Particle.news
Download on the App Store

UK Households Urged to Bleed Radiators Now to Cut Winter Energy Bills

Guidance from British Gas highlights a quick DIY bleed with boiler pressure checks to restore efficient heat distribution.

Overview

  • Consumer advice published on 26 November urges checks before December, noting that trapped air leaves radiators hot at the bottom and cool at the top.
  • Households are told to switch the heating off before bleeding to avoid scalding, then open the top valve slightly until the hissing stops and water flows smoothly.
  • A bleed key or flat‑head screwdriver can be used, with a cloth or container ready to catch water before closing the valve and turning the heating back on.
  • British Gas advises checking the boiler gauge after bleeding, targeting about 1.0–1.5 bar when off and roughly 2 bar when on, with repressurising if needed.
  • Experts cite potential savings reported as estimates, including around 25% or up to £1,000 a year, and recommend repeating the task every few months and keeping boilers serviced.