British Gas, OVO and Octopus customers warned turning off heating may cost £13k

02 November 2023 , 16:39

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Turning off your heating this winter to save money could actually have the opposite desired effect, an expert warns (Image: PA)

Brits have been warned that turning off their heating this winter could lead to a hefty £13,000 bill.

Customers of energy companies like OVO, Octopus, British Gas, EDF, E.On, Bulb and Shell may delay or avoid turning on their heating to save money. However, experts warn that this could end up costing them more in the long run.

The news comes as the cost of living crisis continues to impact people across the country, and while the energy bill cap has fallen slightly this winter the annual Ofgem-set figure is still at a staggering £1,834. Last winter saw a 75% increase in claims for burst water pipes meanwhile, as 13million households chose not to use their heating to save money.

The average repair bill rose by nearly £4,000 to a staggering £12,791, according to figures from insurer Zurich, Birmingham Live reports. Paul Redington, Zurich's regional major loss manager, warned that while high energy bills might tempt many to delay turning on the heating, it could prove to be a false economy. "As temperatures begin to drop, the risk of frozen water leading to burst and damaged pipes rises," he said. "Much of this can be attributed to households trying to save energy."

He added: "They should be aware that escape of water could lead to thousands of pounds worth of damage, and even the misery of potentially being out of your home at Christmas. In the worst cases, a burst pipe often forces people into alternative accommodation, while their property is dried and repaired.".

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He added: "Insulate external taps or pipes that feed combi-boilers to protect from frost. Check for leaks in high-risk areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and boiler rooms at least once a year. You may need to drain all pipes, tanks and heating systems and disconnect water supplies. Consider an annual inspection and maintenance contract, and keep insurance details and emergency call-out numbers to hand."

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Susie Beever