Thermostat error could mean you are overpaying for heating

Mercury plummeted to -2.1C in parts of Scotland on Tuesday morning

Experts have recommended the optimal locations for thermostats in homes to prevent unnecessary increases in heating bills, as well as areas to avoid. As October commences today, some individuals may be contemplating activating their heating systems in the coming days and weeks.

However, as temperatures decrease, thermostats must be correctly positioned within homes to prevent inaccurate temperature readings, which could result in the heating system working overtime and increasing costs. By ensuring the thermostat is appropriately located, consumers could potentially save hundreds of pounds on their winter bills.

Another method to decrease expenditure is by lowering the thermostat by one or two degrees. Joanna Flowers, a service and repair engineer at British Gas, advised The Sun: "When deciding where to place your thermostat, the main thing is to ensure you don't place it somewhere colder or warmer than the centre of your home."

"If you place your thermostat in the heart of your home - we often suggest internal hallways or living rooms it will make sure you get your desired temperature and save on bills by only using as much heating as you need. We suggest an interior wall as external walls are often much cooler, so the thermostat will tell the boiler to warm the house up when it might not need to.

"It should be at medium height because heat rises and you should avoid it being too close to radiators, cookers, direct sunlight or near draughts." Specialists recommend positioning thermostats in a frequently used room in the heart of the home, about five feet off the ground, while keeping them out of direct sunlight and away from kitchens, reported The Mirror.

Jess Steele, an expert in heating technology, commented: "By the end of the month, even the hardiest among us will [likely] have our heating on to keep warm, as temperatures are predicted to drop further. Whilst there isn't an optimum time to switch heating on, once temperatures are below 15 degrees C, often around October or November, it is best to turn the heating on as we feel the chill more".

Stephen Hankinson, managing director at Electric Radiators Direct, added: "There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to when you should turn on your heating, as it varies from person to person. The effectiveness of your heating system can also depend on the type of house you live in - newer homes with better insulation may retain heat more efficiently, while older houses might need more frequent heating adjustments to stay comfortable."