Edward Marchesi The arrival of the cold season inevitably brings with it the need to turn the heating back on, especially in large northern conurbations like Milan and Turin , where it is scheduled to be turned on from October 15th . In this context, the ENEA Department of Energy Efficiency has published a series of guidelines aimed at containing household energy costs without sacrificing internal well-being.
According to analyses conducted by the organization, repeating the containment measures adopted in 2022 would result in a reduction of 0,8 billion cubic meters of gas, enough to heat nearly 700 homes . The savings are the result of small adjustments—a 15-day reduction in the heating season, one hour fewer hours of operation per day, and a one-degree reduction in indoor temperatures.
The four operational guidelines proposed by ENEA
1. Set to 19°C and respect the switch-on times
The recommended temperature is 19°C . Every degree less allows a saving of up to 10% of fuel. It is essential, however, to adapt the operating hours to regional regulations: the coldest climate zones (F and E) will activate the heating from October 15th , the central zones (D) from November 1st , and the southern zones (C, B, A) from November 15th and December 1st respectively.
Ilaria Bertini , director of the department, emphasizes the importance of aligning settings with guidelines to avoid unnecessary waste.
2. Reduce heat loss
Proper use of radiators is crucial: they should not be covered by curtains or furniture. Windows also require attention; during the night or when outside temperatures are higher, it's advisable to lower the blinds or install heavy curtains. A few minutes of air exchange during the hottest hours of the day is enough to eliminate CO₂ and organic vapors, maintaining a healthy environment without compromising efficiency.
3. Choose highly efficient technologies
Replacing old boilers with latest-generation heat pumps or condensing boilers can reduce overall consumption by up to 25% . These systems, combined with thermostatic valves and advanced control systems, exploit renewable energy and integrate smart meters that monitor consumption in real time, immediately reporting faults or abnormal leaks.
4. Periodic maintenance and professional check-up
A regularly inspected system not only complies with regulations (fines starting from €500) but can also reduce consumption by up to 40% . Cleaning the exchangers, checking pressures, and inspecting valves are essential to ensure maximum efficiency and safety of the entire system.
Environmental impact and overall savings
The immediate measures—those listed above—promise savings of 0,8 billion cubic meters . However, Professor Nicolandrea Calabrese , head of the ENEA Laboratory for Energy Efficiency in Buildings and Urban Development, highlights that to achieve lasting benefits, investments in structural interventions, such as thermal insulation of walls and the replacement of obsolete systems, are necessary. These additional actions could lead to a further savings of 0,1 billion cubic meters , bringing the total to 0,9 billion cubic meters avoided in the residential sector.
The concept of thermohygrometric comfort is central: in addition to air temperature, it's important to consider the radiant temperature of surfaces, humidity (ideally between 40% and 60%), and air velocity. A room with cold walls or poorly insulated windows can make you feel cold even if the thermostat is set above 20°C. The clothing and physical activity of the occupants further influence thermal perception.
ENEA's approach combines informed behaviors (temperature regulation, time management) with advanced technological solutions (heat pumps, smart meters), and structural interventions (insulation). Only with this combination is it possible to address the current energy emergency, reduce dependence on gas, and ensure a more comfortable and sustainable winter for Italian families.