The general recommendation for turning on heat in a home is when indoor temperatures fall to around 64°F (18°C) or when outdoor nighttime temperatures consistently dip to about 55°F (13°C) or lower. Another common guideline is to turn on heating once temperatures drop below 15°C (59°F), which often happens in mid to late October depending on location. It's also advised to turn on heat when you or your household start feeling cold for comfort and health reasons. Vulnerable groups such as elderly, children, or those with health concerns may need heating sooner. For energy efficiency, it is best to avoid turning on heat too early and consider layering clothing or using blankets until heating is necessary. Using programmable thermostats to optimize heating times, such as turning on heat half an hour before waking and turning off before sleep, is recommended. Maintaining your heating system such as replacing air filters and checking vents before use is also advised for efficiency and safety. Here are some summarized points:
- Turn heating on around indoor 64°F (18°C).
- Outdoor temps below 55°F (13°C) or 15°C (59°F) is a common outdoor threshold.
- Mid to late October is a typical timeframe in temperate climates.
- Use heating mainly during occupied times, such as before waking and after returning home.
- Adjust for health needs or in poorly insulated homes.
- Perform heating system maintenance before the season.
This guidance helps balance comfort, health, and energy savings when deciding when to turn on heat.
