A study of 2,000 adults found households are caught off guard when winter arrives, with over half admitting they put off basic maintenance – but two simple checks could save you hundreds
Two-thirds of Brits are already fretting over the cost of energy this winter due to escalating household bills. In a bid to help Brits save on expensive repairs, experts are advising all households to complete two simple tasks before the cold weather kicks in, potentially saving up to £700.
The advice comes after a study involving 2,000 adults revealed that households are often caught unprepared when winter strikes. Over half confess they procrastinate on basic maintenance tasks such as checking insulation, draught-proofing, and bleeding their radiators. These simple measures can not only cut down energy bills but also prevent pricey repairs when temperatures plummet.
Two-thirds have had to shell out on average £330 for avoidable repairs, having neglected to bleed their radiators before temperatures dropped, causing them to break.
Meanwhile, 31 per cent admitted to skipping their annual boiler service, which could result in an average repair cost of £392 if the boiler conks out during winter.
To assist Brits in preparing for winter and easing the strain on their budgets, Smart Energy GB, which commissioned the research, has partnered with National Energy Action and Dilly Carter, a professional organiser from Sort Your Life Out, to release a Winter Prep Checklist.
Dilly Carter said: “Taking action now can have a huge impact when the weather turns colder. A little prep can go a long way when it comes to getting your home ready for winter.
“Putting a rug on cold floors, servicing your boiler, adding extra DIY draught-proofing and checking your smart meter can help keep the chill out and the bills down.”
Danni Barnes from National Energy Action added that checking your energy usage with a smart meter can also help you prepare for winter.
She said: “Smart meters allow you to better track energy usage, ensure accurate billing and, with more smart tariffs entering the market, you may be able to switch to a smart tariff that can save you money.”
The study found 32 per cent only start preparing for winter when it has already arrived, with 23rd October – exactly a month away – emerging as the average date people recognise the season has arrived.
A third deliberately avoid thinking about winter preparations to avoid spoiling their summer. While 38 per cent admit they forget to do anything while the weather is still mild.
Victoria Bacon, director at Smart Energy GB, said: “With only a few weeks to go until Brits feel like winter starts, now is the ideal time to start preparing your home. Planning ahead can help you later down the line.
“Servicing the boiler now, getting a smart meter installed, and participating in an energy reward scheme can all help to ensure energy usage across the winter months is as cost effective as possible.”
WINTER PREP CHECKLIST:
4-5 weeks before winter:
Check your boiler – turn it on and take note of any warning codes or funny noises. Make sure you get it serviced by a professional once a year to ensure it’ll run efficiently throughout winter. This could save you from spending extra on emergency call-outs or last-minute repairs.
4 weeks before winter:
Think about lowering your boiler’s flow temperature – this helps make your boiler run more efficiently but keeps your water hot when needed. Find out how HERE.
3 weeks before winter:
Check the settings on your heating and hot water timer. You can programme it to turn off while you are out or asleep and set it to come on just before you return home or wake up, keeping the temperature comfortable.
2 weeks before winter:
You may need to bleed your radiators every few months. Bleed them now and check they’re working effectively. Then in the winter, check them every few weeks when you’re walking past. If the heating is on but the top of the radiator is cold, it’s time to bleed them.
1 week before winter:
Taking care of draughts before the temperatures drop means you’ll stay warmer and save on heating costs once winter sets in. Draught excluders are a simple, low-cost way to stop the chill sneaking in through gaps around doors and windows. You can buy them from home or hardware shops, or you can make your own using rolled-up blankets, socks, or old jumpers.
During winter:
Once the chilly nights are here, try to keep your home between 18 and 21 degrees. Don’t replace your central heating with electric heaters – it could cost you more.