Time to switch the central heating off ? Plus tips on energy saving, and a warming soup recipe.

Experts (here in the UK) have revealed the recommended date to switch the heating off and it's fast approaching.

Whether you are already bundled up under the blankets having already turned the temperature down, or you are enjoying a toasty boost of warmth from your radiators way too much to switch it off any time soon, deciding when to turn the central heating on and off is the divider of people!

While you may already be in the grips of a battle of the sexes when it comes to having control of the thermostat, experts have waded in to reveal the date we should be switching off the boiler.

Sunday March 27 is officially the recommended day to turn your central heating off.

“Spring is just around the corner, and as the weather gradually begins to turn warmer, more and more people are keeping their heating on for shorter amounts of time," explains Jordan Chance, heating expert from 'PlumbNation'.

“With the cost of living rising across the country, including higher energy price caps, many Brits will be feeling the financial squeeze."

Although there is no single temperature at which you should turn your heating off, Chance says we should be aiming for the time when clocks go forward, which this year falls on 27th March.

"While many may be waiting for the temperature to change, there’s no specific temperature at which you should be turning off your heating, as it will depend on how well insulated your home is," he explains.

He adds that well-insulated homes will retain their heat even when temperatures are low into the early spring, but every home will be different.

It turns out we are also making some pretty major mistakes when it comes to our heating, including leaving it on low all day.

“It is important to note that leaving your heating on low all day does not reduce your heating bills," he explains.

"Having the heating on only as and when you need it, is the best way to save energy. Using a thermostat with a timer offers a simple and speedy solution to controlling your heating effectively."

Your thermostat controls your home’s temperature by communicating with your boiler. Thermostats, particularly in older homes with older heating systems, can degrade over time, which can lead to delays in your boiler switching on, or your home being heated at much higher temperatures than you need.

"Upgrading your thermostat could provide for greater accuracy in thermostat to boiler communication, preventing energy from being wasted, and saving you money," Chance explains.

Stop Draughts
Stopping heat from escaping through unwanted gaps is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy and money. "To draught-proof your home, you need to primarily identify the ‘problem areas’ where draughts are causing issues, these could include doors, windows, chimneys and floorboards," explains Chance. "You can block unwanted gaps by using draught-proofing strips around your windows and doors, or flexible silicone-based filler to fill the gaps in your floorboards."

Add an Extra Layer (or two!)
Is your other half always telling you to put on another layer? They may have a point. Instead of heating your home to be warm enough to walk around in shorts and a t-shirt, why not turn your thermostat down and put on a jumper? "Adding clothing layers will insulate your body and make it easier to regulate your body’s temperature," Chance explains. "The more layers you wear, the less the heating will need to be on, reducing your heating bills."

Switch up your home furnishings
Believe it or not soft furnishings, such as curtains and rugs, can make all the difference in saving money on your heating.

"If you have a carpeted home then it will naturally help to boost insulation; however, if you have hard flooring investing in some good quality materials, such as a plush rug, will help to prevent heat from being lost," Chance adds.

Turn your thermostat down by 1°C
An excessive heating bill can be easily rectified with the ‘step-down’ challenge. "By turning your heating down by just 1°C, you can save up to 10% on your heating bill," Chance explains.

The typical heating range is between 18- 21°C, but reducing your own level of cosy by just 1 degree can make all the difference.

"It is also important to avoid classic thermostat ‘faux pas’," Chance adds. "Contrary to popular belief, turning up your thermostat does NOT heat up your room quicker. This method will only send your energy bills skyrocketing."

Clean your radiators
Hands up whose radiators are always left out of their weekly cleaning routine? Well, now's the time to add them in. "A build up of dust can affect your health, allergies and your heating bill," explains Chance. "Layers of dust in your radiator can prevent heat from escaping effectively, meaning your radiators will have to work harder to warm your room." Who knew?

Don’t use your radiators as a clothes dryer
It turns out the clothes that you place over the top of your radiators prevent the heat from escaping and heating your room. This means that your boiler has to pick up the slack and work at a greater rate - increasing costs.

"Similarly, the increase in the air’s moisture can create condensation, leading to potential issues with mould and dampness," 

Check your radiator cover
If you have a radiator cover it's worth checking that it is a good conductor of heat. "Radiator covers made from materials such as wood are poor conductors and can prevent heat from being dispersed effectively," explains Chance.

"Also, if your radiator cover has a solid top then you may be losing even more heat, as it will be absorbed by the top of the cover."

Bleed your radiators
It may be the most searched DIY task, but according to Chance bleeding your radiator is essential in preventing the efficiency of your radiator from decreasing due to air entering your heating system.

"The quickest way to check if air has entered your heating system is to turn your central heating on and feel your radiator," he explains. "If the radiator is warm at the bottom but cold at the top this is generally a sign that air is present."

Get your boiler serviced
If your boiler is ageing and has seen better days, there’s a strong chance it won’t be working as efficiently as it once was.

"Defective boilers can increase your heating bill massively as they will need to work significantly harder to bring your home up to the desired temperature," It is recommended you get your boiler serviced every 12 months to ensure it is running efficiently and safely.

Words above from article, which can be seen here
Some good tips here ...

I also find that a nice warm bowl of soup can help to keep you warm, like this

Tomato Soup with onions, carrot and celery - recipe details can be seen here

Dear reader, this blog is presented in a magazine style - we hope something for everyone. You will find a variety of articles, studies, thoughts, photographs, music and recipes! However, not all the recipes ideas featured in this blog may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

All the best Jan