Get ready before the thermostat goes on
British Gas is telling households to run a few quick checks now that colder mornings have arrived. The supplier expects around 34,000 homes to need heating or hot-water help in the coming days after a mild autumn. Simple jobs such as topping up boiler pressure, bleeding radiators and clearing gutters can stop small issues turning into expensive call-outs once the heating stays on.
Practical steps that actually help
Check the pressure gauge when the system is cold; it should sit between 1 and 1.5 bar. Bleed radiators if the top stays cooler than the bottom, then re-check pressure afterwards. Wrap exposed pipes in lofts and garages with cheap insulation to reduce the risk of bursts. Clear leaves from gutters while access is still safe, and locate the stopcock so everyone in the house knows where it is.
“Checking your boiler and radiators are working as they should, protecting pipes and making sure your home is ready for wetter weather are all simple things you can do before winter sets in.”
Peter Knowles, British Gas service and repair engineer
Extra support if bills are already tight
British Gas says anyone struggling with energy debt can contact the British Gas Energy Trust for grants of up to £1,700. The supplier also aims to send an engineer the same day for customers who call before 11am, even if they are not on a British Gas contract.
We have a full guide to current energy tariffs and support schemes at Gas electricity.
