Boiler Servicing Crucial for Energy Customers Facing Rising Bills
Energy customers in the UK are facing a significant increase in their energy bills, with a 10 per cent hike set to take effect from October 1. This means households could be paying an additional £149 per year for their energy consumption. As a result, it is crucial for customers of energy providers such as British Gas, OVO, EDF, EON, and Octopus to take proactive steps to ensure their boilers are in good working condition.
Adam Clark, founder of My Local Toolbox, emphasizes the importance of servicing boilers before the new hike in energy bills. According to the Energy Saving Trust, even a 10 per cent drop in boiler efficiency can lead to an extra £200 in heating bills annually for homeowners. In addition, bleeding radiators can result in significant savings, with potential savings of up to £342.20.
How to Bleed Your Radiator
To maintain the efficiency of your heating system and save on energy costs, bleeding your radiators is a simple yet effective task that can be done by homeowners. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to bleed your radiator:
1. Turn the heating off: Before you start bleeding your radiators, ensure that the heating system is turned off and the radiators are cool to the touch.
2. Identify the bleed valve: Locate the bleed valve on the side of the radiator towards the top. Place a drip tray or cloth underneath to catch any drips.
3. Insert the bleed key: Use a valve key to turn the bleed valve anti-clockwise until you hear a hissing sound, indicating that air is escaping. Once water starts to come out, close the valve.
4. Repeat on all radiators: If you have multiple radiators that need bleeding, repeat the process on each one.
5. Turn the heating back on: After bleeding all the radiators, turn the heating system back on to ensure everything is working correctly.
By regularly bleeding your radiators, you can improve the efficiency of your heating system and potentially lower your energy bills.
Importance of Boiler Maintenance
In addition to bleeding radiators, servicing your boiler is essential for maintaining its efficiency and ensuring it operates effectively. Regular boiler maintenance can prolong the lifespan of the appliance, improve its performance, and prevent costly repairs in the future.
Mr. Clark advises homeowners to service their boilers before the impending increase in energy bills. By ensuring that your boiler is in good working condition, you can avoid unnecessary energy wastage and reduce heating costs. It is recommended to schedule a professional boiler service annually to address any issues and maintain optimal performance.
Furthermore, maintaining your boiler can contribute to a safer home environment by reducing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks and other hazards associated with faulty boilers. By prioritizing boiler maintenance, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their heating system is operating efficiently and safely.
In conclusion, energy customers should take proactive steps to service their boilers and bleed radiators to prepare for the upcoming increase in energy bills. By investing time and effort in maintaining their heating systems, homeowners can save money on energy costs and ensure the comfort and safety of their households.