Experts have named two simple actions to save £700 on heating this autumn.

Expert recommendations for preparing for winter

According to The Sun: Experts have urged all households to perform two simple tasks before winter begins, which could save up to £700.

A survey of 2000 adults showed that 37% of people ignored the need to bleed their radiators before the first chill. This reduces their effectiveness and places extra strain on the boiler.

When temperatures fell, 59% of respondents noticed that their radiators were working inefficiently, resulting in an average repair bill of £330.

Among other findings, 31% admitted that they skipped their annual boiler servicing, and more than half of them (52%) experienced breakdowns when the days became shorter, costing an average of £392 for repairs.

The study also found that many people postpone carrying out basic tasks such as checking insulation (23%) and sealing (23%).

52% confirmed that they found themselves in uncomfortable situations when cold days arrived.

Winter checklist

To help Britons prepare for winter and lessen the financial burden, the organization Smart Energy GB, which conducted this research, together with National Energy Action and professional organizer Dilly Carter, prepared a Winter Preparation Checklist.

This lists simple steps in chronological order, such as checking the boiler, bleeding radiators, and installing a smart meter.

Dilly Carter said: “Taking action now can make a significant difference when the weather turns colder.”

Experts also noted that 32% start preparing for winter only when it has already arrived, while 28% consciously avoid thinking about it to not spoil their summer.

At the same time, 20% of households believe that winter starts later each year. The average date when people realize the season has arrived is October 23, exactly one month away.

Despite the awareness of the need to prepare, 38% admit that they forget about it while the weather is still mild.

Dan Barnes from National Energy Action noted: “We know that for many, cutting costs is a challenging task, but with winter approaching, there can be small adjustments in energy use that lead to savings.”

66% of people feel that rising utility bills take control away from them during the cold months, and 59% are already starting to worry about energy costs this winter.

About half (45%) would feel more in control if they knew their energy bills were accurate and that they were only paying for what they used.

Among those with a smart meter, 44% admitted that the display gives them more clarity about their energy usage.

Victoria Bacon, director of Smart Energy GB, said: “There are just a few weeks left until Britons feel the onset of winter, so now is the best time to prepare your home.”

Winter preparation checklist

● 4-5 weeks before winter: Check your boiler – turn it on and pay attention to any warning codes or unusual sounds. Be sure to schedule your annual service with a professional to ensure effective operation throughout winter.

● 4 weeks before winter: Consider lowering the temperature of the boiler’s water supply – this will help it work more efficiently.

● 3 weeks before winter: Check the settings of the heating and hot water timer.

● 2 weeks before winter: Bleed the radiators and check their efficiency.

● 1 week before winter: Eliminate drafts using simple sealing methods.

● During winter: Aim to keep the temperature in your home between 18 and 21 degrees.

This preparation checklist provides clear and straightforward guidelines that can significantly ease the lives of households during the cold season. Timely preparation can help avoid extra repair costs and ensure comfort in the home during the winter months.

Implementing these recommendations can significantly reduce heating costs as well as allow for better control over energy consumption. Energy savings and comfort at home are important factors to consider before the winter chill sets in.