The cold, brittle months of winter can cause havoc for the home and with the recent cold temperatures in the UK, many homeowners have been guilty of sleeping with their central heating on full blast overnight. 

However, experts have warned people why they should switch off their heating at night. 

Not only can it cause extreme issues for the home such as mould on the walls and wasted energy but it can also leave individuals with a hefty bill. 

Experts at designer radiator specialists  BestHeating have shared their advice on how to keep warm and reduce the risk of mould growing. 

Even better, one of the tips includes something many people already have inside their homes.

Wasted energy

Energy prices continue to be high with the recent price cap rise so leaving the central heating running throughout the night means you’ll likely be left with a hefty energy bill.

Jess Steele, heating technology expert at BestHe, said, said: “The best way to keep warm at night without leaving the central heating on is to have your radiators running for a few hours in the evening and then set a timer so that the heating comes on an hour before you plan to wake up. 

“That way you don’t need to completely turn the heating off and your boiler won’t have to work as hard to come back on.”

Mould on walls

Another effect of leaving the heating on high overnight is it can also harm someone’s health and home.

According to the UK government website, "damp and mould predominantly affect the airways and lungs".

General symptoms include "coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath" with an "increased risk of airway infections, including aspergillosis (an infection of the airways with the fungus Aspergillus".

Steele continued: “Having the heating on for short periods of time is a good idea to prevent mould growth, especially in the morning but having it on all night can cause the warmer air to hold and trap excess moisture.

"When the warm air comes into contact with the icy cold windows, it can cause window condensation which then develops into a mould problem.”

She added: “If you’re looking for more ways to keep warm at night without cranking up the heating, there are plenty of guides available online that tell you all the ways to stay toasty in bed.

"One great tip is to opt for flannel sheets and fleece bedding to escape the winter chill, both materials are reasonably priced and act as great insulators.”