Setting Heating Schedules Sensibly
A sensible heating schedule matches when the house is actually occupied, rather than running on default settings left over from whoever last touched the programmer..
A sensible heating schedule matches when the house is actually occupied, rather than running on default settings left over from whoever last touched the programmer.
Common scheduling mistakes
Leaving the heating on low all day 'to save cycling it' rarely saves money compared with heating only when needed, for most well-insulated homes.
Matching the schedule to the household
Working patterns, when the house is empty, and which rooms are used when should all shape the schedule rather than a generic morning-and-evening default.
Adjusting for the season
A schedule that works in October may need adjusting by January as outside temperatures drop and the boiler needs longer to bring rooms up to temperature.
Help getting your schedule right
Describe your household's routine and we can suggest a schedule that suits it, or set it up on a smart thermostat if you have one.
Questions we get asked
Is it cheaper to leave heating on low all day?
For most homes, heating only when needed is more efficient than a constant low background level, though very poorly insulated homes are a partial exception.
How do TRVs fit into a schedule?
TRVs let you fine-tune individual room temperatures within the overall schedule set by the main thermostat or programmer.
Should the schedule change with the seasons?
Yes, timings that work in mild weather often need to start earlier once it gets colder to reach the same comfort level.