Experts tell of the best temperature to keep warm and save money

IT is a dilemma faced by many - to turn on the central heating or not. With the cosy of living crisis and cold weather beginning to bite, households are contemplating what to do.

But experts have revealed the best temperature for your thermostat which will keep you warm but also not waste precious cash.

The Energy Saving Trust has said its experts recommend heating your home to between 18c and 21c this winter. It has also been revealed that turning down your thermostat by 1c can save up to 10 per cent on your yearly energy bills.

A Uswitch study previously found around 17 million homes in the UK set their thermostat above 20 degrees c which is much hotter than many people need. However, temperatures should be based on your own circumstances, which vary depending on your age, health, location, and what sort of property you live in.

It has been reported that almost one in four adults plan to leave their heating off all winter due to high energy prices. However, experts have said that heating your home to more than 21c is unnecessary - and will rack up your energy bills.

According to the World Health Organisation, 18c is a good temperature for healthy people, and 20c for the elderly or young people. When sleeping, experts say 18c is the best temperature.

However, Charity Age UK says the elderly should heat their main living area to 21c, with the rest of their home at 18c. Living in low temperatures are a major concern for the older generations.

British Gas says that if a room is less than 9c, it can cause hypothermia. Also, if a room is below 12c, or above 24c, this can increase the risk of strokes and heart attacks.