expenses low during the cold season.
Andy Kerr, the founder of BOXT, emphasised the importance of using a home thermostat correctly to reduce energy consumption and lower bills. He pointed out that certain mistakes made by consumers can hinder the thermostat’s efficiency in lowering energy costs. With the rising price cap, consumers are likely to seek ways to decrease their overall energy usage to mitigate the increased expenses.
To help people control their energy bills this autumn and winter, BOXT has outlined six strategies for correct thermostat usage to prevent a surge in heating costs. One crucial mistake to avoid is installing the thermostat in the wrong location. Placing the thermostat where it is exposed to fluctuating temperatures can lead to inaccurate readings and cause the system to work harder to reach the desired temperature. It is recommended to install the thermostat centrally on an interior wall at least five feet above the ground for optimal performance.
Turning up the thermostat too quickly in response to the cold may not actually heat your home faster but could result in extended running times for your heating system, subsequently increasing energy costs. Experts advise maintaining the thermostat within the temperature range of 18°C to 21°C to ensure a comfortable environment while saving up to 10% on energy bills by reducing the temperature by just one degree.
Another common mistake is forgetting to lower the thermostat when you are away from home, leading to unnecessary heating costs. Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat can help automate temperature adjustments and generate cost savings. Smart thermostats enable remote control of heating settings and provide insights into energy usage patterns, offering tips on reducing consumption and cutting heating expenses significantly.
Given the impending price cap hike, experts recommend investing in a smart thermostat as an effective way to monitor and manage energy consumption. With the ability to remotely control heating and monitor energy usage, smart thermostats empower users to make informed decisions about energy efficiency, potentially resulting in substantial savings. These devices can provide valuable insights on energy usage patterns and suggest measures to reduce heating costs.
In conclusion, by avoiding common thermostat mistakes such as improper placement, rapid temperature adjustments, and overlooking energy-saving features, individuals can efficiently manage their heating costs this winter. Utilising smart technology and adopting best practices in thermostat usage can not only enhance comfort but also contribute to significant savings on energy bills. As the winter season approaches, being mindful of these tips can help households stay warm without breaking the bank.
Please note that the original article from Wales Online was used as the basis for this news report, focusing on educating readers about thermostat usage to avoid costly mistakes during the colder months.