Heating Wars

[PigPigPigs]

Someone please, please help me out with some solid facts and experience!

Does it actually save money to keep the thermostat at 18+ all the time?
Even overnight?
In a very badly insulated old 3 bedroom (two v large bedrooms, one small) flat?!

Nope:

www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/energy-saving-myths/

The worse your insulation, the more energy you are losing by having the heating on when you don’t need it.

I know, I know it's a boring one - but if anyone else has an insight please share!

@HeddaGarbled But when is 'when you don't need it'? My flat mate would say that she DOES need it on all night overnight, whereas I think that's ridiculous.

Ah, OK, you’ve got two different arguments here:

1. Does it save money to keep the thermostat at 18+ all the time?

Answer: no

1. Two people live in the flat and have different heating preferences. Who is right?

Answer: both and neither

In my experience, most people don’t keep the heating on all night.

Keeping your heating on low is only a good idea if your house is well insulated and you have an energy saving boiler.
If your house is poorly insulated its better to spot heat. Have it warm once or twice a day to stave off the damp.
Get Economy 7 and use an electric blanket at night, plus a space heater in the room when you get up.

Ah flat mates that easier. I take it separate bedrooms? If so leave the heating on for her but turn your radiator off - there is a knob that you twist on the radiator. Keep your bedroom door closed in the evening so no heat gets in. You can turn hallway radiators off too - no need in a small flat unless airing clothes.