Exact date UK households 'must' turn heating on as temperatures plunge

The days are shorter, the sunshine has gone and the cold nights are setting in.

No doubt many of us will have one eye on the thermostat already and will be wondering exactly when to start putting the heating on - and unfortunately for our bank balances it's only weeks away.

Heating experts combed through Met Office data from a recent five year period to 2024 to work out the exact date that the temperature is likely to drop low enough to require heating at home.

The NHS advises households that they should put their heating on when the temperature outside drops below 15C, and you should heat your home to at least 18C if you have a health condition, are not very mobile or are aged 65 or over. Babies should sleep in rooms between 16C and 20C, the NHS says.

That means that October 20 is the date we should we switching the thermostat back on, according to Best Heating.

They said: "Once temperatures outside drop below 15° Celsius (C) the NHS advises to put heating on for health reasons, which means that, in line with Met Office data, the date we can expect to use our heating is October 20th.

"From this date, temperatures aren't expected to rise above 15°C for the rest of the year, although 2022 was a particularly warm year and saw temperatures of up to 23°C in October (29th).

"If we are to have similar weather this autumn, then it will be around November 2nd until the boiler is required to work hard.

"Whilst there isn't an optimum time to switch heating on, our research shows that once temperatures are below 15°C, usually in the middle of October, it is best to turn the heating on as we feel the chill more.

"By the end of the month, even the hardiest among us will have our heating on to keep warm as temperatures are predicted to drop even further.

"If it is below 13°C outside then health issues can arise, especially in vulnerable people.

"With many worried about their finances, it can be tempting to hold off putting the heating on but be careful delaying this too long as this can hurt your body.

"For those struggling, we recommend contacting your local council or energy supplier as there are often grants and help available to keep you safe and warm throughout winter."