Plumber Advises on Smart Heating Settings to Cut Costs

As energy costs continue to rise, plumber Fraser Hoehle has shared a simple heating adjustment that could help households save money this winter. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent temperature within homes, advising that setting the thermostat between 17 and 19 degrees Celsius can significantly reduce energy consumption.

Hoehle, who gained popularity on social media for his practical energy-saving tips, recently posted a video that garnered over 67,000 views. In the video, he explained that allowing heating systems to cool down before reheating them is an energy-intensive practice. “A lot of people time their heating to come on at a certain temperature or time,” he noted. “In my opinion, the most cost-effective way of heating my home is to set a target temperature between 17 and 19 degrees. When it drops below that by a degree or so, it’ll bump up and heat it up.”

By keeping the heating system at a steady temperature, homeowners can avoid the costs associated with frequent heating cycles. Hoehle elaborated, “If your heating is constantly kicking off, it’s always cooling down, and so it takes more energy to bring it back up to temperature.” He encourages people to adopt this strategy to maintain comfort while also saving on energy bills.

Changes to Energy Credits and Support Policies

This winter, many households in Ireland will face a different financial landscape as the government has confirmed the absence of energy credits, which were previously available as part of the Budget 2025. The budget had previously included two €125 credits scheduled for disbursement in November and January.

Instead, the government plans to introduce targeted supports through the social welfare system, which may involve extending the Fuel Allowance to a larger number of households. The Fuel Allowance currently assists over 400,000 households in Ireland by providing a means-tested payment over 28 weeks to help cover heating costs during winter months.

Despite the changes to energy credits, Energy Minister Darragh O’Brien has indicated a desire to keep the lower VAT rate on gas and electricity, a measure that has been in place for three years as a cost of living support initiative. O’Brien has ruled out any further energy credits for households, focusing instead on ensuring that the most vulnerable can access necessary assistance in managing their heating expenses.

As the winter months approach, both consumers and policymakers will need to adapt to the evolving energy landscape. Hoehle’s practical advice on adjusting heating settings represents a proactive step that individuals can take to mitigate rising costs. By implementing his recommendations, households may find relief amidst the ongoing challenges of the cost of living crisis.