British Gas is urging households to prepare for the first cold snap of the season, with a sharp 10-degree drop in temperatures forecast across the UK next week.
Engineers are braced for a 48% rise in call-outs as many switch on their heating for the first time.
Before the seasons change for good, customers are advised to stay one step ahead and prepare their homes before the cold weather draws in.
British Gas data shows that each year there is a mini boiler switch on with the first September cold snap – but the majority turn their heating on in late October (or when there are four consecutive days of minimum temperatures below 9 degrees).
British Gas engineer Sunny Solanky shares practical advice – from bleeding radiators and sealing draughts to embracing smart thermostats and checking boiler health.
“It’s almost that time of year again, as we head into autumn, the nights are starting to get darker and temperatures are dropping," says Sunny.
“But there’s more to preparing for the colder months than dusting off your big coat – it’s important to make sure your home is well-equipped for colder temperatures to ensure you’re saving money on bills and keeping as warm as possible.
“Keeping your boiler in good check is key to this, and making a few simple changes around the home can also help. And if you do run into any issues and you call before 11am, one of our engineers will be with you the same day.”
10 autumn boiler and heating checks that can save money and keep you warmer
- Bleed your radiators: Sometimes, pockets of air can build up inside your radiators, stopping them from heating the room evenly. If you notice the top of your radiators feel cooler than the bottom, switch the system off and let it cool. Then, using a radiator key, gently open the valve at the top to let the air escape before closing it again.
- Keep draughts at bay: Making sure windows and doors are properly sealed can help reduce heat loss and lower energy bills by up to £60 a year. Simple solutions like self-adhesive foam strips around window frames can stop cooler air creeping in, while draught excluders are great for blocking gaps beneath doors. It’s also worth checking smaller openings – inexpensive keyhole covers and letterbox brushes are quick fixes that make a big difference.
- Make the most of your home’s heat: Think carefully about how furniture is arranged in your home so radiators can do their job to the best of their ability. A sofa placed directly in front of a heat source might feel snug, but it stops heat from circulating around the rest of the room. Meanwhile, using thicker curtains helps trap warmth at windows and doors and laying rugs on bare floors can reduce the heat escaping through the ground. And when the sun is shining, remember to open your curtains to let in natural warmth!
- Embrace zonal heating: To save money, avoid heating rooms you aren’t using, for example conservatories or offices that are only needed when you’re working from home. Make sure to switch off the radiator and close the door to prevent cold air from moving through the rest of the house. When you need the room again, turn the radiator back on ahead of time to heat it up. To go one step further, you could install thermostatic radiator valves like these from Hive so you can control the temperature in each room directly from your phone.
- Insulate your pipes: Frozen pipes can cause serious damage, often cracking or bursting when water turns to ice. The simplest way to avoid costly repairs is to stop them freezing in the first place. Wrapping pipes with inexpensive insulation from a DIY store helps retain warmth and reduce heat loss.
- Find your ideal temperature: When the cold sets in, turning up the thermostat might seem like the quickest fix, but keeping it set between 18°C and 21°C is both comfortable and cost-effective. Even a small change makes a difference – reducing the temperature by just one degree could trim around 10% off your heating costs, saving the average household roughly £75 a year.
- Set your heating to suit your routine: Scheduling your heating can help you save energy without sacrificing comfort. Try setting it to switch on about 15 minutes before you get up and to turn off half an hour before bedtime. This not only cuts down on costs but can also support a better night’s sleep. At night, you can further reduce waste by lowering the temperature in rooms that aren’t in use.
- Embrace smart thermostats: Winter is the peak season for energy usage, so take advantage of technology like smart thermostats. These allow you to control your heating at the click of a button and track your spending, helping to save money in the process. For instance, installing a Hive Thermostat can save you up to £175 per year on your heating bill.
- Give your boiler some TLC: It’s often the case that many people don't think about their boiler until it breaks down – but regular maintenance can help avoid future potential problems altogether. British Gas Homecare products offer customers the ability to safeguard their boiler and include an annual service.
- Check if you qualify for energy support: It’s always a good idea to see if you’re eligible for extra help with your energy bills before the cold weather arrives. The British Gas Energy Trust offers face-to-face advice, financial support, and grants of up to £1,700 (even if you’re not a British Gas customer). Many energy providers also have assistance funds to help with energy costs.
Recommended reading:
- Pensioners urged to claim £300 Winter Fuel Payment this week
- Calls to cut State Pension age to 60 backed by thousands
- DWP Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners looming
Don't forget the Warm Home Discount scheme
This winter sees the expansion of the Warm Home Discount scheme for vulnerable households worth £150 to 2.7 million more people.
The Warm Home Discount is a Government scheme that gives eligible households £150 towards their energy costs every year. It was already paid to millions of households in England, Scotland and Wales.
The £150 is typically deducted from your electricity bill, but you may be able to get the discount on your gas bill instead, as long as your supplier provides both your gas and electricity.
The UK Government’s Warm Home Discount resumes in October, with many pensioners automatically having a rebate applied to their bills.
Contact your energy provider for details.
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