With winter fast approaching, many UK households are contemplating the best time to switch on their central heating systems. At Neater Heat, we’ve been closely monitoring the trends, and we have an interesting prediction to share. It appears that this year, the majority of households are likely to embrace the warmth of their heating systems on Sunday, October 15th.
Why the Delay in Turning On the Heating?
Recent research, as compiled by Uswitch, highlights a fascinating trend: a significant number of British households are choosing to postpone activating their heating systems this autumn. The primary reason behind this delay is a growing concern about rising energy costs. As of October 1, Ofgem reduced the energy price cap by £151, from £2,074 per year to £1,923. However, despite this reduction, some households are still cautious about energy expenses, especially with the awareness of increased standing charges, as noted by Martin Lewis.
The Importance of Servicing and Boiler Cover
Naturally, before firing up your boiler for the winter, it’s crucial to ensure that everything is in perfect working order. Servicing your boiler, particularly if it hasn’t been inspected within the last year, is a smart move. The last thing anyone wants is to experience a boiler breakdown during the chilliest days of the year when demand for engineers is at its peak.
Additionally, for those with boilers that have surpassed the five-year mark, considering boiler cover is a prudent choice. This added layer of protection can offer peace of mind against unexpected and costly surprises.
Optimising Your Heating System
To make the most of your heating system when you do decide to turn it on, some tweaks can help maximize both comfort and energy efficiency.
Start by reviewing your thermostat settings. Adjust them as needed to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. The World Health Organisation recommends around 18 degrees Celsius for most healthy individuals.
An energy-saving strategy for those with combination boilers is to reduce the flow rate to approximately 60 degrees Celsius. This seemingly minor adjustment can yield noticeable savings on heating costs without compromising your comfort.
Don’t forget to assess your radiators. Before the cold weather sets in, ensure they are functioning efficiently. Bleeding your radiators can help eliminate cold spots, and consider turning down or off radiator valves in less frequently used rooms. This strategy helps ensure an even distribution of heat throughout your home.
Advice from Natalie Mathie
Natalie Mathie, an energy expert at Uswitch.com, offers invaluable advice: “There’s nothing worse than having your boiler break down when it’s freezing outside and every engineer is busy, so it makes sense to check your boiler is serviced now. If you’ve got a boiler that’s more than five years old, it’s worth looking into boiler cover to protect yourself from any nasty shocks.”
In conclusion, Neater Heat predicts that the majority of UK households will likely embrace the warmth of their heating systems on Sunday, October 15th. However, the exact timing depends on individual preferences, cost considerations, and the condition of your heating system. Preparing your heating system in advance, optimising your thermostat and boiler settings, and considering boiler cover for older units are all wise steps to ensure a cosy and cost-effective winter season.
