Should You Leave the Heat On All the Time, Even When No One Is Home?

Imagine this: It’s the dead of winter in Ontario. Your home’s heating system is humming along, but you’re wondering if you’re just burning through your hard-earned cash by keeping it on when no one’s around. Does turning down the heat at night save money, or is it better to leave it on all the time? Let’s explore the pros and cons and share the best ways to save money on heating costs without sacrificing comfort.

The Cold, Hard Truth About Heating Costs

Heating accounts for a hefty chunk of your energy bill—as much as 45% of annual energy expenses in the average Canadian home. For those using natural gas, the cost can climb to nearly $1,000 per year. The financial toll grows higher if you rely on less efficient systems like oil furnaces. But here’s the kicker: how you manage your thermostat can significantly affect your expenses.

Some believe maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the day is cheaper than lowering it when no one is home. However, the reality is the opposite. Does turning the heat down during the day save money? Experts say yes. Lowering your thermostat reduces heat loss, which slows down the rate at which your home loses warmth to the outdoors.

Read More: How Smart Thermostats Save Energy and Money!

Is It Better to Turn the Heat Off or Down?

Short answer: turn it down, but don’t turn it off. Dropping the temperature by 7-10°C for 8 hours daily can shave 5-15% off your heating bill annually. For example, setting your thermostat to 20°C when you’re home and lowering it to 13-17°C while away or sleeping can help you save money on heating costs without compromising comfort or safety.

Turning the heat off entirely during frosty Ontario winters can lead to problems like frozen pipes and condensation damage. A balanced approach works best, and programmable thermostats or smart thermostats make these adjustments effortless.

Myths Busted: Heating Up a Cold House

A common misconception is that reheating a chilly house uses more energy than maintaining a steady temperature. In reality, your furnace doesn’t “work harder” to heat a colder home; it simply runs longer but more efficiently. Letting your home cool when you’re away minimizes heat loss, ultimately reducing energy usage.

But what about turning your heat off altogether? While it might seem like a logical step to save energy, it’s not advisable in sub-zero temperatures. Instead, turning it down strategically ensures you save money on heating and avoid potential damage to your home.

How to Save Money on Heating in Winter

If you’re looking for the best ways to save money on heating, upgrading your technology is a game-changer. Smart thermostats, high-efficiency furnaces, and heat pumps can drastically reduce your energy consumption. Many smart thermostats even learn your habits, optimizing your heating schedule and allowing remote control via your phone.

Zoned heating systems are another effective solution. This setup lets you control the temperature in specific rooms independently. Whether you’re working from your home office or hosting dinner in the dining room, zoned heating minimizes wasted energy and maximizes comfort.

Read More: Should You Let Your Furnace Fan Run All the Time? A Guide for Ontario Homeowners

Additional Tips for Efficient Heating

Want to further save money on heating costs? Here are some practical tips:

• Seal Drafts: Check windows, doors, and vents for leaks, and use caulk or weatherstripping to keep the warm air inside.
• Insulate Properly: Thermal curtains or blinds can reduce heat loss through windows.
• Use Natural Heat: Open curtains during sunny hours to let natural warmth in, and close them at night to retain heat.
• Maintain Your System: Replace air filters regularly and schedule annual maintenance for your furnace or heat pump.
• Layer Up: Cozy sweaters and warm socks let you keep the thermostat a few degrees lower without discomfort.
• Reverse Ceiling Fans: Use your ceiling fan’s winter setting to push warm air back down into the room.

Why It Matters in Ontario

Ontario winters are no joke. Keeping your home warm is a necessity, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By implementing strategies like turning the heat down when you’re away and upgrading to modern energy-efficient heating systems, you can stay comfortable and save money on heating costs.

Lowering your thermostat is also an eco-friendly choice. Using less energy reduces your carbon footprint—a win-win for you and the planet.

In Conclusion

Does turning down the heat at night save money? Absolutely. Does turning the heat down during the day save money? You bet. Is it better to turn the heat off or down? It’s always better to turn it down.

With a bit of effort and the right tools, you can keep your Ontario home cozy without overpaying. Whether it’s sealing drafts, embracing smart thermostat technology, or layering up, these strategies ensure you’re ready to tackle the cold while keeping your heating costs in check.

Stay warm, stay smart, and remember: your thermostat is the ultimate ally in your battle against winter’s chill

FAQs: Your Common Heating Questions Answered

1. Does turning down the heat at night save money?
   Yes, turning down the heat by 7-10°C while you sleep can save 5-15% on your annual heating costs. Use a programmable thermostat to make it effortless.
2. Does turning the heat down during the day save money?
   Absolutely. Lowering your thermostat when no one is home reduces energy usage and minimizes heat loss, saving you money on heating costs.
3. Is it better to turn the heat off or down?
   It’s better to turn it down. Turning it off entirely risks frozen pipes and higher energy usage to reheat your home. Aim for 13-17°C when away.
4. What are the best ways to save money on heating?
   Lower your thermostat, seal drafts, use insulation, upgrade to a smart thermostat, and maintain your heating system regularly.
5. How to save money on heating in winter?
   Set your thermostat lower when you’re out or asleep, invest in energy-efficient heating systems, and take advantage of natural sunlight to warm your home during the day.
6. Does reheating a cold house use more energy?
   No, reheating a cold house uses less energy than maintaining a constant high temperature. Lowering the thermostat reduces heat loss and energy consumption.
7. Can smart thermostats really save money?
   Yes, smart thermostats optimize heating schedules, reduce energy waste, and can save up to 10% on your annual heating bills.
8. How can I prevent frozen pipes while saving on heating costs?
   Keep your thermostat above 13°C, insulate pipes, and seal drafts to maintain safe indoor temperatures during extreme cold.
9. What’s the ideal indoor temperature in winter?
   Around 20°C when you’re home and 13-17°C when you’re asleep or out. Adjust based on your comfort and energy goals.
10. Are there rebates for upgrading heating systems in Ontario?
    Yes, Ontario offers rebates for energy-efficient systems like heat pumps and smart thermostats. Check local programs for details.