Households are being warned to avoid several common mistakes before switching their heating back on this autumn, with energy experts saying a few simple checks could help heating systems run more efficiently as temperatures begin to fall.
As summer draws to a close, many homeowners will soon be switching their heating on for the first time in months. However, experts at Your NRG say failing to prepare your heating system properly could leave homes taking longer to warm up and potentially using more energy than necessary.
Gordon Wallis, Energy Expert at Your NRG, said:
"When people switch their heating back on after the summer, there's often a temptation to simply turn the thermostat up and hope everything works as it should. Spending just a few minutes checking your heating system beforehand can make a real difference.
"Many of the most common issues we see each autumn are entirely preventable. A little maintenance before the colder weather arrives can help your heating system perform more efficiently throughout the months ahead.
"The good news is that most of these checks are quick, straightforward, and don't cost anything. Taking the time to do them now could help avoid unnecessary energy waste and reduce the chance of problems developing once temperatures begin to fall.
"It's also worth remembering that if you discover an issue before you actually need your heating every day, you'll have much more time to get it sorted without being left in a cold house."
According to Your NRG, these are the biggest mistakes households make before switching their heating back on.
Ignoring boiler pressure
Low boiler pressure can affect how efficiently your heating system operates and, in some cases, stop it from working properly. Checking the pressure before the weather turns colder could help prevent avoidable issues later in the season.
Forgetting to bleed radiators
If your radiators feel cold at the top but warm at the bottom, trapped air could be preventing them from heating properly. Bleeding radiators before autumn arrives can help heat circulate more effectively around your home.
Leaving furniture in front of radiators
Large sofas, cabinets and even long curtains can block heat from circulating around a room. Moving them slightly away from radiators allows warm air to spread more evenly.
Not testing the thermostat
Many homeowners don't realise there's an issue with their thermostat until the first cold morning. Checking that it responds correctly before you rely on your heating can save time and frustration.
Waiting until temperatures drop
One of the biggest mistakes is waiting until the first cold spell before checking your heating system. By then, heating engineers are often much busier, meaning you could face longer waits if something needs repairing.
Wallis added: "Autumn is the ideal time to give your heating system a quick health check before it becomes part of your daily routine again.
"Simple jobs like checking the boiler pressure, bleeding radiators and making sure nothing is blocking heat from circulating can all help your heating system work more effectively.
"The aim isn't to avoid using your heating. It's to make sure your home warms up efficiently from day one, helping every unit of energy go a little further throughout the colder months."
