Martin Lewis has been asked to give his view on one of the biggest winter energy debates, whether it is cheaper to leave your heating on all day or only switch it on when you need it.
The Money Saving Expert founder shared his advice on ITV's This Morning as households prepare for colder weather, with many starting to reach for blankets, hot water bottles and the central heating controls.
Martin said that, for most people, it is generally more efficient to heat their homes when needed rather than leave the heating running constantly.
Best to keep the heating on low all day? Does foil behind radiators work? Is now the time to fix? Got questions on energy bills, energy efficiency, solar panels & more, that's next week's @ITVMlshow. I'll be joined by specialist heat engineers so pls post questions by reply.
— Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) November 6, 2026
Speaking on the programme, he said: "They say it's better to only put the heating on when you need it. You pay to pump energy in as and when is needed, and to keep pumping it in constantly isn't efficient.
"Using a timer's best, because your thermostat is designed to turn your heating on and off to keep your home at the temperature you set it at. So in general I'd stick with that."
However, Martin warned that this was the "simple answer", explaining that the best approach can depend on the condition of your home.
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He said some engineers argue that keeping the heating on at a low level, with all radiators on and the boiler turned down, could help reduce condensation.
Martin explained: "There are some engineers who argue that keeping the heating on low with all the radiators on and the boiler down can work as it reduces condensation, which when the heating is turned off collects within the walls, and can help conduct heat outside the home.
"This means you lose heat more quickly and will use more energy as a result. So if your house is prone to that you may want to think about it."
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