05 October 2023 , 13:32
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The temperature is dropping as autumn sets in, with many of us now contemplating whether it's time to turn the heating on. Heating experts have revealed there is an ideal time to flip the switch - and it's sooner than you think.
But before we bask in the heat from our radiators, there's one important task we need to do to ensure we stay toasty all winter-long. We are being urged to turn our boilers on now before it really gets cold.
Mark Ingram, tutor at Engineering Real Results, told the Express: "The best time to carry out a check on your boiler is right away before the temperature really starts to drop and Gas Safe engineers up and down the country are in high demand and short supply.
"It's a good idea to turn your heating on for short spells so you can check everything is still ok with the system." He added: "As a general rule, boilers usually need replacing every 15 years. They are a real investment and should be treated in the same way as a car, so paying for a regular service is always recommended."
There are some warning signs that your boiler needs a service. Water leaks near the boiler are a big red flag, so make sure you turn it off and call an expert. Similarly, any whistling and banging noises need checking out because they could indicate broken parts or wear and tear. Mark also advises checking your radiators get to full temperature. If homeowners are finding they are taking a while to get hot, it could indicate a fault.
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It comes after a heating bill expert shared a top radiator trick to help keep rooms as warm as possible for longer. It's important to make sure your curtains aren't covering your radiators when the central heating is turned on, otherwise you will only direct heat towards your windows and it will escape from the room, rather than warming it up.
Chris Shaw the CEO of Utility Bidder also advised making the most of daylight and keeping curtains and blinds open during the day to let the sun in to aid in heating different rooms in the house. Also try strategically placing furniture out of the way of the radiators, as they'll soak up heat if they're directly in front of it, and ensuring you are keeping out any drafts in your house by checking any pet flaps and your letter box for potential drafts.