British Gas has issued an urgent warning to millions of UK homeowners as temperatures drop and households prepare to switch on their central heating this weekend. The energy giant predicts that 34,000 homes across Britain will be affected by boiler breakdowns, leading to emergency calls for heating and hot water repairs.
Surge in emergency calls expected
The alert comes as Met Office forecasters warn of a bitter autumn chill sweeping across the UK over the coming weeks. Data shows that the vast majority of households turn on their heating by late October, creating a massive surge in emergency calls to service networks.
Energy bosses are urging Brits to act immediately to perform crucial checks on their home heating systems before the mercury drops further.
Engineer's advice for homeowners
British Gas service and repair engineer Peter Knowles warned: "After the warmer summer months, it's easy to put off some of those jobs around the home until the weather takes a turn. But getting ahead now can make all the difference. Checking your boiler and radiators are working as they should, protecting pipes and making sure your home is ready for wetter weather are all simple things you can do before winter sets in."
Energy experts recommend carrying out a few crucial checks before firing up your heating this winter. Start with the heating system itself by checking boiler pressure, bleeding radiators to release trapped air, and wrapping exposed pipes to prevent freezing and costly bursts.
Key checks and potential surcharges
It is also vital to know where your main stopcock valve is located in an emergency and to optimise thermostat settings using zonal heating if available. To keep the warmth in, seal any draughts around doors and windows, inspect your roof for loose tiles, and clear leaves from gutters to prevent damp. Finally, move sofas and thick curtains away from radiators so heat can circulate freely and check online to see if you qualify for official Government energy grants or support schemes.
The emergency heating alert comes as millions of households face potential new surcharges when replacing old gas boilers. Ministers are considering doubling strict sales targets for heat pump installations. Under current rules, boiler manufacturers face heavy fines if they fail to sell enough eco-friendly heat pumps - costs that are quietly passed on to consumers as a £100 surcharge on traditional gas boilers.
Reports suggest proposed quota increases could send this hidden fee soaring to £140 per boiler, adding even more financial pain for households struggling with energy bills this winter.
