This is why you shouldn't turn off your radiators this winter even if you're not home

Should you turn your heating down or up? That's the eternal question on everyone's mind during the winter months, and especially at a time of extreme inflation in energy prices! With 60% to 80% inflation on electricity prices, the bill looks set to be high for those with electric heating. So how can you save as much as possible, so that you don't end up eating nothing but pasta or going broke this winter? If the answer depends on a few factors, you'll find it here.

How well is your home insulated?

It all depends on the quality of your home's insulation, the season and, of course, the length of your absence. As a general rule, it's best to turn it down drastically, but there are a few nuances. The better the insulation in your home, the more you can afford to turn off your radiators. It makes sense indeed.

If this is your situation, you'll be able to save money because the thermal inertia will be such that your home will partially restore the temperature radiated by your radiators. Even if you're only away for a day.

Turn down the heat instead of turning it off

On the other hand, if your house is a real thermal sieve, it's best not to turn off your heating. Firstly, because your home will be like an ice cube when you get home, and secondly, because you risk wasting too much energy restarting the radiator from zero every time. Leaving the heating on low, without turning it off either, prevents consumption peaks. Your home will also take longer to warm up.

On the other hand, if you're going to be away for two or three days, you can use the 'frost-free' function for very low power consumption, without running the risk of freezing the pipes. This function is also represented by a little snowflake or a suitcase, depending on your radiator.

That said, in normal times, it is generally advisable not to drop below 14 degrees or exceed 19 degrees.

Read more:

⋙ This is why you should never turn your radiator off in winter

⋙ UK cold weather: Lowering the temperature in your home too much can have disastrous consequences

⋙ Cold weather: This is how your body is affected by low temperatures

This article has been translated from Gentside FR.

Sources used:

Mesdépanneurs / Engie : If I'm away, should I turn the heating down or up?

Fiouldreduc : Should you turn off or turn down your heating when you leave for work?

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