Latest research by Toolstation has revealed 22nd October to be the day for a big switch on for central heating in the UK – a week before the clocks go back.
Research found that 60% of households were worried about being able to afford to keep their home warm during the winter months though.
Half of households were also concerned about the costs of keeping their power on over a long period and have argued with other members of their household about when to turn the heating on for winter.
Only 28% of households check their radiators are working correctly before they’re ready to use them in the winter.
Meanwhile, 21% of households only service their boiler every five years, despite professional advice that boilers should be checked annually.
Overall, 43% of plumbers said they expected to see a sharp increase in call-outs to fix broken boilers, blocked waste pipes and leaking central heating pipes, while 63% also highlighted leaking or broken radiators as the most common issue they expect to be called out for.
David Taylor, head of buying at Toolstation says: “Turning on the central heating is the sure sign of autumn arriving, and this year the big switch on is set for the 22nd October – a week before the clocks go back. The colder nights, and darker nights and mornings means we’ll use more light, heat and energy to keep our homes warm. It’s important that households know whether their boilers are working as with the cold weather and energy prices increasing, this could be an expensive time. Whether you’re an early bird or someone who likes to layer up in jumpers and socks before reaching for the heating switch, it’s important that you regularly get your boiler checked and consider insulating your home to help conserve energy.”