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Autumn Heating Tips: Keep Warm and Save Money

Whilst the days recently have been sunny, the nights have been surprisingly cold, with an autumn chill starting early this September. Many of us will soon be reaching for the thermostat to take the edge off those colder days and nights- and some of us already have! But before you dive into full heating mode, here are a few essential tips to ensure your heating system is ready and running efficiently, helping you stay warm without breaking the bank.

1. Test Your Heating Early

In the same way that your car doesn't benefit from long periods of disuse, neither does your heating system. After months of inactivity, it’s a good idea to test your heating system before the truly cold nights arrive. Running it now can help you identify potential issues such as faulty pumps, valves, or blockages. This proactive step allows you to fix any problems before they escalate into more expensive repairs during the winter. Plus, firing up your heating intermittently during autumn helps prevent corrosion and blockages in the system.

2. Bleed Your Radiators

Bleeding your radiators ensures that any trapped air is released, allowing your system to operate at maximum efficiency. This simple task helps radiators distribute heat evenly, reducing cold spots and ensuring your home heats up faster.

3. Don't Turn the Heat Up Too High

When the cold weather suddenly hits, it can be very tempting to set heating on high, going from zero to 24 degrees in an instant. However, we recommending raising the heat gradually by adjusting your thermostat in increments until you reach the desired temperature. This gives your heating system time to adjust and prevents your boiler from working overtime, helping avoid higher energy bills. Gradual adjustments will still make your home comfortable without causing a spike in fuel costs.

adjusting-thermostat

4. Clear the Clutter Around Your Boiler

Boilers often get stashed in cupboards or closets that accumulate clutter over time. During the summer, it’s easy to forget about these areas, but it’s essential to keep the space around your boiler clear. Proper ventilation is crucial for safe and efficient operation, so make sure no household items are blocking airflow.

5. Consider a Boiler Service

If your boiler isn’t running as smoothly as it should, it might be time for a service. Routine maintenance, including cleaning and flushing the system, can help diagnose any hidden faults. Regular servicing also prolongs the life of your boiler and protects existing warranties. If your boiler is due a service, don't hesitate to contact us at JJS Gas & Heating for help.

6. When Should You Turn the Heating On?

According to the NHS, once outdoor temperatures consistently drop below 15°C, it’s time to start using your heating, especially for health reasons. Based on UK weather data, we can expect this to happen around October 20th. 

For the more resilient among us, November 2nd is when the boiler may need to work harder, but by mid-October, most people will have turned up the heat. Don’t delay too long, though, as temperatures below 13°C can lead to health issues, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

man-drinking-hot-beverage-energy-crisis

7. Energy-Saving Tips to Keep Bills Down

With rising energy costs, everyone is looking for ways to save money while staying warm. Here are three top tips:

  • Heat Only the Rooms You Use: Don’t waste energy heating unused spaces. Turn off radiators in unoccupied rooms, but keep heating on in the area where your thermostat is located to avoid affecting the system’s efficiency.

  • Lower the Thermostat by 1°C: Dropping the temperature slightly can make a big difference. Most UK homes are heated to around 20.8°C, but 18°C should keep you comfortable while saving up to 10% on energy bills.

  • Choose Optimal Times to Heat: Be strategic with when you heat your home. Set your heating to come on about an hour before you wake up to avoid a morning chill, and do the same for when you return home in the evening. Smart thermostats can help you automate these adjustments and avoid wasting energy.

When Will You Turn On the Heating?

Everyone has their own threshold for cold weather. Some of us are happy to bundle up in extra layers, while others crank the heating up at the first sign of chilly weather. What’s your plan? Will you hold off until November or have you already turned it on? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Need Help With Your Heating System?

Feel free to contact us at JJS Gas and Heating any time. We're a Gas Safe Registered team of engineers working across Kent and the South-East, available to support you with heating, boiler and plumbing needs. Call us on 07887 403276 or email us at info@jjsgasandheating.co.uk

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