Do you think that by turning off the radiators during the night you will save on heating? This extended advice can be surprisingly bad for your wallet. Experts explain why this popular trick can cause the exact opposite and offer really effective solutions to reduce heating costs. Find out how to really save without risking damage to the heating system.
Why turning off the heating at night is a dangerous myth
Rising energy prices are forcing many of us to look for ways to reduce heating bills. Turning off the radiators at night seems like a logical solution. However, this widespread myth can do more harm than good. Imagine the situation: you turn off the heating in the evening and wake up in the morning to a cold apartment. The heating device must then work at full power to reach the required temperature. This increased load not only consumes more energy, but can also shorten the life of your heating system.
The real cost of nighttime shutdown
Heating experts explain that reheating a cooled space requires significantly more energy than maintaining a stable temperature. For larger spaces, this difference can represent up to a 30% increase in energy consumption. In addition, cold walls absorb more heat, which further increases the time needed to reach a comfortable temperature. Not only does this process increase your utility bills, it can also lead to mold growth and damage to walls from condensation.
Smart solutions for real savings
Instead of a radical shutdown, there are more effective ways to reduce heating costs. Modern thermostats make it possible to set the night temperature reduction by 2-3 degrees, which brings an optimal balance between savings and comfort. Regular venting of radiators improves their efficiency by up to 15%. Installing reflective films behind radiators can save another 5-10% of heating costs. These simple steps bring real savings without the risk of damaging the heating system or building structures.
Modern technologies and good habits
When using modern heating systems, it is crucial to understand their functioning. Heat pumps, for example, work most efficiently in stable operation. Switching them off and on again can lead to a significant increase in electricity consumption. Using the night tariff for electric heating can bring savings of up to 40%. Correct temperature setting in individual rooms is another important factor – while we need 21-22°C in the living room, 18-19°C is enough in the bedroom.
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