Overview
- British Gas issued a “prepare now” alert after more than 1.2 million homes required engineer visits for boiler issues last winter.
- Engineers warn hidden defects often show when heating is restarted, so homeowners are urged to bleed radiators and check cold boiler pressure sits near 1–1.5 bar.
- Experts advise setting thermostats within 18–21°C, with the Energy Saving Trust estimating a 1°C reduction can save about £90 a year and the WHO recommending at least 18°C for healthy people.
- Low‑cost steps such as sealing draughts, insulating pipes, using timers, keeping radiators unblocked, and closing curtains early can boost efficiency and cut bills.
- Households are told to expect backlogs during cold snaps and to call qualified engineers for leaks, corrosion, persistent uneven heating, or issues unresolved by basic checks.