Martin Lewis issues 'huge cost' verdict on leaving heating on low all day long

Households across the UK have been grappling with the cold snap, seeking ways to stay warm as temperatures take a dive. With the mercury dropping, the temptation to crank up the heating is strong, but it can be expensive for those who leave it running.

The chill isn't set to lift any time soon; on November 20, the Met Office issued a five-day cold weather alert due to sub-zero temperatures and persistent icy conditions. This alert is expected to remain until 6pm on Saturday, November 23, leading to higher than usual energy usage expected for the time of year.

Back in October, Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis shared his insights on ITV's This Morning regarding heating your home. He advised: "They say it's better to only put the heating on when you need it. You pay to pump energy in as and when is needed, and to keep pumping it in constantly isn't efficient.

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"Using a timer's best, because your thermostat is designed to turn your heating on and off to keep your home at the temperature you set it at. So in general I'd stick with that."

While many believe it's better to maintain a low level of heating continuously as it won't lead to exorbitant costs, Lewis offered some advice: "There are some engineers who argue that keeping the heating on low with all the radiators on and the boiler down can work as it reduces condensation," reports the Liverpool Echo.

However, the 52-year-old cautioned: "When the heating is turned off it collects within the walls, and can help conduct heat outside the home.

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"This means you lose heat more quickly and will use more energy as a result. So if your house is prone to that you may want to think about it."

Further advice from Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert.Com website suggests: "Leaving the heating on all day leads to greater heat loss and means higher cost".

They added" The concept is simple: pump heat into your home when you need it; don't pay to keep pumping it when you don't. It says this is the best way to save energy and money (using a timer's best, so your thermostat turns your heating on and off to keep your home at the temperature you want)."