Experts reveal the golden rule for truly reducing the bill
Every winter, the same question arises in millions of homes: should you turn off the heating completely at night or simply lower it?
Between fear of being cold, fear of a high bill and deeply ingrained misconceptions, it is difficult to know what the best solution is.
However, the experts’ answers are now clear, measured, and above all, based on concrete data. Here’s what you really need to do to save money without sacrificing your comfort.
The experts’ golden rule: never turn everything off.
According to recommendations from ADEME (French Agency for Ecological Transition), turning off the heating completely at night is not the best solution in the majority of homes.
The golden rule is simple:
The temperature should be lowered by 2 to 4°C compared to the daytime heating, but not turned off completely.
Concrete example:
Daytime temperature: 19 to 20°C
Ideal nighttime temperature: 16 to 17°C
This slight decrease allows:
Immediate energy savings.
Improved thermal comfort upon waking.
Protection of the system against humidity and frost.
Why switching off the heating completely can cost more.
Contrary to what many believe, completely switching off the heating can lead to:
Contrary to what many believe, completely turning off the heating can lead to:
1. Increased energy consumption upon restarting:
When the house is completely cold, the boiler or radiators must operate at full power in the morning to raise the temperature.
As a result, the savings made overnight are often negated upon waking.
2. Increased humidity in the home.
A cool home promotes:
Condensation,
mold,
wall deterioration
, and humid air are more difficult and expensive to heat.
3. Thermal discomfort that is dangerous to health.
According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization, the indoor temperature should not fall below 16°C, particularly for:
The elderly
, children,
and vulnerable individuals:
How much can you actually save by lowering the heating at night?
Experts agree on a simple figure:
Lowering the temperature by 1°C results in approximately 7% energy savings.
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