Experts Determine the Exact Spring Date to Turn Off Home Heating

When to Turn Off Your Heating: The 15°C Rule Revealed
(Image: A thermostat showing 15°C)

Every spring, households across the UK debate when to switch off their heating. A survey of 2,000 Brits, commissioned by Worcester Bosch, has finally settled the argument: once outdoor temperatures hit a consistent 15°C, it’s time to turn the heating off.

Stephen Day, director of iHeat, explains: “By mid-to-late April, most UK regions reach daytime temperatures above 14°C. Well-insulated homes can stay warm without continuous heating at this point.” Turning off the heating too late can be costly, with unnecessary usage costing households £6–£12 daily or up to £85 a week—equivalent to a weekly grocery shop.

Spring Heating Struggles
The survey highlights that 16% of couples argue about heating, with men more likely to push for turning it off. Nearly half admit to sneakily turning it back on when chilly. Day advises using programmable thermostats to balance comfort and cost. “Set it to activate only if temperatures drop below 12–13°C, or adjust gradually by 1°C per day to adapt,” he suggests.

(Image: A family discussing thermostat settings)

Stay Warm Without the Cost
Insulation fixes, like sealing drafts, can retain warmth without heating. For vulnerable groups (children, elderly), Day recommends reducing heating time by 30–60 minutes daily rather than switching off abruptly. Evening heating may still be needed, as spring nights can be cool.

Ideal Home Temperatures
The survey echoes past findings that Brits prefer homes at 19.5°C—higher than the World Health Organisation’s recommended 18°C for health and efficiency. While personal comfort varies, these benchmarks help balance cost and coziness.

In short: Aim for 15°C outdoors as your off-switch cue, tweak settings for chilly nights, and invest in insulation to save money and tempers this spring.

(Image: A well-insulated home with sunny windows)