British Gas urges basic boiler check to avoid £350 bill
Households should turn their boilers on for 10-15 minutes every few weeks during the autumn even if it's not cold enough to put the heating on, according to the energy provider.
As the average gas and electric bill across the UK has risen in line with the new price cap, families will be looking to delay switching on the heating for as long as possible.
However, this could be counter-productive as switching on the boiler can prevent parts from "seizing up" according to British Gas.
Simply 10-15 minutes every few weeks is all that's needed to keep your boiler active.
A British Gas spokesperson said repairs can reach as much as £350 if a boiler breaks down.
British Gas says: "Like a car that hasn’t started for a while, your boiler can seize up if it’s left off for prolonged periods, leading to expensive breakdowns. So switch your heating on once a week during the warmer months – just 15 minutes will do – to keep it ticking over." British Gas shared other tips to improve boiler efficiency:
- Keep your boiler clean (yes, wipe it so dust doesn't clock up pipes!)
- Bleed your radiators
- Top up the pressure
- See if you need a powerflush to remove built up debris within the radiators to stop corrosion
- Insulate pipes
- Book an annual boiler service.
The experts at NimbleFins also have 11 ways to save energy in the home by using less and making things more efficient:
- Check your boiler's flow settings
- Get the most out of your radiators
- Bleed your radiators
- Not using your chimney? Block it
- Block drafts
- Close the curtains
- Shower instead of bath
- Avoid electric heaters
- Fill up your dishwasher and washing machine
- Turn it down 1C
- Dodge the tumble dryer
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