British Gas warns UK households to ‘prepare now’ for winter

Published: 13 October 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Millions of UK households have been urged to take early action ahead of the colder months, as British Gas warns that most people will switch on their heating systems by the end of October. The energy provider highlighted that last winter alone, over 1.2 million customers required engineer call-outs to repair broken boilers and restore essential heating and hot water services, underscoring the importance of preparation.

While some households turn their heating on during the first cold snap in September, company data indicates that most residents wait until late October or until temperatures consistently fall below 9 °C for four consecutive days. Sunny Solanky, a British Gas service and repair engineer, explained that this timing often exposes issues with boilers that have lain dormant throughout the warmer months. “Now that summer is behind us, many people will be thinking about turning their heating back on for the first time since last winter, and that’s often when unwanted issues can appear,” he said.

Solanky emphasised that maintaining a boiler in good working order is essential for a smooth start to the heating season, but simple adjustments around the home can also significantly improve comfort and energy efficiency. Among the key recommendations is bleeding radiators, a task necessary when the top of a radiator feels cooler than the bottom, suggesting trapped air is preventing heat circulation. The process involves using a radiator key to gently open the valve at the top, allowing air to escape before securely closing it again.

Households are also advised to seal windows and doors using self-adhesive foam strips around frames, draught excluders beneath doors, keyhole covers, and letterbox brushes to prevent cold air from entering the home. Ensuring that heavy furniture does not block radiators, using thicker curtains, and laying rugs on bare floors can further help retain heat, while adopting a “zonal heating” approach by avoiding warming rooms that are not in use can reduce energy waste.

Pipe insulation is another critical step, as unprotected pipes can crack or burst when water inside freezes. British Gas recommends keeping thermostats set between 18 °C and 21 °C to maintain comfort while avoiding unnecessary costs. The company notes that lowering the thermostat by just one degree can reduce heating bills by around 10 per cent, saving the average household approximately £75 per year.

Solanky also encouraged households to programme their heating systems efficiently. “Scheduling your heating to switch on about 15 minutes before you get up and to turn off half an hour before bedtime ensures your home is warm when needed and reduces wasted energy,” he said. Such simple measures, alongside boiler maintenance and proper insulation, can dramatically improve both comfort and cost-efficiency throughout the winter months.

British Gas’ warning comes as energy bills continue to be a major concern for many households in the UK, particularly following recent years of high inflation and rising costs in the energy sector. With temperatures expected to drop steadily over the coming weeks, the company is urging residents to prepare their heating systems early to avoid last-minute disruptions and emergency repairs.

Beyond mechanical preparation, the advice also includes practical tips for household energy management. For instance, closing doors to unused rooms, avoiding placing furniture in front of radiators, and covering bare floors with rugs can all help reduce heat loss. Draught-proofing homes not only keeps residents warmer but also contributes to energy efficiency, reducing unnecessary expenditure.

Experts say that many of these steps are quick and inexpensive but can prevent larger problems and costs later in the season. British Gas encourages customers to carry out checks on their boilers, including ensuring pressure levels are correct, inspecting for leaks, and arranging professional servicing if necessary. Regular servicing can help detect faults before they become serious and can extend the life of the boiler, saving households from unexpected outages.

For households reliant on older boilers or central heating systems, early intervention is particularly important. Engineers frequently report that boiler failures occur when systems are first turned on after months of inactivity, often due to corrosion, airlocks, or minor leaks that worsen over time. By performing simple maintenance tasks such as bleeding radiators, checking thermostats, and ensuring pipes are insulated, homeowners can reduce the likelihood of costly call-outs.

The importance of preparation is further emphasised by seasonal patterns in energy usage. Historically, peak demand in the UK occurs during late October and November, when households collectively begin heating their homes more consistently. This surge can strain energy systems and, if equipment fails, lead to delays in emergency repairs due to high demand. By acting early, residents not only protect their own comfort but also help reduce pressure on the wider energy network.

British Gas’ campaign also highlights the broader benefits of proactive energy management. Simple behavioural changes, such as adjusting thermostats and only heating occupied rooms, not only save money but also contribute to reducing household carbon footprints. In combination with insulation improvements, these actions can make homes warmer, more energy-efficient, and more resilient during prolonged periods of cold weather.

The company’s advice aligns with recommendations from other energy providers and consumer groups, which stress the importance of early winter preparation to prevent avoidable breakdowns and protect vulnerable populations. For households with elderly residents or young children, ensuring that heating systems are fully functional is particularly critical, as exposure to prolonged cold can have serious health consequences.

British Gas encourages households to check all aspects of their heating systems well ahead of the coldest months, including thermostats, radiators, and boiler components. Scheduling a professional service, preparing pipes for freezing temperatures, and adopting energy-saving practices can collectively help prevent discomfort, costly repairs, and higher energy bills.

As the UK approaches late October, the message from British Gas is clear: households should not wait until the first frost to check their heating. Early preparation ensures that homes remain warm and safe throughout the winter, protects against sudden breakdowns, and allows residents to manage energy costs effectively. By following these straightforward steps, families can face the colder months with confidence and comfort.